101 Spruce St. N. Timmins, ON P4N 6M9 Phone: (705) 268-7443 Fax: (705) 267-3590 Toll Free : (877) 422-9322 www.ncdsb.on.ca Northeastern Catholic District School Board You are the light of the World! Northeastern Catholic District School Board Ladder Safety Program 2009-2010 Date: January 2010 Prepared by: Bob Landry, Manager of Plant Reviewed and Approved By: Joint Health and Safety Committee and Senior Management Review Date: January 2015 NCDSB Ladder Safety Program, 2010 1
TABLE OF CONTENTS BACKGROUND.... 3 OBJECTIVE...3 APPLICABLE LEGISLATION AND RELEVANT STANDARDS...3 ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES...4 Principals/Supervisors and Managers...4 Workers...4 Manager of Plant...4 Joint Health and Safety Committee and Health & Safety Representatives...4 TRAINING...5 Form of Training...5 Record of Training...5 Frequency of Training...5 LADDER SELECTION AND PURCHASE... 5 LADDER STORAGE AND ACCESSIBILITY...5 PROGRAM REVIEW...5 FACILITIES RENTAL...6 APPENDICES Appendix A Ladder Inspection Checklist...7 Appendix B Applicable Legislation...8 Appendix C General Requirements...12 Appendix D Ladder Ratings...15 Appendix E Ladder Inspection Tag.... 16 Appendix F References and Resources...17 NCDSB Ladder Safety Program, 2010 2
BACKGROUND Portable ladders are used in a wide variety of settings at Northeastern Catholic District School Board (NCDSB) such as light changing, ceiling work, cabling, etc. Unsafe use of portable ladders can result in serious injuries and fatalities from falls or, in the case of metal ladders, electric shock. Portable ladders must be maintained in good condition at all times, and inspected before each use. Training is also an important aspect of portable ladder safety and accident prevention. It is important to use the correct equipment for the job. In many cases, portable work platforms are preferable to ladders. LADDER SAFETY PROGRAM This program applies to all workers and their Principals/Supervisors and Managers who in their course of work may use ladders and or fixed access structures. Note: In this program, worker includes faculty, staff, students and visitors. All employees who use ladders during the course of work must be familiar with this program. Ladder users must be able to recognize ladder hazards and be aware of safe practices in setting up, storing, moving and working from ladders to prevent injuries from occurring. Ladders are generally not work platforms. The only time they are permitted to be used as work positioning devices is when it is not possible to use other methods. Ladders are permitted for short duration work which is defined as 30 minutes or less. If the work will take longer, then an alternate method of access must be used. OBJECTIVE To protect workers from hazards related to use, handling and storing portable ladders. Workers will be trained on the safe use, handling and storing of portable ladders. To promote the inspection, safe use, and maintenance of portable ladders and fixed access structures. APPLICABLE LEGISLATION AND RELEVANT STANDARDS: O. Reg. 851. R.R.O. 1990, Industrial Establishments, Sections 17, 18, 19, 43 & 7 3- Refer to Appendix B O. Reg. 213/91 Construction Projects, Sections 78-84 Refer to Appendix B Canadian Standard Association Standard, CSA/CAN3-Z11-M81(r2005): Portable Ladders Construction Safety Association of Ontario: Health & Safety Manual, ISBN-13: 978-0- 919465-54-1 NCDSB Ladder Safety Program, 2010 3
ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES A. Principals/Supervisors and Managers: It is the responsibility of all Principals/Supervisors and Managers to ensure that any employee at NCDSB who may use a ladder is familiar with this program and receives ladder safety training. They must: B. Workers: 1. Identify workers who need training. 2. Arrange training for the worker. 3. Ensure that workers inspect ladders before each use and report defects. 4. Retain training records and ensure that training records are sent to Manager of Plant. 5. Order appropriate ladders with the approval of the Manager of Plant refer to Ladder Purchasing Guidelines on Page 5. 6. Maintain an inventory of the ladders used in their area. 7. Keep records of regular ladder inspections - refer to Appendix A for the Ladder Inspection Checklist. It is the responsibility of the ladder users to: 1. Attend training as instructed by their Principal/Supervisor and /or Manager. 2. Use portable ladders in a manner consistent with their training at all times. 3. Inspect ladders (refer to Appendix A ) before using them and immediately report any defects and hazards to their Principal/Supervisor and/or Manager. 4. Follow ladder use requirements and safe work practices. 5. Identify themselves to their Principal/Supervisor and/or Manager, if they need to use a ladder. 6. Ensure ladders are properly stored. C. Manager of Plant: It is the responsibility of the Manager of Plant to: 1. Provide advice and safety information concerning ladder safety. 2. Establish a monthly safety inspection of ladders by the custodian at each worksite. 3. Monitor and file monthly custodian reports including the record of ladder inspection. 4. Establish a tag system for use by custodians in the inspection of ladders. (similar to that for fire extinguishers) 5. Maintain a current inventory of ladders used within the NCDSB premises. 6. Approve all ladder purchases for NCDSB. 7. Maintain a central record of ladder safety training for NCDSB employees. D. Joint Health and Safety Committee (JHSC) & JHSC Representatives It is the responsibility of the JHSC representative during the monthly workplace inspection to check the ladder inspection tag attached to each ladder for the date of monthly inspection by the custodian. NCDSB Ladder Safety Program, 2010 4
TRAINING: All employees expected to perform work on and use portable ladders must receive appropriate training. In addition, all Supervisors/Principals as well as members of the JHSC who perform monthly workplace inspections will receive this training. A. Form of Training: The Principal/Supervisor and/or Manager shall contact the Manager of Plant to access the appropriate form of training when training is required. B. Record of Training: All training must be documented and records must be kept. A copy of the record must be sent to the Manager of Plant for filing. C. Frequency of Training: The Manager of Plant recommends that this training be provided once every 3 years or more frequently as required. LADDER SELECTION AND PURCHASE The Manager of Plant will maintain a central inventory of all ladders used within the NCDSB and approve all ladders purchases. LADDER PURCHASING GUIDELINES 1. Ladders must be CSA approved. 2. Ladders must be Grade or 1 (industrial) aluminum or fiberglass 3. Step ladders should be ordered with working platforms whenever possible. 4. Select proper ladder height ( 4ft, 6ft, or 8ft) 5. Once ladder is received, proper identification must be applied to the ladder using a permanent marker. 6. Once ladder is received, contact the Manager of Plant for the inspection tag to be applied to the ladder to document the monthly inspection by the custodian. Note: * All ladders existing and new will require inspection stickers and identifiers * Under no circumstances will a wooden ladder be used on the premises or in the facilities of NCDSB. LADDER STORAGE AND ACCESSBILITY All ladders are to be stored in secured locations and only accessed by workers who have received ladder training. If ladders are unable to be stored in a secured location because of the size of the ladder, the ladder must be secured from being accessed by unauthorized workers. PROGRAM REVIEW The Ladder Safety Program shall be reviewed once every two years in consultation with the Joint Health and Safety Committee. NCDSB Ladder Safety Program, 2010 5
FACILITIES RENTAL Anyone renting the facilities of NCDSB will not be permitted to use a ladder unless they have received the Basics of Fall Protection training. Proof of training must be retained by the Manager of Plant in the appropriate file. NCDSB Ladder Safety Program, 2010 6
APPENDIX A LADDER INSPECTION CHECKLIST The following checklist covers many areas of potential problems. It may be used as a maintenance, department, pre-use or health and safety inspection checklist. Ladder No / I.D.: Location: Type of Ladder: Material: Metal Fiberglass Date of Inspection: Inspected by: Item # Description Yes No 1 Are any parts broken, cracked or splintered? 2 Are there any defects in the side rails, rungs or other parts? 3 Are there any missing or broken rungs? (loose or moveable by hand) 4 Are there any makeshift repairs on the ladder? 5 Are there any worn, damaged or missing feet? 6 Are there any worn, damaged or unworkable extension ladder locks, pulleys or other fittings? 7 Is the rope on extension ladders worn, broken or frayed? 8 Has the rope been replaced with an inferior to the ladder manufacturer s original rope? 9 Are the spreader arms on step ladders bent, worn, broken or otherwise rendered partly or totally ineffective? 10 Is the ladder twisted, warped or bowed? 11 Does the ladder have a CSA classification label that is not legible? NOTE: IF THE ANSWER TO ANY OF THE ABOVE IS YES, THE LADDER SHOULD BE TAGGED AND IMMEDIATELY TAKEN OUT OF SERVICE. NCDSB Ladder Safety Program, 2010 7
APPENDIX B APPLICABLE LEGISLATION Requirements of O. Reg. 851 for Industrial Establishments, Sections 17, 18, 19, 43 & 73 Fixed Access Structures 17. A fixed walkway, service stair or stile shall be at least fifty-five centimetres in width. R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 851, s. 17. 18. (1) Subject to subsection (2), an access ladder fixed in position shall, (a) be vertical; (b) have rest platforms at not more than nine metre intervals; (c) be offset at each rest platform; (d) where the ladder extends over five metres, above grade, floor or landing, have a safety cage commencing not more than 2.2 metres above grade and continuing at least ninety centimetres above the top landing with openings to permit access by a worker to rest platforms or to the top landing; (e) have side rails that extend ninety centimetres above the landing; and (f) have rungs which are at least fifteen centimetres from the wall and spaced at regular intervals. (2) Subsection (1) does not apply to an access ladder on a tower, water tank, chimney or similar structure which has a safety device which will provide protection should a worker using the ladder fall. R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 851, s. 18. 19. Where frequent access is required to equipment elevated above or located below floor level, permanent platforms shall be provided with access by a fixed, (a) stair; or (b) access ladder. R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 851, s. 19. 20. Barriers, warning signs or other safeguards for the protection of all workers in an area shall be used where vehicle or pedestrian traffic may endanger the safety of any worker. R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 851, s. 20. Electrical Conduct 43. Tools and other equipment that are capable of conducting electricity and endangering the safety of any worker shall not be used in such proximity to any live electrical installation or equipment that they might make electrical contact with the live conductor. R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 851, s. 43. Portable Ladders 73. A portable ladder shall, (a) be free from broken or loose members or other faults; (b) have non-slip feet; (c) be placed on a firm footing; (d) where it, (i) exceeds six metres in length and is not securely fastened, or (ii) is likely to be endangered by traffic, NCDSB Ladder Safety Program, 2010 8
be held in place by one or more workers while being used; and (e) 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. R.R.O. 1990, Reg. 851, s. 73. Requirements of O. Reg. 213/91 for Construction Projects, Sections 78-84 78. (1) A ladder 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. O. Reg. 213/91, s. 78 (1). (2) A ladder, (a) shall be free from defective or loose rungs; (b) shall have rungs spaced at 300 millimetres on centres; (c) shall have side rails at least 300 millimetres apart; (d) shall be placed on a firm footing; and (e) shall be situated so that its base is not less than one-quarter, and not more than one-third, of the length of the ladder from a point directly below the top of the ladder and at the same level as the base of the ladder, if the ladder is not securely fastened. O. Reg. 213/91, s. 78 (2). (3) The maximum length of a ladder measured along its side rail shall not be more than, (a) five metres for a trestle ladder or for each of the base and extension sections of an extension trestle ladder; (b) six metres for a step-ladder; (c) nine metres for a single ladder or an individual section of a ladder; (d) fifteen metres for an extension ladder with two sections; and (e) twenty metres for an extension ladder with more than two sections. O. Reg. 213/91, s. 78 (3). (4) No ladder shall be lashed to another ladder to increase its length. O. Reg. 213/91, s. 78 (4). (5) In this section, extension trestle ladder means a combination of a trestle ladder and a vertically-adjustable single ladder with a suitable means of securely locking the ladders together. O. Reg. 213/91, s. 78 (5). 79. No ladder shall be present in an elevator shaft or a similar hoisting area when the shaft or area is being used for hoisting. O. Reg. 213/91, s. 79. 80. A ladder used as a regular means of access between levels of a structure, (a) shall extend at the upper level at least 900 millimetres above the landing or floor; (b) shall have a clear space of at least 150 millimetres behind every rung; (c) shall be located so that an adequate landing surface that is clear of obstructions is available at the top and bottom of the ladder; and NCDSB Ladder Safety Program, 2010 9
(d) shall be secured at the top and bottom to prevent movement. O. Reg. 213/91, s. 80. 81. (1) A wooden ladder, (a) shall be made of wood that is straight-grained and free of loose knots, sharp edges, splinters and shakes; and (b) shall not be painted or coated with an opaque material. O. Reg. 213/91, s. 81(1). (2) The side rails of a wooden ladder of the cleat type, (a) shall be not less than 400 millimetres and not more than 610 millimetres apart; and (b) shall measure not less than, (i) thirty-eight millimetres by eighty-nine millimetres if the ladder is 5.8 metres or less long, or (ii) thirty-eight millimetres by 140 millimetres if the ladder is more than 5.8 metres long. O. Reg. 213/91, s. 81 (2). (3) The rungs of a wooden ladder of the cleat type, (a) shall measure not less than, (i) nineteen millimetres by sixty-four millimetres if the side rails are 400 millimeters apart, or (ii) nineteen millimetres by eighty-nine millimetres if the side rails are more than 400 millimetres and not more than 610 millimeters apart; and (b) shall be braced by filler blocks that are nineteen millimetres thick and are located between the rungs. O. Reg. 213/91, s. 81 (3). 82. A double-width wooden ladder, (a) shall have three evenly-spaced rails that measure at least thirty-eight millimetres by 140 millimetres; (b) shall have rungs that, (i) measure at least thirty-eight millimeters by eighty-nine millimetres, (ii) extend the full width of the ladder, and (iii) are braced by filler blocks that are at least 19 millimeters thick; and (c) shall not be less than 1.5 metres wide and not more than two metres wide. O. Reg. 213/91, s. 82. 83. (1) When a step-ladder is being used as a self-supporting unit, its legs shall be fully-spread and its spreader shall be locked. O. Reg. 213/91, s. 83 (1). (2) No worker shall stand on the top of or the pail shelf of a step-ladder. O. Reg. 213/91, s. 83 (2). 84. (1) Subject to subsection (2), an access ladder fixed in position, (a) shall be vertical; NCDSB Ladder Safety Program, 2010 10
(b) shall have rest platforms at not more than nine metre intervals; (c) shall be offset at each rest platform; (d) where the ladder extends over three metres above grade, floor or landing, shall have a safety cage commencing not more than 2.2 metres above grade, floor or landing and continuing at least 90 centimetres above the top landing with openings to permit access by a worker to rest platforms or to the top landing; (e) shall have side rails that extend 90 centimetres above the landing; and (f) shall have rungs that are at least 15 centimetres from the wall and spaced at regular intervals. O. Reg. 631/94, s. 2. (2) Subsection (1) does not apply to an access ladder on a tower, water tank, chimney or similar structure that has a safety device that will provide protection should a worker using the ladder fall. O. Reg. 631/94, s. 2. NCDSB Ladder Safety Program, 2010 11
APPENDIX C GENERAL REQUIREMENTS 1. 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: i. Falling from ladders (especially when getting on/off or contact with electricity) ii. Struck by objects or by ladder (falling ladder or when carrying ladders) iii. Tripping over ladders iv. Muscle strain from carrying heavy ladders Causes of ladder accidents include: i. Ladder not secured in place ii. Slippery surfaces (feet, rungs, footwear) iii. Improper angle iv. Improper set-up (not spreading ladder legs and spreader bars) v. Poor grip vi. Unsafe position on ladder (reaching, climbing too high) vii. Defective/damaged ladder viii. Ladder positioned too close to electrical lines ix. Using ladder in high winds 2. 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 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 i. Step ii. Straight iii. Extension iv. Platform (recommended) b) Select the most appropriate material (refer to chart in Appendix D ) c) Select proper ladder height to i. Position yourself so you don t have to stand on the upper rungs. ii. Check for overhead power lines. iii. Only use fiberglass ladder when working on or near electrical conductors. 3. Inspection 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: NCDSB Ladder Safety Program, 2010 12
i. Defects such as broken or missing rungs, cleats, safety feet or rails. ii. Slippery substance on rungs. iii. Stability iv. 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 Ensure wooden ladders are not painted Damaged or defective ladders must be immediately removed from service and not used. Refer to inspection checklist in Appendix A. 4. Set-up: i. Check the work and surrounding areas for hazards such as overhead wires, slippery or uneven surfaces, traffic etc.. ii. Ensure the area at the base and the top of the ladder is free/clear of any obstructions. iii. The base of the ladder should be secured against accidental movement (e.g. non-slip feet, nailing a cleat to the floor or using stabilizers) iv. Ensure the ground/surface is firm and level. v. Tie off or secure the top of all ladders over 3m (10ft) in height. Have another worker hold the ladder until tie-off is complete. The top of the ladder must extend at least one metre (3ft) above the landing or opening. vi. Secure the base when raising a ladder. Never set up when the ladder is already extended. vii. Have someone hold the bottom of the ladder when the top is not tied off. viii. Do not place ladders against flexible or moveable surfaces. ix. When erecting a long, awkward or heavy ladder, two or more persons must be involved. x. Keep metal and wood ladders away from power lines and other live conductors. xi. Only place ladders on firm, level ground. Do not place ladders on top of boxes, unstable surfaces or on scaffolds to gain additional height. xii. Position ladders at proper angle (straight and extension) and secure in position. The recommended angle is 4:1 Position the feet 1 foot back for each 4 feet up. xiii. Open ladder fully (step ladder) and ensure spreader arms are in the locked position. xiv. Step ladders shall never be used in the unfolded position. xv. Ladders shall not be used in high winds. xvi. Take appropriate measures to protect the base of the ladder from any activity that could bang it (e.g. people, doors, vehicles etc.) Have someone guard or block the area while work is being performed on the ladder. Post warning signs or use pylons if necessary. NCDSB Ladder Safety Program, 2010 13
5. Safe Climbing and Use: i. Only one person is permitted on a ladder at the same time. ii. Do not overreach. Move the ladder as needed. iii. Always face the ladder when climbing up or down and keep your hips (centre of gravity) between the rails. iv. Always descend a ladder step by step - never jump off a ladder. v. Maintain 3-point contact with the ladder (1 hand and 2 feet or 2 hands and 1 foot) when climbing or descending ladders. vi. Keep hands free when climbing ladders. Use a tool belt or rope to raise tools. vii. Move ladder as needed. Never walk a ladder while standing on it. viii. Do not stand on or above the 3 rd rung from the top of the ladder. Never climb above the top support point. Do not sit, stand or climb on the top step, pail shelf, braces or back section. ix. Ensure soles of shoes/boots are clean and not slippery. x. Do not use ladders horizontally as substitutes for scaffold platforms, etc. xi. Do not straddle the space between a ladder and another object. xii. Never climb damaged, bent or broken ladders. xiii. Get help when carrying long or heavy ladders. xiv. Be aware of surroundings when carrying ladders. Pay particular attention to overhead obstacles and people around to avoid striking them. xv. Do not use ladders if you tire easily, are subject to fainting spells or are using medicine. 6. Storing and Transporting Ladders: i. Ladders should be supported to prevent sagging. ii. Do not store items on top of ladders. iii. 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 for long ladders (longer than 8 feet) NCDSB Ladder Safety Program, 2010 14
APPENDIX D LADDER RATINGS The Canadian Standards Association standard for portable ladders (CAN3-Z11-M81 (R2005)) 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 table below. 1. Select the ladder of proper length to reach working height. 2. Select the ladder grade by projected use and load rating. Ladder Ratings and Recommended Use Grade Load Rating Capacity (lbs) Recommended Use 1A Extra Heavy (USA) 300 Construction and Industrial 1 Heavy 250 Construction and Industrial 2 Moderate 225 Tradesmen and Farm 3 Light 200 Household NCDSB Ladder Safety Program, 2010 15
APPENDIX E INSPECTION TAG CREATED FOR ATTACHMENT TO EACH LADDER FOR INSPECTION PURPOSES NCDSB Ladder Safety Program, 2010 16
APPENDIX F REFERENCES & RESOURCES Workplace Safety and Insurance Board (WSIB) Ladder Safety - http://www.wsib.on.ca/wsib/wsibsite.nsf/public/fallscostusall Construction Safety Association of Ontario (CSAO) Ladders - http://www.csao.org/uploadfiles/safety_manual/equipment/ladders.pdf Education Safety Association of Ontario (ESAO) Safety information Sheet Ladders http://www.esao.on.ca/downloads/info_sheets/slips_falls.aspx Industrial Accident Prevention Association (IAPA) A Health and safety Guideline for Your Workplace Ladders http://www.iapa.ca/main/resources/resources_downloads.aspx#hazard_tips Safety Care Inc. Safety Training DVD/Videos for the Canadian Workplace http://www.safetycare.ca Mohawk College of Applied Arts and Technology Ladder Safety Procedures (October 2009) York University Ladder Safety Program (March 2009) University of Toronto Working at Elevated Places, Potable Ladders Standard Selection and Use (February 2009) University of Guelph Safety Policy Manual, Policy 851.07.03, Ladders and Fixed Access Structures (September 2000) Approval by the Director of Education Date Glenn Sheculski NCDSB Ladder Safety Program, 2010 17