Sfaety first is the number one motto of everybody. When in your workplace, using a ladder is one of the inevitable things to do. To keep you and your employees safe while in the workplace, safety ladder use must be practiced. Safety use of ladder can be done with the following easy to follow steps below
Proper Procedure
Practice proper procedure when using your laptop. Do not forget to read the manufacturer’s manual especially if you are using it for the first time.
Avoid using the ladder when you are sleepy or ill, if under medication, and during bad weather conditions.
Prevent using ladders if near or along doorways or in high traffic areas. If the need of using a ladder in doorways, always makes sure that the door is locked. A fiberglass or wood ladder is best for use rather than metal ladders in areas near power lines or other electricity sources to prevent electrical shock hazard.
Inspection
Before using a ladder, make sure that a thorough inspection was made. One must make sure that the ladder’s rug is firm and unbroken. Give time to inspect if braces are fastened securely as well as the ropes, pulleys, and other moving parts. If during the inspection a defect is observed, it should be repaired immediately. If the defect is impossible for repair, it should not be used anymore.
Proper Setup
Proper ladder setup is another important thing to keep in mind to be safe while using a ladder. Always see to it that the ladder’s feet is positioned on the ground solidly. Do not forget to use a board under the legs if you are going to raise your ladder in soft or uneven area for it to have proper support. Before finally using it, test the ladder to make sure that it is secure, firm and stable. For your ladder to be stable, place you ladder against the wall or any other support and make sure that it is placed on a 75-degree angle and the steps are spread fully and locked into position.
How to climb
Knowing the proper way of climbing the ladder is another way of keeping you safe while at your workplace. Before climbing the ladder, make sure that you have your hands, shoes, and ladder rungs dry. Ask a second person to hold the bottom of the ladder and help keep others from disturbing the ladder. Always practice the three-point grip or the two hands and one foot or one hand and two feet while climbing the ladder. Concentrate while climbing by avoiding from distraction that will keep you away from the ladder.
When climbing, do it slowly and keep you weight centered between side rails and never lean back and stand on the top two rungs of a stepladder or on the top four rungs of an extension ladder.
Following the mentions steps above will keep you free from harm while using a ladder in your workplace.