Working Safely with Ladders – Using Ladder Accessories Part Two
Ladder accidents frequently happen when the ladder is not set properly. 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. Unfortunately, “proper usage” involves a level, stable surface to set the ladder on, or structure to set the ladder against – with a proper place to tie off the ladder, etc. In the real world, this is rarely the case, and rather than set the ladder improperly, consider using ladder accessories for your situation. Here are some more of my favorites.
First, for extension and straight ladders, let’s talk about climbing on and off the top of the ladder at the landing. One of the more dangerous aspects of climbing on and off the ladder is stepping around the ladder’s siderails. This frequently the point at which a workers can lose their balance, or trip. Also, in situations where the ladder is gaining access to an area protected with guardrails, there has to be an opening in the guardrail system to allow a workers access around the aiderail. It also becomes difficult to hold onto both ladder siderails simultaneously. For these reasons, for job-built ladders, ANSI specifies that the top few rungs (or cleats in this case) be left out to allow for easier access directly through the ladder. Naturally, this cannot be accomplished for manufactured ladders – that is, until now. The Safe T ladder extension handles solve this problem. These aluminum extension handles easily clamp onto each siderail allowing the worker to climb up and easily pass through at the landing level. A high quality product, but relatively expensive (aro $300 pr.).
The second ladder accessory is the levelok ladder strap. One of the most common problems in properly setting an extension ladder is securing it to the structure. This ladder strap comes with it’s own bag, and the straps hook onto the ladder siderails. When you set the ladder (having another person holding the base), you place the straps approximately 4-5 rungs below the top, wrapping it around the pole or structure. This is a muich safer way than bunjee cords, which cause a substantial number of eye injuries. Again, a very simple to use and not too an expensive (aro $45 ea.) ladder accessory.
Remember, ladder accessories can help you transport, set, secure and use your ladder more effectively.