Ladder Safety Compliance

Document Number: [SWP-NUMBER]

Revision Date: [DATE]

Next Review Date: [NEXT REVIEW DATE]

Department: [DEPARTMENT NAME]

1. Scope

This safe work procedure (SWP) outlines the necessary safety requirements for the use of ladders in the workplace. It applies to all employees, contractors, and visitors who use ladders for any purpose. The goal of this SWP is to prevent falls and injuries related to ladder use by ensuring compliance with WorkSafeBC regulations and industry best practices.

2. Definitions

Ladder A structure consisting of two side rails joined by steps or rungs, used for climbing up or down. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Equipment worn to minimize exposure to hazards, such as hard hats, safety glasses, and safety shoes. WorkSafeBC The Workers' Compensation Board of British Columbia, responsible for promoting workplace safety and health.

3. Responsibilities

3.1 Supervisors

Ensure that all workers are adequately trained in ladder safety and the proper use of ladders.
Provide workers with the appropriate ladders and personal protective equipment (PPE) for the task.
Ensure that ladders are inspected regularly and maintained in good working condition.
Enforce the requirements of this safe work procedure.

3.2 Workers

Inspect ladders before each use and report any defects to the supervisor.
Use ladders only for their intended purpose and within their load capacity.
Follow the instructions and training provided for safe ladder use.
Use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) when using ladders.

4. Potential Hazards and Risks

Hazard	Risk	Control Measures
Falls from height	Serious injury or death	Ensure ladders are placed on a stable surface. Use the 3-point contact rule. Do not overreach. Use fall protection equipment when required.
Ladder instability	Ladder collapse, leading to falls and injuries	Ensure the ladder is secured properly at the top and bottom. Use a ladder with appropriate duty rating for the task. Avoid using ladders in windy conditions.
Electrical hazards	Electrocution	Use non-conductive ladders when working near electrical sources. Maintain a safe distance from overhead power lines.
Overloading	Ladder failure and falls	Do not exceed the ladder's maximum load capacity. Consider the weight of the user, tools, and materials.
Damaged ladder	Ladder collapse and injury	Inspect ladders before each use. Remove damaged ladders from service immediately.
Improper ladder selection	Falls due to inadequate ladder height or type	Select the right type and size of ladder for the job. Ensure the ladder is long enough to safely reach the work area.
Slipping	Loss of balance and falls	Wear slip-resistant footwear. Clean rungs and steps to remove slippery substances.

5. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Hard Hat: Provides head protection from falling objects or bumping into structures.
Safety Glasses: Protects eyes from dust, debris, or chemical splashes.
Safety Shoes: Provides foot protection from slips, trips, and falling objects. Must have slip-resistant soles.
Gloves: Protects hands from abrasions, cuts, and chemical exposure.

6. Equipment and Tools

Ladder (appropriate type and size): Ensure the ladder is suitable for the task, with the correct height and load rating.
Ladder levelers (if needed): Used to stabilize ladders on uneven surfaces.

8. Safe Work Procedure Steps

1. Pre-Use Inspection: Inspect the ladder for any visible defects, such as damaged rungs, loose screws, or cracks. Check the ladder's duty rating to ensure it is appropriate for the intended load.
2. Ladder Placement: Place the ladder on a firm, level surface. Ensure the ladder's feet are stable and will not slip. If the surface is uneven, use ladder levelers.
3. Angle Setup: Set up the ladder at the correct angle (approximately 75 degrees). A good rule of thumb is the 4:1 rule (for every four feet of height, the base of the ladder should be one foot away from the wall).
4. Securing the Ladder: Secure the ladder at the top and/or bottom to prevent it from slipping or falling. Use rope, straps, or ladder stabilizers.
5. Three-Point Contact: Maintain three points of contact with the ladder at all times (two hands and one foot, or two feet and one hand).
6. Climbing: Climb slowly and carefully, avoiding sudden movements. Do not carry heavy or bulky objects while climbing.
7. Working at Height: Avoid overreaching. Reposition the ladder as needed to stay within easy reach of the work area.
8. Descending: Descend slowly, maintaining three points of contact. Face the ladder while descending.
9. Post-Use Inspection: After use, inspect the ladder again for any damage that may have occurred during use. Clean the ladder and store it properly.

9. Precautions and Safety Measures

Never use a ladder in front of a closed door that could be opened. Block the door open or use a warning sign.
Do not use ladders in windy or stormy conditions.
Always wear appropriate footwear with slip-resistant soles.
Ensure the work area around the ladder is well-lit.
Do not use a ladder as a temporary support for other objects.

10. Emergency Procedures

10.1 General Emergency Response

In the event of a fall: Assess the injured person and provide first aid. Call for emergency medical assistance if needed. Secure the area to prevent further incidents. Investigate the cause of the fall and implement corrective actions.

10.2 Specific Emergency Scenarios

Electrical Contact: If a ladder comes into contact with an electrical source.: Immediately call emergency services. Do not touch the ladder or the person until the power is shut off. Keep others away from the area.
Ladder Collapse: If a ladder collapses while in use.: Assess the injured person and provide first aid. Call for emergency medical assistance if needed. Secure the area and remove the damaged ladder from service. Investigate the cause of the collapse.

10.3 Emergency Contact Information

In case of an emergency, contact the supervisor immediately. For serious injuries, call 911.

11. Incident Reporting and Investigation

All incidents, including near misses, must be reported to the supervisor immediately. A written incident report must be completed within 24 hours.

A thorough investigation will be conducted to determine the root cause of the incident. Corrective actions will be implemented to prevent recurrence.

Approved by: [NAME AND POSITION]

Date: [APPROVAL DATE]