For the Pest Control Technician

It’s Just a Ladder! According to the US DOL, falls are the leading cause of worker fatalities in the construction industry. Annually, falls from a higher level account for 12% of the total injuries among PestSure insured technicians. On average, between workers are killed, and more than 100,000 are injured in falls each year. Failure to have a fall protection plan in place is considered to be a “willful violation”, according to OSHA

LADDER SAFETY “Ladders shall be inspected frequently and those which have developed defects shall be withdrawn from service for repair or destruction and tagged or marked as “Dangerous, Do Not Use”” - OSHA , subpart D “Ladders shall be maintained in good condition at all times…” - OSHA , subpart D

Lashing a Ladder

Placement Considerations Always do a “pre-climb” check to select the best location to place the ladder. Flat, non-slip surface on the ground Potential damage where the top of the ladder contacts the building Check for overhead wires Check left and right of the ladder for potential hazards in the event the ladder falls

Placement Considerations “No ladder should be used to gain access to a roof unless the top of the ladder shall extend at least 3 feet above the point of support, at eaves, gutter, or roofline” - OSHA “Portable rung or cleat ladders shall, where possible, be used at such a pitch that the horizontal distance from the top support to the foot of the ladder is one-quarter of the working length of the ladder…” - OSHA “The ladder shall be placed as to prevent slipping, or it shall be lashed or held in position” - OSHA

LADDER SAFETY Step Ladders Make sure you choose the right step ladder for the job. A sticker showing the weight limit, and designed use are affixed to the side rail. Number your ladders, and have the use limits on file in case the sticker comes off.

What is wrong? How many ladder use safety issues can you identify with the person on the right? More?

What is wrong? How many ladder use safety issues can you identify with the person on the right? 1- using top platform 2- reaching to side 3- substance on floor 4- improper footwear 5- substance on steps 6- bent bottom step 7- skid/footpad missing 8- uneven surface

Step Ladders Proper Use Do not climb or stand on the top rung. Ensure that your step ladder is safely placed, just as you would with an extension ladder. If your work area is out of reach, then get a bigger step ladder

Step Ladders Office Use Don’t forget about the ladders used in the office. If your administrative staff uses a small step ladder or step stool, then they need ladder safety training too.

Questions Remember, an injury on the job goes home with you at night.