August is Ladder Safety Month

8/3/2018 (Permalink)

Don't be this guy!

August is Ladder Safety Month

SERVPRO of Rockingham and Augusta Counties wants to remind you as the summer comes to an end, people are having work done in preparation for the fall. From paint jobs to cleaning gutters, one should pay careful attention to the following ladder safety tips.

• Be sure to inspect the ladder before using it. Check for broken or missing parts as well as grease, oil, or other substances that could result in a slippery surface.
• To ensure stability, place the ladder on firm, even ground. Make sure it is not near any electrical wires or power lines.
• When setting up the ladder, use the 4-to-1 rule. For example: if the ladder touches the wall 16 feet above the ground, the base of the ladder should be 4 feet away from the wall.
• Before climbing the ladder, make sure the braces are fully extended and locked in place.
• Never climb higher than the third rung from the top of the ladder.
• Never try to “jog” or “walk” the ladder to a new location. Instead, descend and relocate the ladder.
• When working from a ladder, stay centered and do not reach more than a comfortable arm’s length away. Keep your feet braced against the side rails and lean slightly forward.
• Always face the ladder when ascending or descending.
• Whenever possible, work within sight of someone who could provide assistance in case of an emergency.

Ladder climbing takes place in almost every home and workplace. Falls off of ladders are one of the top causes of fatal work-related injuries in the construction industry, as well as the third leading cause in all industries combined.