Ladders are a vital tool for performing many warehouse tasks, but they can be dangerous when used incorrectly or carelessly. A platform ladder can be a safe, efficient way to accomplish a task when it is correctly positioned and inspected before each use. Whether a facility is using a rolling ladder in the warehouse to move items to/from storage or perform elevated maintenance work, these five tips offer a general overview of the types of best practices facilities should execute to ensure that personnel are operating these mobile structures safely.
What is the first test for rolling ladder?
The location of the object that personnel are trying to reach will ultimately dictate what size of a ladder is required. To properly select a ladder, users should measure the total height of the task and add half the worker’s height to this number. This will provide a safe working height for the individual on the ladder and prevent overreaching injuries.
Inspect Before Use
Personnel should always inspect a ladder before stepping foot on it, checking for cracks, rust, or other structural issues that may compromise its safety and integrity. Additionally, all bolts and rivets should be tightened, and the locking mechanism should be inspected to ensure that it is operational. Finally, all ladders should be positioned on level ground to prevent slips and rolls that can occur during a task.
While on a rolling ladder, it is important that the user maintains three points of contact at all times, with two hands and one foot on the rungs. Moreover, they should face the ladder when climbing up or down and never climb over the top platform. Additionally, workers should rely on a buddy system when climbing taller ladders to help avoid the risk of falling off or dropping items while working.