Ladder Safety By Helen Anderson Stagecraft

What do you already know about ladder safety?

Why is it Important? When using a ladder it is always very important to use it properly. You are much less likely to fall off a ladder and injure yourself, if you learn how to use it safely. Most accidents from ladders are actually caused by incorrect usage of them. You can avoid these accidents if you remember certain rules when climbing and using ladders.

Remember to: Before climbing a ladder always: Make sure that you have put your ladder on a flat, stable, clean and non-slippery surface. Check your ladder for cracks, splits and breaks. (esp. wooden ladders) Make sure the rungs of your ladder are clean and free from slippery substances like paint, grease, mud and paper.

Make sure that the braces or any other kind of locks are locked down into place. When using metal ladders, check that they are away from any exposed electrical equipment. Make sure that the ladder leading up the cat walk (or any other area) is well lit.

Remember to: When climbing up and down a ladder always: Face the ladder and use both hands for holding on. Keep a three point contact position. (two hands and one foot/one hand and two feet.) If there is a railing make sure you use it.

Remember to: When up a ladder always remember: Not to overreach, or lean to far to one side. Never go over the maximum load of a ladder (include tools) Do not walk under ladders when someone is on them, you might jog the ladder, and something might fall on you from above

Always get someone to hold the side of your ladder to stabilise it. When putting up scenery change the position of the ladder if you need to, do not try and reach over. When using tools, ask someone to hand them to you after you are on the ladder, do not try and climb up with the tools in hand.

Demonstration Would someone from the audience please come up and demonstrate climbing and using a ladder, keeping in mind what you have learnt today. You can ask someone to help you if you wish.

Bibliography Brouhard, Rod. "Ladder Safety - Ladder Safety Tips - Safe Ladder Usage." About.com First Aid - First Aid & Safety Tips for Emergencies or Everyday. 23 Sep "Portable Ladder Safety Tips." Occupational Safety and Health Administration - OSHA HOME PAGE. 23 Sep "eLCOSH : Ladder Safety." eLCOSH - Electronic Library of Construction Occupational Safety and Health. 23 Sep "ladders999 - Ladder Safety Guide." ladders-999.co.uk - probably the widest choice of ladders, steps and towers in the U.K. -  alloy ladders, glassfibre ladders, roof ladders, telescopic ladders, loft ladders, combination ladders, ladders accessories, steps, alloy stepladders, glassfibr. 23 Sep Created at