KENORA CATHOLIC DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD 600 Health and Safety Procedures AP 628: Portable Ladder Purpose Accidents involving ladders are common in the workplace because this tool is often abused and/or used improperly. A ladder must be used once you exceed a comfortable work height. The following section is intended to provide some guidelines and requirements for the safe use of portable ladders. Responsibilities Worker shall: Inspect all ladders prior to use Only use Canadian Safety Association(CSA) approved ladders Report, tag out and take out of service any defective ladders Comply with relevant legislation Supervisor shall: Ensure staff is properly trained in ladder use Ensure staff follow proper procedure as set out Take out of service any unsafe ladders Employer shall: Ensure all supervisors and staff are properly trained in the use of portable ladders Provide Personal Protective Equipment(PPE) as necessary to carry out work Adhere to ladder purchasing criteria Assign staff to carry out a thorough ladder inspection on an annual basis LADDER SAFETY PROCEDURES 1.0 INTRODUCTION Ladders are commonly used to reach or to gain access to higher areas/levels and sometimes from which to perform work. There are a number of hazards associated with ladder use that can cause accidents resulting in serious injuries. These potential injuries include: falling from ladders (especially when getting on/off or contact with electricity) ; struck by objects or by ladder (falling ladder or when carrying ladders) ; tripping over ladders ;
muscle strain from carrying heavy ladders. Causes of ladder accidents include: Ladder not secured in place Slippery surfaces (feet, rungs, footwear) Improper angle Improper set up, not spreading ladder legs and spreader bars. Poor grip Unsafe position on ladder (reaching, climbing too high) Defective/damaged ladder Ladder positioned too close to electrical lines Using ladder in high winds Working from ladders poses the risk of falling and the decision to use a ladder from which to work should be considered the least desirable method. Safer alternate methods such as performing work from stairs, scaffolding or elevating platforms should be considered first. This document describes different ladder types and outlines the procedures for proper selection and safe use of portable ladders. 2.0 TYPES OF LADDERS 2.1 LADDER TYPES Ladders may be fabricated from wood, aluminum or fiberglass and they come in different shapes and heights or lengths. Selecting the proper ladder depends on the particular task at hand. Ladder types include: straight extension sectional hooked trestle and extension trestle step platform (best choice if working from ladder) step For the purposes of the procedure only the straight, extension, and step ladders will be dealt with. The other ladder types may require different procedures and are for information only. KENORA CATHOLIC DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD ADMINISTRATIVE PROCEDURE 2
Straight Ladder Sectional Ladder Hooked Ladder Step Ladder Platform Ladder KENORA CATHOLIC DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD ADMINISTRATIVE PROCEDURE 3
2.2 LADDER CLASSIFICATION The Canadian Standards Association standard for portable ladders (CAN3 Z11 M81 (2003)) specifies certain minimum characteristics of strength and stability necessary for the safe use of portable ladders. It also includes guidelines for safe use and care of ladders. Ladders are classified as outlined in the following table; Table #1 Ladder Ratings and Recommended Use Rating Grade Capacity (lbs) Recommended Use Extra Heavy (USA) 1A 300 Construction and Industrial Heavy 1 250 Construction and Industrial Moderate 2 225 Tradesman and Farm Light 3 200 Residential 3.0 REGULATORY REQUIREMENTS Safe ladder requirements for specific types of work can be found in the following regulations under the Occupational Health and Safety Act. Construction (O.Reg 213) Industrial Establishments (O.Reg. 851) Window Cleaning (O.Reg. 859) 3.1 CONSTRUCTION REGULATIONS Ladders shall be designed, constructed and maintained so as not to endanger a worker and shall be capable of withstanding all loads to which it may be subjected: only CSA Grade 1 Ladders shall be used (Construction and Industrial, Heavy Load Rating); a ladder: shall be free from defects or loose rungs shall have rungs spaced at 300 mm on centers shall have side rails at least 300 mm apart shall be placed on firm footing shall be situated so that its base is not less than 1/4 and not more than 1/3 of the length of a ladder from a point directly below the top of the ladder and at the same level as the base of the ladder if the base is not securely fastened; the maximum length of a ladder measured along its side rail shall not be more than: o 5m for a trestle ladder or for each of the base and extension sections of an extension trestle ladder 6 m for a step ladder KENORA CATHOLIC DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD ADMINISTRATIVE PROCEDURE 4
9 m for a single ladder or individual section of a ladder 15 m for an extension ladder with two sections 20 m for an extension ladder with more than two sections no ladder shall be latched to another ladder to increase length no ladder shall be present in an elevator shaft or a similar hoisting area when the shaft or area is being used for hoisting. A ladder used as a regular means of access between levels of a structure: shall extend at the upper level at least 900 mm above the landing or floor shall have a clear space of at least 150 mm behind every rung shall be located so that an adequate landing surface that is clear of obstructions is available at the top and bottom of the landing and shall be secured at the top and bottom to prevent movement. 3.2 INDUSTRIAL REGULATION PORTABLE LADDERS Portable ladders shall; be free from broken or loose members have non slip feet be placed on firm footing where it exceeds 6 m in length and is not securely fastened, or is likely to be endangered by traffic be held in place by one or more workers while being used and when not securely fastened, be inclined so that the horizontal distance from the top support to the foot of the ladder is not less than 1/4 and not more than 1/3 of the length of the ladder. 3.3 MINIMUM DISTANCE FROM ELECTRICAL POWER LINES Unless special measures and procedures are in place, ladders must be protected from making contact with energized conductors and be kept at safe distances of at least as far as required by the following table: Table #2 Minimum Distances from Live Power Lines Nominal Phase to Phase Voltage Minimum Distance 750 or more volts, but not more than 150,000 volts 3 meters More than 150,000 volts, but no more than 250,000 volts 4.5 meters More than 250,000 6 meters KENORA CATHOLIC DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD ADMINISTRATIVE PROCEDURE 5
4.0 LADDER SET UP AND USE PROCEDURES 4.1 GENERAL LADDER SELECTION AND SAFE USE PROCEDURES 4.1.1 Ladder Selection Working from ladders poses the risk of falling and the decision to use a ladder from which to work should be considered the least desirable method. Safer alternate methods such as performing work from stairs, scaffolding or elevating platforms should be considered first. When selecting a ladder: a) Select the most appropriate type of ladder for the task to be performed Step Straight Extension Platform b) Select most appropriate material Aluminum Fiberglass (only use fiberglass near electrical equipment) Wood c) Select proper ladder height to: Position yourself so you don t have to stand on the upper rungs! Check for overhead power lines. This may be applicable. See chart (voltages and distance) Use fiberglass when working on or near electrical conductors 4.1.2 Inspect Ladders Prior to Use Before using a ladder, be sure to inspect it to ensure it is in good working condition and safe to use. Inspect ladders for: Broken or missing rungs, cleats, safety feet or rails Slippery substances on rungs Stability Inspect for structural integrity Joints should be tight and secure Hardware and fittings should be secure, not damaged or corroded Moveable parts should operate freely Check side rails and rungs for signs of damage, cracks, fraying (fiberglass) Test rung locks (extension ladders) Check ropes, cables and pulleys Damaged or defective ladders must be immediately removed from service and not used. KENORA CATHOLIC DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD ADMINISTRATIVE PROCEDURE 6
4.1.3 Set Up Check the work and surrounding areas for hazards such as overhead wires, slippery or uneven surfaces, traffic etc. Ensure the area at base and top of ladder is free/clear of obstructions Ensure ground/surface is firm and level Keep metal and wood ladders away from power lines and other live conductors Place ladders on firm, level ground Position ladder at proper angle (straight and extension) and secure in position Open ladder fully (step ladder) Take appropriate measures to protect the base of the ladder from any activity that could bang it (e.g. people, doors, vehicles) Have someone guard or block the area while work is being performed on the ladder, post warning signs or use pylons if necessary. 4.1.4 Safe Climbing and Use Only one person is permitted on a ladder at the same time Do not overreach Always face the ladder and keep your hips (centre of gravity) between the rails Maintain 3 point contact with ladders (1 hand and 2 feet or 2 hands and 1 foot) when climbing or descending ladders Keep hands free when climbing ladders; use a tool belt or rope to raise tools Ensure soles of shoes are clean and not slippery Never climb a damaged, bent or broken ladder Get help when carrying long or heavy ladders Be aware of surroundings when carrying ladders, pay particular attention to overhead obstacles and people around to avoid striking them Do not use ladders if you tire easily, are subject to fainting spells, are using medicine or are physically limited You must be physically fit to work on a ladder. DO NOT USE A LADDER IF YOU: Have a sore back, legs, arms, hands Have dizziness, nausea or light headedness Are taking medications that affect your balance or concentration If you experienced a dizzy spell on a ladder: Stop and drape arms over a rung and wait until the spell passes Slowly and carefully descend ladder. KENORA CATHOLIC DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD ADMINISTRATIVE PROCEDURE 7
4.1.5 Storing and Transporting Ladders Ladders should be supported to prevent sagging Do not store items on top of ladders When carrying a ladder: hold middle side rail and tip front slightly upward watch for swing in the tail end watch for overhead hazards get help with long ladders (>8feet) 4.2 EXTENSION OR SINGLE SECTION STRAIGHT LADDERS 4.2.1 Ladder Selection Select a ladder of proper length to reach the working height and inspect prior to use. Keep metal and wood ladders away from power lines and other live conductors Use fiberglass ladders when performing work on or near electrical conductors 4.2.2 Inspect Ladders Prior to Use Before using a ladder, be sure to inspect it to ensure it is in good working condition and safe to use. Damaged or defective ladders must be immediately removed from service and not used. 4.2.3 Set Up Set ladder on firm ground and do not use on ice, snow or slippery surface without non skid devices or securing feet. Extend ladder 3 feet above roof line and tie top at support points. Extend top section only from ground, never by bouncing or from the roof. Secure the base when raising ladder. Never set up ladder when it is extended. Position ladders at a safe angle. The recommended angle is 4:1 Position the feet 1 foot back for each 4 feet up. Do not overextend the ladder sections. Maintain minimum overlap of sections Have someone hold the bottom of the ladder when the top is not tied off Securely engage ladder locks before climbing. Check to ensure the top and bottom ends of ladder rails are firmly supported. Protect the base of the ladder from any activity that could bang it (e.g. people, doors, vehicles). Have someone guard or block the area while work is being performed on the ladder Post warning signs or use pylons if necessary. KENORA CATHOLIC DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD ADMINISTRATIVE PROCEDURE 8
4.2.4 Safe Climbing and Use Do not place in front of a door opening toward the ladder unless the doorway can be secured. Face ladder when climbing up or down. Do not overreach. Keep body centered between side rails. Move ladder as needed. Never walk a ladder while standing on it. Maintain a firm grip. Use both hands when climbing. Do not climb onto ladder from the side unless the ladder is secured against movement. Do not stand on or above the third rung from the top of the ladder. Never climb above the top support point. Do not use ladder in high winds. Keep ladder close to work area. Avoid pushing or pulling off to side of ladder. Do not place on boxes, unstable surfaces or on scaffolds to gain additional height. 4.3 STEP LADDERS 4.3.1 Ladder Selection Select a style (e.g. platform, standard frame etc.) of step ladder Most appropriate to the task and of proper height to reach the working height. Keep metal and wood ladders away from power lines and other live conductors. Use fiberglass ladders when performing work on or near electrical conductors. 4.3.2 Inspect Ladders Prior to Use Before using a ladder, be sure to inspect it to ensure it is in good working condition and safe to use. Damaged or defective ladders must be immediately removed from service and not used. 4.3.3 Set Up Place ladder on firm, level surface with secure footing. Do not use on slippery surfaces. Open the ladder fully and lock the spreader in open position. KENORA CATHOLIC DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD ADMINISTRATIVE PROCEDURE 9
Do not place on boxes, unstable surfaces or on scaffolds to gain additional height. Do not place in front of a door opening toward the ladder unless the doorway can be secured and/or the ladder can be protected against impact. Have someone guard or block the area while work is being performed on the ladder. Post warning signs or use pylons if necessary. 4.3.4 Safe Climbing and Use Maintain firm grip and use both hands when climbing. Never climb the ladder from the side unless it is secured against sideway motion. Do not overreach. Move the ladder as needed. Face the ladder when climbing up or down. Keep the body centered between side rails. Do not walk or shift the ladder when standing on it. Do not sit, stand or climb on the top step, pail shelf, braces or back section. Keep the ladder close to the work area Avoid pushing or pulling off to side of ladder. 5.0 Ladder Purchasing Criteria All requests for ladders and purchases shall be coordinated by the board s Maintenance Supervisor, as per the criteria contained in this procedure. Form(s) Associated with this procedure #125 Job Hazard Analysis Worksheet Legal Reference: Occupational Health and Safety Act (Ont) Construction (O.Reg 213) Occupational Health and Safety Act (Ont) Industrial Establishments (O.Reg. 851) Occupational Health and Safety Act (Ont) Window Cleaning (O.Reg. 859) Occupational Health and Safety Act (Ontario) 25(2) (h) Effective Date: March 1, 2012 Latest Revision Date: March 1, 2012, November 2015, August 30, 2017 Latest Review Date: March 1, 2012, November 2015, August 30, 2017 KENORA CATHOLIC DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD ADMINISTRATIVE PROCEDURE 10
APPENDIX A Kenora Catholic District School Board Ladder Inventory Ladder # School Location Type Lgth. Const. Gr. Date of Last Annual Insp. 1 Maint. Shop Step 6 Fiber 1A Thur. January 26, 2012 2 Maint. Shop Articulating 7 /14 Alu. 1 Thur. January 26, 2012 3 Maint. Shop Step 6 Alu.? Thur. January 26, 2012 4 Maint. Shop Step 3 Fiber 1A Thur. January 26, 2012 5 Maint. Lean-to Step 6 Alu. 1 Thur. January 26, 2012 6 Maint. Shop Ext. 17 Fiber? Thur. January 26, 2012 7 Maint. Shop Step 3 Fiber 1A Thur. January 26, 2012 8 CEC Supply Rm Step 2 Steel? Thur. January 26, 2012 9 CEC Mech Rm Step 2 Steel? Thur. January 26, 2012 10 CEC Mech Rm Step 6 Alum? Thur. January 26, 2012 11 PJP Library Step 2 Steel? Thur. January 26, 2012 12 PJP Office supply rm. Step 2 Steel? Thur. January 26, 2012 13 PJP Rm 107 Step 2 Steel? Thur. January 26, 2012 14 PJP Resource Rm 105 Step 2 Steel? Thur. January 26, 2012 15 PJP Rm 122 Step 2 Steel? Thur. January 26, 2012 16 PJP Rm 121 Step 2 Steel? Thur. January 26, 2012 17 PJP Rm 119 Step 2 Steel? Thur. January 26, 2012 18 PJP Rm 117 Step 2 Steel? Thur. January 26, 2012 19 PJP Rm 115 Step 2 Steel? Thur. January 26, 2012 20 PJP Rm 111 Step 2 Steel? Thur. January 26, 2012 21 PJP Education Storage Step 3 /5 Steel? Thur. January 26, 2012 22 PJP Mech Rm Articulating 7 /14 Alu.? Thur. January 26, 2012 23 PJP Mech Rm Wall Step 6 Alu.? Thur. January 26, 2012 24 PJP Rm 201 Step 2 Steel? Thur. January 26, 2012 25 PJP Rm 203 Step 2 Steel? Thur. January 26, 2012 26 PJP Rm 205 Step 2 Steel? Thur. January 26, 2012 27 PJP Rm 209 Step 2 Steel? Thur. January 26, 2012 28 PJP Rm 211 Step 2 Steel? Thur. January 26, 2012 29 PJP Receiving Rm Step 12 Fiber? Thur. January 26, 2012 30 SMB Library office Step 2 Steel? Thur. January 26, 2012 31 SMB Rm 114 Step 2 Steel? Thur. January 26, 2012 32 SMB Mech Rm Step 4 Alu. 1 Thur. January 26, 2012 33 SMB Mech Rm Step 8 Alu. 1 Thur. January 26, 2012 KENORA CATHOLIC DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD ADMINISTRATIVE PROCEDURE 11
Ladder # School Location Type Lgth. Const. Gr. Date of Last Annual Insp. 34 St. Girls change rm Step 8 Alu. 1 Thur. January 26, 2012 35 St. Rm 205 Step 2 Steel? Thur. January 26, 2012 36 St. Rm 204 Step 2 Steel? Thur. January 26, 2012 37 St. Girls change rm Step 6 Alu? Fri. January 27, 2012 38 St. Health rm Step 2 Steel? Fri. January 27, 2012 39 St. Rm 202 Step 2 Steel? Fri. January 27, 2012 40 St. Rm 201 Step 2 Steel? Fri. January 27, 2012 41 St. Rm 102 Step 2 Steel? Fri. January 27, 2012 42 St. Rm 101 Step 2 Steel? Fri. January 27, 2012 43 St. Basement behind door Step 6 Alu.? Fri. January 27, 2012 44 St. Office Step 2 Steel? Fri. January 27, 2012 45 MSC Shop Step 5 Alu.? Fri. January 27, 2012 46 MSC Shop Step 6 Alu? Fri. January 27, 2012 47 MSC Shop Step 8 Fiber? Fri. January 27, 2012 48 MSC Shop Step 8 Fiber? Fri. January 27, 2012 49 MSC Shop Ext. 8 Fiber 1 Fri. January 27, 2012 50 MSC Shop Step 6 Alu.? Fri. January 27, 2012 51 MSC Shop Step 20 Alu. Fri. January 27, 2012 51 STA Receiving rm downstairs Step 5 Alu.? Fri. January 27, 2012 52 STA Art rm Step 5 Alu.? Fri. January 27, 2012 53 STA Gym storage South Step 8 Alu.? Fri. January 27, 2012 54 STA Music rm Step 5 Alu.? Fri. January 27, 2012 55 STA Mech rm main Step 12 Alu.? Fri. January 27, 2012 56 STA Mech rm Main Ext. 12 Alu.? Fri. January 27, 2012 57 STA Mech rm main Step 10 Fiber? Fri. January 27, 2012 58 STA Mech rm main Step 8 Alu.? Fri. January 27, 2012 59 STA Café Step 2 Steel? Fri. January 27, 2012 60 STA Family study Step 2? Fri. January 27, 2012 61 STA OPP office Step 2 Steel? Fri. January 27, 2012 62 STA Library office Step 2 Steel? Fri. January 27, 2012 63 STA NWG rm 305 Step 2 Steel? Fri. January 27, 2012 64 STA NWG rm 306 Step 2 Steel? Fri. January 27, 2012 65 STA Rm 102 Step 2 Steel? Fri. January 27, 2012 66 STA Rm 103 Step 2 Steel? Fri. January 27, 2012 67 STA Rm 111 Step 2 Steel? Fri. January 27, 2012 KENORA CATHOLIC DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD ADMINISTRATIVE PROCEDURE 12
Ladder # School Location Type Lgth. Const. Gr. Date of Last Annual Insp. 68 STA Rm 114 Step 2 Steel? Fri. January 27, 2012 69 STA Rm 113 Step 2 Steel? Fri. January 27, 2012 70 STA Science prep Step 2 Steel? Fri. January 27, 2012 71 STA East Custodian Store rm Step 6 Alu? Fri. January 27, 2012 72 STA Rm 211 Step 2 Steel? Fri. January 27, 2012 73 STA Nurses rm Step 2 Steel? Fri. January 27, 2012 74 STA Office PA file rm Step 2 Steel? Fri. January 27, 2012 75 Maint. Shop Van Ext. 12 Fiber? Fri. January 27, 2012 76 Maint. Shop Van Step 10 Fiber? Fri. January 27, 2012 77 STA Step 3 Steel? Fri. January 27, 2012 78 STA Multi-Skills Exterior West Wall Fixed 16 Welded Steel N/A Fri. January 27, 2012 Welded 79 STA GR. 7 Wing Custodian Rm Fixed 4 Steel N/A Fri. January 27,2012 Welded 80 SMB Mezz. Mechanical Room Fixed 8 Steel N/A Fri. January 27,2012 Ship s Ladder 8 Welded 81 SMB North Custodian Room Fixed Steel N/A Fri. January 27,2012 82 St. South Exterior Gym Wall Fixed 10 Welded Steel N/A Fri. January 27, 2012 KENORA CATHOLIC DISTRICT SCHOOL BOARD ADMINISTRATIVE PROCEDURE 13