Six Essential Rules for Ladder Safety

Ladders are a necessary tool in pest control, but they can also pose significant safety risks if not used properly. Every year, thousands of ladder-related injuries occur due to improper usage, lack of inspection, or failure to follow basic safety guidelines. By following these six essential rules, you can minimize the risk of falls and injuries while working with ladders.

1. Assess Your Readiness for Ladder Use

Before stepping onto a ladder, evaluate your physical condition to ensure safe use. Consider your strength, balance, and vision, and avoid using a ladder if you feel dizzy or unsteady.

Additionally, wear appropriate footwear with non-slip soles and securely tied laces. Avoid loose clothing or secure it to prevent it from catching on the ladder while climbing.

2. Choose the Right Ladder for the Job

Selecting the correct ladder is crucial for safety. Check the ladder’s load capacity to ensure it can support your weight along with any tools and materials you’ll be carrying. The ladder should also be long enough for safe working conditions - never work from the top three feet of an extension ladder.

3. Inspect the Ladder Before and After Use

Conduct a thorough inspection before and after each use.

Before Use:

• Ensure the ladder is stable and positioned securely.
• Check that all screws, bolts, and hinges are tight.
• Look for any loose or damaged rungs, steps, side rails, or supports.
• Remove dirt, grease, or paint that could cause slips.
• Keep ladders away from electrical wiring.
• Do not use damaged ladders - remove them from service immediately.

After Use:

• Check for any new structural damage.
• Inspect steps, side rails, rungs, and supports for bends or loose fasteners.
• Ensure the ladder is stable before storing it.

4. Set Up the Ladder Correctly

Proper placement is key to stability and safety. When using a portable ladder, place it on a level, non-slip surface. In high-traffic areas, barricade the base of the ladder to prevent accidental bumps or movement. Secure or block any nearby doors that open toward the ladder.

For straight ladders, use the four-to-one rule: place the base 1 ft. away from the wall for every 4 ft. of ladder height. If accessing a roof or platform, ensure the ladder extends at least 3 ft. above the landing surface and secure it at the top.

5. Climb and Descend with Caution

Always face the ladder and stay near the middle while climbing or descending. Maintain three points of contact - two hands and one foot, or two feet and one hand - always. Avoid carrying tools in your hands; instead, use a tool belt or hoist to transport materials. Be mindful of overhead power lines before setting up or climbing the ladder.

6. Follow Safety Best Practices

• Read and follow all manufacturer instructions and safety labels.
• Always check for overhead power lines before handling or climbing a ladder.
• Stay near the middle of the ladder and never lean outside the side rails.
• Keep the ladder and surrounding area free of clutter.
• Never use a ladder for unintended purposes, such as a horizontal platform.
• Do not carry loads that prevent maintaining three points of contact.
• Never stand on the top step or cap of a ladder.
• Only place ladders on stable, level, and non-slippery surfaces.
• Never move a ladder while someone is on it.

By following these six rules, you can significantly reduce the risk of ladder-related injuries and ensure a safer work environment. Prioritize safety and use proper ladder techniques for every job.

PestSure – Your Partner in Safety

Founded in 1980, PestSure is the only insurance and risk management provider that is 100 percent dedicated to the pest management industry. It offers industry professionals a full suite of insurance, risk management, and safety training and education offerings.

PestSure provides insurance, safety and risk management consulting to pest management companies representing $2 billion in revenue, $750 million in payroll and more than 16,500 service vehicles. The program is administered by Alliant Insurance Services.

Call 888.984.3813 or visit our contact page for more information.