Ladder Safety and Fall Protection

Date: 2025-08-06

Duration: [DURATION] minutes

Presenter: [PRESENTER NAME]

Location: [LOCATION]

Objective

The objective of this toolbox talk is to ensure all employees understand and adhere to the safety requirements for ladder use, including inspection, safe climbing techniques, and fall protection, to minimize the risk of falls and related injuries.

Introduction

This toolbox talk covers the safety requirements for using ladders in the workplace. It emphasizes proper inspection procedures, safe climbing practices, and the use of appropriate fall protection measures to prevent injuries.

Key Points

• Ladder Inspection: Ladders must be inspected before each use for any visible defects such as broken or missing rungs, damaged side rails, or loose components. Defective ladders must be immediately tagged as "Dangerous: Do Not Use" and removed from service until repaired or replaced.
• Safe Climbing Practices: Always maintain three points of contact when climbing a ladder (two hands and one foot, or two feet and one hand). Face the ladder and avoid carrying heavy objects that could cause you to lose balance.
• Ladder Setup: Ensure ladders are placed on a stable and level surface. If the surface is slippery, secure the ladder to prevent it from sliding. When using an extension ladder, ensure it extends at least 3 feet above the upper landing surface.
• Fall Protection: When working at heights of 3 metres (10 feet) or more, use a personal fall arrest system (PFAS). This includes a full-body harness, lanyard, and a secure anchorage point.
• Training: Training programs should cover hazard recognition, ladder erection, maintenance, proper use, load capacities, and relevant safety regulations.

Hazard Identification

• Using a ladder with structural defects (e.g., broken rungs, split rails).: Ladder collapse, leading to falls and serious injuries.
• Improper ladder setup (e.g., unstable base, incorrect angle).: Ladder tipping or sliding, resulting in falls.
• Failure to use fall protection when working at heights.: Serious injury or fatality from falls.
• Carrying heavy objects while climbing.: Loss of balance and falls.
• Overreaching while on a ladder.: Loss of balance and falls.

Control Measures

• Implement a ladder inspection program to ensure all ladders are inspected before each use.: Train employees to identify defects and remove damaged ladders from service. Use a tagging system to clearly mark unsafe ladders.
• Ensure proper ladder setup by providing training on stable base placement and securing techniques.: Use ladder levelers on uneven surfaces and tie off the ladder at the top when necessary.
• Enforce the use of personal fall arrest systems (PFAS) when working at heights of 3 metres (10 feet) or more.: Provide appropriate harnesses, lanyards, and anchorage points. Inspect PFAS equipment regularly.
• Prohibit carrying heavy or bulky items while climbing ladders.: Use a hoist or other means to lift materials to the work area.
• Provide comprehensive training on ladder safety, including hazard recognition, safe climbing techniques, and fall protection measures.: Conduct regular refresher training and document all training activities.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Requirements

• Full-Body Harness: Inspect the harness for any signs of damage, wear, or defects before each use. Ensure it fits snugly but allows for freedom of movement.
• Eye Protection: Use safety glasses or goggles to protect your eyes from dust, debris, or other hazards while working on a ladder.
• Work Boots: Wear work boots with slip-resistant soles to provide good traction on ladder rungs and the ground.
• Gloves: Use gloves to improve grip and protect hands from cuts, abrasions, and other hazards.

Group Discussion

Discuss the following questions:

1. What are the most common ladder-related hazards you have observed in the workplace?
2. What steps can we take to improve our ladder safety practices?
3. How can we ensure that all employees are properly trained on ladder safety?

Emergency Procedures

1. In the event of a fall, immediately call for medical assistance and provide first aid as needed.
2. If a ladder is damaged or involved in an incident, remove it from service and tag it appropriately.
3. Report all incidents and near misses to the supervisor for investigation and corrective action.

Summary

Recap of main points:

• Always inspect ladders before use and remove any defective ladders from service.
• Use safe climbing practices, including maintaining three points of contact and avoiding carrying heavy objects.
• Ensure proper ladder setup and use fall protection when working at heights.
• Participate in ladder safety training and follow all safety guidelines.

Report all hazards, near-misses, and incidents to your supervisor immediately.

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