04 Oct How to Choose a Ladder

How to Choose the Right Ladder

Choosing the correct ladder is an important part of working safely at heights. The wrong ladder may be too short, unable to support the required load, unsuitable for the work environment, or designed for a different type of task.

Before starting work, evaluate the height, task, load, work environment, and ladder type needed to perform the job safely.

Choose the Right Type of Ladder

Select a ladder designed for the work being performed.

• Step stools – Suitable for low-level work where only a small amount of additional height is needed.
• Stepladders – Self-supporting and appropriate where a vertical surface is not available for supporting a ladder.
• Straight and extension ladders – Used for access to higher elevations and must be properly supported and positioned.
• Platform ladders – Provide a designated standing platform for tasks requiring employees to work from an elevated position.
• Special-purpose ladders – Tripod, trestle, articulated, and other specialty ladders may be appropriate for specific applications but shall be used only as designed by the manufacturer.

Never improvise by placing a ladder on boxes, scaffolds, barrels, or other objects to obtain additional height.

Select the Proper Length

The ladder must be long enough to perform the work without standing on prohibited steps or rungs, overreaching, or otherwise using the ladder improperly.

When a portable ladder is used to access an upper landing surface, the side rails shall extend at least 3 feet above the upper landing surface. When this is not possible because of the ladder’s length, the ladder shall be secured at the top and a grasping device, such as a grabrail, shall be provided.

Never stand on the top or top step of a stepladder unless the ladder is specifically designed by the manufacturer for that purpose.

Check the Duty Rating

Every ladder has a maximum intended load. The total load includes the employee plus tools, equipment, materials, and anything else being carried or supported by the ladder.

Common ANSI ladder duty ratings include:

For construction work, select a ladder appropriate for the industrial application and anticipated load. Never exceed the manufacturer’s rated capacity.

Consider Electrical Hazards

Ladder material is especially important when electrical hazards are present.

• Use a nonconductive ladder, such as an appropriate fiberglass ladder, where the employee or ladder could contact exposed energized electrical equipment.
• Never use an aluminum or other conductive ladder where contact with energized electrical equipment is possible.
• Keep ladders and employees the required distance from overhead power lines.

Fiberglass ladders should still be kept clean, dry, and in good condition because contamination or damage may affect their protective properties.

Consider the Work Being Performed

A ladder is primarily a means of access and a limited work platform. Before choosing one, consider:

• How long the employee will work at elevation.
• Whether the task requires both hands.
• Whether significant pushing, pulling, or sideways force will be applied.
• Whether heavy or awkward materials must be handled.
• Whether the employee would need to overreach.
• Whether frequent repositioning will be necessary.

For some tasks, scaffolding, an aerial lift, or another properly designed work platform may be safer than a portable ladder.

Choose Accessories Carefully

Use only ladder accessories and attachments approved or recommended by the ladder manufacturer.

Depending on the application, these may include:

• Stabilizers or stand-offs.
• Leveling devices.
• Tool trays or holders.
• Appropriate footing devices.

Never make unauthorized modifications to a ladder or use makeshift accessories.

Inspect Before Use

Choosing the right ladder is only the first step. Before each use, inspect it for conditions such as:

• Cracked, bent, split, or missing rungs or steps.
• Damaged rails.
• Loose hardware or fasteners.
• Defective spreaders or locking devices.
• Damaged or missing feet.
• Oil, grease, mud, or other slippery substances.
• Corrosion or deterioration.
• Other damage that could affect safe use.

A defective ladder shall be tagged or marked and removed from service until properly repaired or destroyed.

Remember

Before climbing, ask yourself: Is this the right type, length, material, and capacity ladder for the job? Never make a ladder “work” when it is not suitable for the task. Choose the right ladder before you climb.