Falls from ladders are one of the leading causes of injuries to construction workers in British Columbia. Proper inspection, setup, and use of ladders are critical to preventing accidents.

Inspection Before Use

Inspect each ladder before use. Ladders with loose, broken, or missing rungs, split or bent side rails, or other defects must be identified and removed from service.

Approved Ladder Types

Use only CSA or ANSI Standard approved heavy-duty ladders or job-built wooden ladders built to WorkSafeBC Standard LDR 1-2004.

Setup Requirements

• Ladder tops must rest against a firm structure.
• Ladders must extend about one metre (three feet) above a safe landing or parapet wall.
• Set ladders with a slope ratio of four vertical to one horizontal.
• Ladders must be tied, blocked, or otherwise secured to prevent slipping.
• The base of the ladder's side rails must rest on a firm, level foundation.

Clearances and Safety Precautions

• Maintain at least 900 mm (36 in.) of clearance for safe access.
• Watch for overhead power lines before erecting a ladder.
• Do not use metal or wire-reinforced wooden ladders near energized electrical conductors.

Tip: The ladder base should be placed at a distance equal to 1/4 of the working height from the wall or support point.

At Gama Safety, we train workers to follow strict ladder setup and inspection procedures to prevent falls and ensure safe access on all job sites.

Training Center: 122-2544 Douglas Road, Burnaby BC. V5C 5B4, Canada.

+1 (866) 661-9803 | info@gamasafety.ca | www.gamasafety.ca

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