PORTABLE LADDER SAFETY PROGRAM

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1 PORTABLE LADDER SAFETY PROGRAM 1.0 PURPOSE The Indiana University (IU) Ladder Safety Program is to: 1.1 Make employees aware of hazards associated with use of portable ladders 1.2 Provide guidelines for proper use of portable ladders 1.3 Reduce or eliminate injuries caused by improper ladder use 1.4 Comply with the Indiana Occupational Safety and Health Act (IOSHA) and other applicable state and federal regulations 2.0 REGULATORY REFERENCES IOSHA 29 CFR Portable Wood Ladders IOSHA 29 CFR Portable Metal Ladders 3.0 SCOPE This document is intended as a master document that addresses regulatory requirements. Details specific to implementing the program for a specific department or job can be added by the user in the appendices of the program. This program is applicable to all Indiana University employees who utilize portable ladders as a part of their work. This program does not apply to fixed ladders or scaffolds which are covered by other IOSHA regulations. This program also does not address the construction of ladders. Ladder construction must meet the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) standards and custom-made ladders are prohibited in the workplace by IOSHA. 4.0 ELEMENTS OF THE PROGRAM 4.1 Ladder Selection Ladder selection includes type of ladder (step ladder, straight ladder, extension ladder, etc.), the material the ladder is constructed from (typically, fiberglass, aluminum or wood), and the useable height of the ladder. Other factors may need to be considered for specialty ladders, such as rolling warehouse ladders, arborist ladders, etc. Criteria to be used in selecting a ladder for a given job include: Working environment Amount of weight to be supported by the ladder (loads) Specific tasks to be done Ladders to be used near electrical wires or other hazardous sources of electricity shall not be made of aluminum or other metal or conducting material. Ladders are classified by the amount of weight that can be accommodated (load). Load classifications are: Type I-AA: Heavy Duty, up to 350 pounds Type I-A: Heavy Duty, up to 300 pounds Type I: Heavy Duty, up to 250 pounds Page 1

2 Type II: Type III: Medium Duty, up to 225 pounds Light Duty, up to 200 pounds All ladders must have a label indicating the load rating. When determining the load capability required, the weight of the person using the ladder PLUS all equipment and supplies carried on the ladder must be considered. The task or job to be done affects ladder choice also. Step ladders may not be taller than 20 feet, so they would be excluded for heights greater than this. 4.2 Ladder Inspection Prior to each use, all ladders must be inspected. For wood ladders, all parts must be free of splinters and sharp edges, free from shake, wane, compression failure, decay or other irregularities. For metal ladders, the ladder must be free of structural defects, sharp edges, burrs, and not corroded. All ladders must have all rungs or steps in place and secure. There shall be no evidence of cracking, splitting, or warping. Ladders which have been painted or covered with an opaque coating material cannot be used, as the covering can camouflage structural faults in the ladder. For extension ladders, hooks and locks must be in good working condition. Ropes, if used, must also be in good working condition. Any ladder found not be in good working condition shall immediately be removed from service until repaired or replaced. 4.3 Ladder Use Solid footing, solid surface support, and a solid resting place are required for all ladders. Ladder levels may be used and a solid support surface (such as a sheet of plywood) may be used so long as a flat, solid surface able to withstand the ladder and its load result. Non-slip ladder feet are recommended. Ladders shall not be placed on boxes, barrels, or other unstable surfaces. The area around the ladder must be kept clear. In case of a fall, this prevents additional injuries. Whenever possible, the ladder should be fastened to a solid support to prevent slippage. Extension ladders should be extended only per manufacturer s directions and securely locked. No one is allowed above the limit step, typically the third step from the top. Ladders are designed for use by only a single person. No more than one person should ever be on the same ladder. Page 2

3 Rungs and steps should not be used as shelves for equipment or supplies. If the ladder is equipped with a supply shelf, that may be used. Slip-resistant shoes are strongly recommended. Work with both feet on the same rung. Do not lean sideways. Always hold onto the ladder with one hand. When straight ladders or extension ladders are placed against a vertical surface, the angle shall be a ratio of one foot horizontal for every four foot vertical. When straight ladders or extension ladders are used to access roofs or similar structures, the ladder must extend at least three feet above the roof surface. Ladders shall not be used for other than their intended use. 4.4 Ladder Maintenance Maintenance should be done per the manufacturer s instructions. Ladders should not be painted or coated with an opaque coating that can hide structural defects. Fiberglass ladders may be coated with lacquer or a clear marine varnish to minimize UV damage. Ladders should be stored in a dry, well-ventilated area. Ladders should never be stored outdoors. Ladders must be stored in a position and location that does not cause warping. Ladders must NOT be used as shelves to store other objects. 5.0 ADMINISTRATION/COMPLIANCE/RESPONSIBILITIES The Office of Environmental, Health, and Safety Management (EHS) is responsible for the written. It is the responsibility of individual departments, via the department heads and supervisors, to ensure that employees are provided appropriate ladders for each job. Ladders must be manufactured per the IOSHA regulations and maintained in good working condition. Department heads and supervisors are responsible for removing damaged or worn ladders from service. Employee responsibilities include routine inspection of ladders, proper use of ladders, and care and maintenance of ladders. Employees must report damage or excess wear of ladders to the supervisor. Employees must also report any accidents, falls, etc. with the ladders to supervisors. Page 3

4 Failure to provide, inspect, use or maintain ladders properly may result in disciplinary action. 6.0 TRAINING AND RECORDKEEPING Supervisors will provide training in basic ladder use and safety to employees. EHS is available to provide ladder safety training upon request. Page 4

5 APPENDIX A: DEFINITIONS Indiana University Office of Environmental, Health, and Safety Management Angle: The ratio of the height of a ladder to its distance from a vertical surface, typically one foot horizontal to four feet vertical. Load: The total amount of weight a given ladder is designed to hold. Extension Ladder: A straight ladder in two or more sections with interlocks holding the sections together. Rungs: The steps or rails on which the user places his/her feet while climbing and using the ladder. Straight Ladder: A ladder comprised of two side rails with rungs or steps connecting the side rails. No additional support is provided by ancillary structure. Step Ladder: Typically, a ladder with front and back sections, held together by a metal spreader or locking device to securely hold the sections in a stable configuration. Page 5

6 APPENDIX B: SPECIFIC PROCEDURES This section may be used by departments or groups to document procedures specific to that department or to a given ladder or job. Page 6

7 APPENDIX C: FORMS, LINKS TO FORMS, (if applicable) APPENDIX D: ADDITIONAL REFERENCES AND RELATED PROGRAMS IOSHA 29 CFR Selection and Use of Work Practices for Electrical Safety IOSHA Publication R-2003 Stairways and ladders, A Guide to IOSHA Rules Page 7