Ladders are a must-have for most warehouses, but they need to be used with caution. Failing to use a ladder properly can result in serious accidents — in some cases even fatal — so employees need through training.
Whether workers come from temp agencies in Lehigh Valley or are hired through your HR department, the importance of ensuring that everyone working with and around a ladder follows proper safety protocols cannot be emphasized enough.
Falls from portable ladders are one of the most common causes of occupational fatalities and injuries, according to the Occupational Safety & Health Administration, so don’t let anyone on your team become a statistic.
10 Rules for Ladder Safety
OSHA has many guidelines in place involving the use of ladders in the workplace. By no means is this list exhaustive, but it’s a start. Emphasize the importance of ladder safety at your warehouse by creating a list of rules and regulations tailored to specific hazards impacting your worksite.
- Anyone using a ladder should read all warnings and instructions prior to mounting.
- Metal ladders should never be used near power lines or exposed energized electrical equipment.
- Ladders and pertinent accessories should not be used for anything beyond their specific purpose.
- A self-supporting ladder shouldn’t be used as a single ladder or inside a partially-closed petition.
- If additional height is needed, get a taller ladder. Never place a ladder on an unstable surface to make it taller.
- Ladders must be inspected prior to each use.
- Ladders containing people or equipment should not be moved or shifted.
- The maximum load on a ladder should never be exceeded. Remember to take the weight of any tools worn by the person on the ladder into consideration.
- If a ladder has the potential to be moved by other warehouse activities, it must be secured or barricaded to keep the area free of traffic.
- Ladders from wood should not contain any opaque covering, with the exception of identification or warning labels on one side rail face.
If you’re an employer looking for top warehouse talent, HTSS, Inc. wants to help. Contact us today to find out how we boost your hiring strategy!