credit: The safeguard group

Falls from elevated surfaces are frequently listed as
most common causes of major accidents in the
construction industry in Ghana. Most of these accidents
occur due to workers not following basic ladder safety. In this article,  I will list some important keynotes to enduring safe use of ladders on construction sites.To help prevent ladder injuries on the jobsite, practice the following safety tips.

Setting up Safely
Make sure you select the correct ladder for the job –
check the length and duty rating. Proper length is a
minimum of three feet extending over the roofline or
working surface.

Inspect your ladder before each use for loose or
damaged parts, such as the following:
• Steps
• Rungs
• Spreaders
• Rung dogs
• Safety feet
• Other parts

Clear the area where you will be working. Never place
a ladder in front of a door that isn’t locked, blocked or
guarded.
Because metal ladders conduct electricity, use a
wooden or fiberglass ladder near power lines or
electrical equipment.

Check that all locks on extension ladders are properly
engaged before placing your ladder on a steady
surface. The ground underneath the ladder should
be level and firm. Large, flat wooden boards braced
underneath a ladder can help level it on an uneven
surface or soft ground. Straight, single or extension
ladders should be set up at approximately a 75
degree angle.

Use the 1:4 ratio to ensure your safety when on a
ladder. Place the base of the ladder one foot away
from whatever it’s leaning against for every four feet
of height up to the point of contact for the top of the
ladder.

Credit: Safe work SA

Use Caution
Always use caution when using a ladder at your
construction site, and never use a ladder for any other
purpose than intended.

Other safety considerations include the following:
• Make sure the weight that your ladder is
supporting does not exceed its maximum load
rating (user plus materials). Only one person
should be on a ladder at a time.

• Keep your body centered between the rails of
the ladder at all times. Do not lean too far to the
side while working. Never overreach—instead,
descend from the ladder and move it to a better
position.

• Do not step on the top step, bucket shelf or
attempt to climb or stand on the rear section of a
stepladder.

Credit: Safety first consulting Toronto

• Always face the ladder when climbing up or
down. Never leave a raised ladder unattended.

• Slowly step down from a ladder if you feel dizzy
or tired.

• Non-slip footwear should be worn at all times
when on a ladder at a construction site.
Minimize ladder accidents by adhering to these safety
and prevention tips.

By implementing these preventive measures and promoting a culture of safety awareness and compliance, construction workers can significantly reduce the risk of falls from ladders and ensure a safe working environment on construction sites.