Working Safely with Ladders – Using the Correct Ladder Rating
One of the most common misuses of straight, extension and stepladders is not using the coorect rated ladder for the job. OSHA safety regulations, contractor safety programs, and ladder manufacturers alike do not require fall protection systems for portable ladders. This is primarily due to the fact that while ladder use is certainly involved in many accidents, it’s simply proper usage of the ladders that will provide a safe working environment. For instance, the weight rating of a ladder is critical to ladder safety. If the weight rating of an extension ladder is insufficient (see figure 1), there is more outward lateral pressure on the feet than the ladder was designed for, and more pressure on the rungs and siderails, and of course, more pressure on the extension latches. What this means to you is that the ladder is much more likely to be damaged, fail or collapse than you than you realize. Ladder engineers design their ladders based on the anticipated load.
One of the most common problems is simply not recognizing how much you weigh! Ladder ratings are based on your total weight. This not only includes your body weight plus clothes, but also your tools, toolbelt, equipment, and certainly any materials you may handle even temporarily. Some stepladders are even designed for two people – one on each side of the stepladder, so in these cases the toal weight is even more important.
So, what is the correct weight rating for stepladder, straight or extension ladder? Well, there are five common weight ratings among OSHA and the ladder manufacturers. First, and the lowest rated are the type 3 ladders, or light duty, rated at 200 lbs. These ladders are not allowed in any workplace, they are simply not sturdy enough for regular use. The next lowest rating, a Type 2 rated ladder, or medium duty is rated at 225 lbs., and is only suitable in light duty commercial applications in a fixed place of business (what’s called general industry).
The next three types, the Type 1, 1A, and 1AA ladders all are suitable in both general industry and construction use. Their ratings are 250 lbs. (heavy duty), 300 (extra heavy duty), and 375 lbs. (special duty) respectively. Since all of these ladders may be used without restriction in all workplaces, it’s still important to determine the total anticipated weight and only select a ladder with an equal or preferably greater weight rating.
Remember, using a ladder with the correct weight rating will prevent damage to the ladder and even collapse of the ladder with normal use.