UCAR Safety Manual
 Ladder Use, Inspection and Maintenance
EFFECTIVE DATE: 6-15-2010
LATEST CHANGE DATE: 6-15-2010
SUPERSEDES: None
Scope
Provides safe practices, policies, and procedures for using, storing and inspecting portable and fixed ladders; and meets regulatory requirements OSHA 29 CFR 1926.1053.
1.0 Definitions
1.1 Qualified Person
One who has the knowledge, skills and ability to repair ladders based on professional standing, training, and experience.
1.2 Fixed Ladder
A ladder that cannot be readily moved or carried because it is an integral part of a building or structure.
1.3 Ladder
A structure for climbing up or down that consists of side rails and cross pieces on which one may step. For the purpose of this policy, ladders are greater than 32 inches long.
1.4 Portable Ladder
A ladder than can be readily moved or carried.
2.0 Responsibilities
2.1 Management
Provides adequate resources and support to assure employees and supervisors are qualified, properly trained and equipped to select and use ladders safely.
2.2 Functional Supervisor
2.2.1 Monitors the use of ladders by staff and visitors;
2.2.2 Assures employees and visitors are trained and qualified before assigning operations involving ladders;
2.2.3 Provides adequate safety equipment as needed for fixed ladder use when climbing assist and fall protection are required;
2.2.4 Assures ladders are available for annual visual inspection.
2.3 Health, Environment and Safety Services (HESS)
2.3.1 Provides technical guidance upon request for the safe selection and use of fixed and portable ladders;
2.3.2 Periodically surveys work areas for compliance with this policy;
2.3.3 Provides training for use of ladders;
2.3.4 Conducts an annual audit of the Ladder Safety program to assure compliance with regulations.
2.4 Employees
Follow the requirements of this policy and the practices taught in training when selecting, using and storing ladders.
2.5 Contractors
Provide a written program on ladder safety to the Health Environment and Safety Services office for review and approval before using ladders at any UCAR facility.
3.0 Procedures
3.1 Ladder Storage
Ladders must be stored in a dry environment, protected from falling or being crushed. Ladders may be hung from hooks, or leaned against a wall or other stationary object and chained or strapped in place to prevent falling.
3.2 Ladder Use
Ladders or steps must be used to access any change in elevation 19 inches or more if a ramp or embankment is not provided. Select ladders that are designed in accordance with specifications provided in OSHA standard 29CFR1926.1053 or ANSI14.1-5. Site built or installed ladders must conform to the same specifications.
3.2.1 Maintain ladders free of oil, grease and other slipping hazards.
3.2.2 Do not load ladders beyond their maximum intended load nor beyond their manufacturer’s rated capacity.
3.2.3 Use ladders only on stable and level surfaces unless secured to prevent accidental movement.
3.2.4 Do not use ladders on slippery surfaces unless secured or provided with slip-resistant feet to prevent accidental movement. Do not use slip resistant feet as a substitute for exercising care when placing, lashing or holding a ladder upon slippery surfaces.
3.2.5 Secure ladders placed in areas such as passageways, doorways or driveways, or where they can be displaced by workplace activities, traffic, or wind to prevent accidental movement. Or use a barricade to keep traffic or activity away from the ladder.
3.2.6 Keep areas clear around the top and bottom of ladders.
3.2.7 Do not move, shift or extend ladders while a person is on the ladder.
3.2.8 Use ladders equipped with nonconductive side rails if the worker or the ladder could contact exposed energized electrical equipment.
3.2.9 Face the ladder when moving up or down, keep center of body between side rails.
3.2.10 Use at least one hand to grasp the ladder when climbing.
3.2.11 Do not carry objects or loads that could cause loss of balance and falling.
3.2.12 Do not leave ladders unattended when in use.
3.2.13 Portable ladders
3.2.13.1 Do not use the top or top step of a stepladder as a step.
3.2.13.2 Do not use cross bracing on the rear section of stepladders for climbing unless the ladders are designed and provided with steps for climbing on both front and rear sections.
3.2.13.3 Metal spreader or locking devices must be provided on stepladders to hold the front and back sections in an open position when ladders are being used.
3.2.14 Place extension ladders against vertical surfaces with a minimum angle of 760, or a ratio of 1:4.
3.2.15 Fixed ladders
3.2.16 Fixed ladders that are more than 24 feet long must be equipped with a cage or ladder climbing assistive device as specified in 29CFR1926.1053.
3.3 Ladder Inspection
Ladders are to be inspected by the user before each use. Look for signs of damage including broken or bent rails, rungs, or spreaders. Damaged ladders must be removed from service and tagged out. Ladders that can be returned to original design criteria may be repaired by a qualified person. Ladders that cannot be effectively repaired must be destroyed prior to disposal.
4.0 Training
Training materials must include the proper construction, use, placement and care in handling of all stairways and ladders; and maximum intended load-carrying capacities of ladders used. Training may be classroom or web based. Periodic retraining may be required to maintain understanding and knowledge on the safe use and construction of ladders.
5.0 Recordkeeping
5.1
HESS shall retain records of training regarding ladder safety for the duration of employment.
5.2
HESS shall retain records of annual ladder inspection for 5 years.
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