Ladder Safety - Extension

What should you do to safely secure extension ladders?

1. Place ladders on a firm, level surface and ensure the footing is secure.
2. Erect extension ladders so that the upper section rests on (e.g., in front of) the bottom section. This means the bottom section "faces" a wall or other supporting surface (see figures below).
3. Place the ladder feet so that the horizontal distance between the feet and the top support is 1/4 of the working length of the ladder. The ladder will be leaning at a 75 degree angle from the ground.
4.  

Extension ladder

1. Raise and lower ladders from the ground. Ensure that locking ladder hooks are secure before climbing.
2. Erect ladders so that a minimum of 1 m (3 ft) extends above a landing platform. Tie the top at support points.
3. Brace or tie off the ladder near the base. If there is no structure to tie off to, use a stake in the ground.
4. Leave all tie-off devices in place until they must be removed before taking the ladder down.
5. Maintain the minimum overlap of sections as shown on a ladder label. Refer to safety regulations.

Note: When working 3 metres (10 feet) or more above ground, wear a safety belt or harness with the lanyard tied appropriately to the structure.

What should you avoid when using extension ladders?

• Do not use ladders near electrical wire.
• Do not set up or take a ladder down when it is extended.
• Do not overextend. Maintain minimum overlap of sections.
• Do not climb higher than the fourth rung from the top of a ladder.
• Do not use ladders on ice, snow or other slippery surfaces without securing ladders' feet.
• Do not extend top section of a ladder from above or by "bouncing" on a ladder.
• Do not leave ladders unattended.

What should you do to avoid overexertion while setting up an extension ladder?
When setting up an extension ladder, use the following method to avoid straining muscles or losing control of a ladder. With ladders weighing more than 25 kg (55 lb), or where conditions complicate the task, have two persons set up a ladder, step by step, as follows:

• Lay a ladder on the ground close to intended location.
• Brace ladder base using helpers' feet.
• Grasp the top rung with both hands, raise the top end over your head and walk toward the base of a ladder. Grasp the centre of the rungs to maintain stability.
• Move the erect ladder to the desired location. Lean it forward against the resting point.

One person can erect a short ladder, step by step as follows:

• Place the bottom of a ladder firmly against the base of a building or stationary object.
• Lift the top of ladder, and pull upwards to raise a ladder to a vertical position.
• Transfer a ladder to its required position when it is erect.
• Keep a ladder upright and close to the body with a firm grip.

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