Safe Work Procedure: Ladder Safety

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 safe practices for the selection, inspection, and use of ladders in [workplace/project name]. It applies to all employees, contractors, and visitors who use ladders for any purpose within the [company name] premises. This procedure aims to prevent falls and injuries associated with ladder use. This SWP covers the use of portable ladders, including step ladders and extension ladders. It does not cover the use of scaffolding or fixed ladders, which are addressed in separate procedures.

2. Definitions

Ladder: A device with rungs or steps between two side rails, used for climbing up or down.

Step Ladder: A self-supporting portable ladder, nonadjustable in length, with flat steps and a hinged back.

Extension Ladder: A non-self-supporting portable ladder adjustable in length, consisting of two or more sections traveling in guides or brackets arranged to permit length adjustment.

Competent Person: An individual who is capable of identifying existing and predictable hazards in the surroundings or working conditions which are unsanitary, hazardous, or dangerous to employees, and who has authorization to take prompt corrective measures to eliminate them [1], [2], [3].

3. Responsibilities

3.1 Supervisors

Ensure that all workers who use ladders are trained and competent in their safe use.
Provide the appropriate type and size of ladder for the task.
Ensure ladders are inspected regularly and maintained in good condition.
Enforce the requirements of this SWP.

3.2 Workers

Inspect ladders before each use and report any defects to the supervisor.
Use ladders only for their intended purpose.
Follow the safe work procedures outlined in this SWP.
Use the correct PPE as required.

3.3 Health and Safety Representative

Assist in the development and review of this SWP.
Conduct regular workplace inspections to monitor compliance with this SWP.
Investigate incidents involving ladders and recommend corrective actions.

4. Potential Hazards and Risks

Hazard	Risk	Control Measures
Falls from height	Serious injury or death	Select the correct ladder for the task. Ensure the ladder is placed on a stable, level surface. Use the 3-point contact rule. Do not overreach.
Ladder collapse	Injury from falling	Inspect the ladder before use for any damage or defects. Do not exceed the ladder's maximum load capacity.
Electrical hazards	Electrocution	Keep ladders away from overhead power lines and electrical equipment. Use a fiberglass ladder when working near electricity.
Slipping on ladder rungs	Bruises, sprains, or fractures	Wear slip-resistant footwear. Clean any mud, snow, or debris from ladder rungs.
Ladder tip over	Injury from falling	Secure the ladder at the top or bottom. Use a ladder stabilizer.

5. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Always use the proper PPE for the task to minimize risk of injury.

Hard hat - Protects the head from falling objects or bumping into structures.
Safety glasses - Protects eyes from dust or debris [3], [2].
Work gloves - Improves grip and protects hands from cuts, abrasions, and contact with potentially harmful materials [3], [2].
Slip-resistant footwear - Provides traction and stability on ladder rungs.
High-visibility clothing - Increases visibility in areas with moving equipment or poor lighting.

Inspect all PPE before use to ensure it is in good condition and fits properly. Replace any damaged or defective PPE immediately.

6. Equipment and Tools

Always use the proper equipment and tools for the task to minimize risk of injury.

Step Ladder - Used for reaching moderate heights when a self-supporting ladder is needed.
Extension Ladder - Used for reaching greater heights; must be leaned against a wall or other support.
Ladder Stabilizer - Provides a wider base for the ladder and prevents it from tipping.
Tool Belt - Keeps tools readily accessible and prevents the need to carry them while climbing.
Level - Used to ensure the ladder is placed on a level surface.

Inspect all equipment and tools before use to ensure they are in good working condition. Remove any damaged or defective equipment from service.

7. Pre-Job Requirements

7.1 Training and Competency

All workers who use ladders must receive training on the following:

Ladder selection, inspection, and safe use.
Hazard identification and control measures.
Proper use of PPE.

7.2 Pre-Job Briefing

Before starting any work involving ladders, conduct a pre-job briefing to discuss:

The task to be performed.
Potential hazards and risks.
Safe work procedures.
Emergency procedures.

7.3 Work Area Preparation

Ensure the work area is clear of obstructions and hazards.
Identify any overhead power lines or electrical equipment.
Barricade the area around the base of the ladder to prevent unauthorized access.

8. Safe Work Procedure Steps

8.1 Ladder Selection and Inspection

Select the appropriate type and size of ladder for the task. Ensure the ladder is long enough to reach the work area without overreaching.
Inspect the ladder before each use for any damage or defects, such as cracked or broken rungs, loose hinges, or damaged side rails. Remove any defective ladders from service.
Ensure the ladder's duty rating (load capacity) is sufficient for the weight of the worker and any tools or materials they will be carrying.

8.2 Ladder Placement and Setup

Place the ladder on a stable, level surface. Use a level to ensure the ladder is properly aligned.
For extension ladders, set the ladder at the correct angle (75 degrees). A good rule of thumb is to place the base of the ladder one-quarter of the working length of the ladder away from the wall or support.
Ensure the ladder extends at least 3 feet (0.9 meters) above the upper landing surface.
Secure the ladder at the top or bottom to prevent it from slipping or tipping. Use a ladder stabilizer or have another worker hold the ladder.

8.3 Safe Climbing and Working

Maintain 3-point contact with the ladder at all times (two hands and one foot, or two feet and one hand).
Climb and descend the ladder facing the rungs.
Do not carry tools or materials while climbing. Use a tool belt or hoist to raise and lower items.
Do not overreach or lean away from the ladder. Reposition the ladder as needed.
Do not stand on the top two rungs of a step ladder or the top three rungs of an extension ladder.

9. Precautions and Safety Measures

Never use a ladder in windy or stormy conditions. The ladder could be blown over, causing a fall.
Do not use ladders as a temporary support or platform. Ladders are designed for climbing, not for supporting weight over an extended period.
Keep the area around the base of the ladder clear of obstructions. This prevents tripping hazards and ensures a stable base for the ladder.
Do not leave a ladder unattended. Someone could climb it without proper training or precautions.
Always maintain awareness of your surroundings. Watch out for moving equipment, overhead hazards, and other potential dangers.

10. Emergency Procedures

10.1 General Emergency Response

In the event of an incident, immediately assess the situation and provide first aid if necessary.
Call for emergency assistance if required.
Secure the area to prevent further incidents.

10.2 Specific Emergency Scenarios

Fall from ladder: Stabilize the injured person and call for medical assistance. Do not move the person unless there is an immediate danger.
Electrical contact: De-energize the circuit if possible. Use a non-conductive object to separate the person from the electrical source. Call for medical assistance.
Ladder collapse: Evacuate the area and inspect the ladder to determine the cause of the collapse. Remove the ladder from service.

10.3 Emergency Contact Information

Emergency Services: 911
[Company Safety Department]: [PHONE NUMBER]
[Project Supervisor]: [PHONE NUMBER]

11. Incident Reporting and Investigation

All incidents, near-misses, and hazards must be reported to the supervisor immediately. An investigation will be conducted to determine the root cause of the incident and implement corrective actions to prevent recurrence.

Approved by: [NAME AND POSITION] Date: [APPROVAL DATE]