LADDER SAFETY: SELECTING THE CORRECT LADDER FOR THE JOB
There are many types of ladders, ranging from simple wooden job-built ladders to specialty ladders used for specific jobs. Ladders may be made of timber, aluminum or fiberglass.
There are three main types of ladders used in the construction industry:
- Extension
- Step
- Multipurpose
Keep the following in mind when choosing the right ladder for your job:
- For indoor use, stepladders or multipurpose ladders are usually recommended. For outdoor work, taller stepladders, multipurpose or extension ladders are generally more appropriate.
- Do not use aluminum ladders when working around electricity. Chose a ladder made out of non-conductive material for electrical work, such as when working near overhead power lines.
- Make sure that the ladder is the proper length to do the job safely. Choose a ladder that is designed for how you intend to use it. For example, do not use step ladders in a folded and leaned position in place of a straight ladder.
- Chose a ladder that is capable of supporting your weight and the weight of any materials you will be using. See the chart below.
