subject: Simple Techniques to Prevent Ladder Accidents [print this page] Copyright (c) 2010 Nadine DavisFalls from ladders account for a significant number of the injuries or deaths reported to occupation health and safety authorities throughout the country each year. Most workplaces have now come to terms with the rules regarding ladder safety, although some incidents are still occurring. Unfortunately, males at or nearing retirement age are in the highest risk category for this type of accident which mostly happens when undertaking home repairs or renovations, or during gardening activities. This is consistent with other OH&S findings which name inexperience (typically young people no longer in the workforce) and complacency (people over 50 who know the rules but get slack) as significant risk factors.Discovering a ladder fault while it is in use is not ideal. Rather a quick check of a ladder should be undertaken before each use to ensure that it is in good working condition with no warping or rust, no loose or cracked rungs or hinges; that it is fitted with non-slip safety feet in good condition, and that the ladder's height is right for the job at hand.The following outline simple actions to help make ladder usage safer:=> Set the ladder up on dry, firm and level ground.=> Where possible, make sure all locks and braces are engaged - open a step ladder fully so it locks into place.=> Check that the ladder is clear of electrical wiring and powerlines.=> Locate the ladder in accordance with relevant safety standards.=> Footwear should be well fitting, enclosed and slip-resistant.=> Climb using both hands - place tools in a tool belt to keep both hands free.=> Stay in the centre of the ladder when climbing.=> Secure the top of an extension ladder into position before starting work.Serious falls from ladders will generally occur when short cuts are used. Short cuts are never a good idea. The most common scenario is over-reaching, while still standing on the ladder. Another common and dangerous mistake is to let the ladder go in order to use both hands for the task being worked on. If the operator loses their footing, there's no soft landing.Although it takes a little more time to apply safety techniques when using a ladder, these techniques can assist in eliminating the risk of a fall.Ladder safety is not difficult, but like so many preventable accidents, it does depend on having the right attitude to safety. Just by taking some care, following simple safety guidelines and using your common sense, these unfortunate and painful situations can be massively reduced.
