- PURPOSE
1.1 This procedure outlines safe work practices to prevent injuries due to falls from fixed or portable ladders.
1.2 This procedure is not intended to serve as a design standard for ladders, platforms, or other work surfaces. Design specifications can be found in the engineering standards and local regulations.
- SCOPE
2.1 This procedure applies to all Company site personnel, contractors, and visitors whose work activities require the use of portable or fixed ladders. The requirements of this procedure must be applied to all work activities that may expose individuals to falls from fixed or portable ladders. Company management (or designee) must ensure that contractor personnel comply with the provisions of this procedure.
- DEFINITIONS
3.1 Extension Ladder – A non-self-supporting portable ladder adjustable in length. It consists of two or more sections traveling in guides or brackets so arranged as to permit length adjustment. Its size is designated by the sum of the lengths of the sections measured along the rails.
3.2 Fixed Ladder – A ladder that cannot be readily moved or carried because it is an integral part of a building or structure. A side-step fixed ladder is one that requires a person getting off at the top to step to the side of the ladder side rails to reach a landing. A through fixed ladder is one that requires a person getting off at the top to step between the side rails of the ladder to reach the landing.
3.3 Maximum Intended Load – The total load of all users, equipment, tools, materials, transmitted loads, and other loads anticipated to be applied to a ladder component at any one time.
3.4 Portable Ladder – A ladder that can be readily moved or carried.
3.5 Securely Tied Off – Means attached to a fixed object with a rope, cable, webbing, or similar material that is of sufficient strength to prevent movement. Typically a material capable of supporting a load greater than 300 pounds (136 Kg) is sufficient.
3.6 Single Ladder – A non self-supporting portable ladder, nonadjustable in length, consisting of a single section. Its size is determined by the overall length of the side rail.
3.7 Stepladder – A self-supporting portable ladder, nonadjustable in length, having flat steps and a hinged back. Its size is designated by the overall length of the ladder measured along the front edge of the side rails.
- SUMMARY
4.1 Requirements of this procedure must be applied in all cases where work activities involve the use of fixed or portable ladders.
4.1.1 You must
- Provide and use ladders that are rated for the intended industrial service.
- Train workers in the proper inspection and use of ladders.
- Use ladders in accordance with this standard and the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Inspect portable ladders before each use and after any event that could cause damage.
- Inspect fixed and portable ladders per schedule and document the inspection on the inspection checklist or an equivalent document.
- Maintain ladders per the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Store ladders to avoid damage.
- PROCEDURE
5.1 General Requirements
5.1.1 Fixed Ladders
5.1.1.1 Fixed ladders must be designed and installed to Company and local regulatory standards.
5.1.1.2 Fixed ladders must be inspected (prior to commissioning and at least annually thereafter) and maintained as follows:
- The ladder, supports, and supporting structure are free of wear, damage, or corrosion that can adversely affects the structural integrity.
- Rungs are clear of any debris, such as oil, ice, or any substance that could create a slipping hazard.
- Safety cages must not have any damage or cage rails bent.
- All self-closing safety gates must be operating correctly.
- Fixed ladders must be securely attached to the structure, building, or equipment.
- All hand hold areas must be clear of protruding objects.
5.1.2 Portable Ladders
5.1.2.1 Portable ladders consist of three types: stepladders, single ladders and multiple-section (extension) ladders.
5.1.2.2 All portable ladders must be designed for industrial use and the intended service. Construction built ladders are not acceptable.
5.1.2.3 Portable ladders must be less than or equal to the following maximum length (height) boundaries.
- Stepladders – 6 m (20 feet)
- Single ladders – 10 m (30 feet)
- Multiple-section ladders – 20 m (60 feet)
5.2 Inspection Requirements
5.2.1 Frequency
- Prior to use – visually inspect ladders for any obvious defects.
- At least every twelve months – Perform a planned, documented inspection (refer to Appendixes A and B).
- Also, inspect ladders immediately following incidents where they are dropped or fall, exposed to excessive heat or flame, or exposed to potentially degrading chemicals.
5.2.2 Inspection Documentation
5.2.2.1 Inspection Checklists – Use the checklists in Appendixes A and B or the equivalent. Electronic planned maintenance documents are acceptable as long as they include the information in Appendixes A and B.
5.2.2.2 Labels – Following the Documented 12 Month Inspection, attach a visual indicator of inspection. This indicator informs users that the ladder inspection is current.
5.2.2.3 Guidance: Indicator types.
- Inspection Label
- Color Coded Tie Wrap / Tape
5.2.3 Inspection Criteria
5.2.3.1 The following conditions are necessary for ladders to pass inspection:
- The ladder is in good condition maintained at all times. Free of cracks, splintering, and other structural damage.
- Tight joints between the steps and the side rails.
- Secure hardware and fittings.
- Moveable parts that operate freely without binding or undue play.
- Ropes free from fraying and wear.
- Safety feet that are clean and in good working condition.
5.2.3.2 Ladders may not pass inspection if any of the following situations are present:
- Loose, bent, or cracked rungs.
- Dirty or greasy rungs.
- Worn ropes or pulleys.
- Malfunctioning and unclean safety feet.
- Worn or defective braces or locking mechanisms.
- Protruding objects, sharp edges, or splinters.
- Improper load rating for the work to be performed.
- Insecure rivets or fasteners.
- Visual indication of decay, corrosion, or compression or fatigue damage.
5.2.3.3 Tag and remove from service any ladder failing to pass inspection. Use a DANGER, DO NOT USE, or a similar tag stating the equivalent. If the ladder cannot be repaired to manufacturer’s specifications, it must be destroyed.
5.3 Safe Work Practices
Ladders must be used in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions and local regulations. In addition, the following safety precautions must be observed when using ladders:
5.3.1 Use ladders for their designed purpose
- Do not use metal ladders for electrical work, in electrical buildings or rooms, or in the vicinity of (5 m [15 ft]) of exposed conductors.
- Do not use ladders as horizontal platforms, runways, or scaffold work surfaces.
- Work within the rated load limits. Do not use ladders simultaneously by more than one person unless designed for multi-person use.
- When using fixed or portable ladders, avoid more than one person on the ladder at the same time.
- Ladders used as scaffolding support ends or with ladder jacks must be rated for this use.
- Do not splice ladders together to provide longer sections.
- Do not use ladders guys, braces, or skids, or for any reason other than their intended purpose.
5.3.2 Visually inspect the ladder before each use (see the inspection section for detailed inspection requirements).
5.3.3 Place ladders to prevent falls, collapse, or slippage.
- Place ladders so they will not be struck by people, equipment, doors, or vehicles.
- Use a guard or barricade when using a ladder in a traffic area.
- Never place ladders in front of doors opening toward the ladder unless the door is blocked open, locked or guarded.
- Place ladders to prevent slipping. Support the feet of the ladder on a firm and level surface.Feet must not rest on loose material or equipment to gain extra height.
- On surfaces where possible slipping hazards are present, that is, oily, metal, wet concrete, etc., extreme caution place and secured the ladder to eliminate the slip hazard.
- Unattended ladders must be securely tied off to prevent movement.
- Place single and multiple section ladders at a suitable angle; ideally at approximately 75o to the horizontal (that is, about 1 m out for every 4 m in height).
- Place the top of single and multiple section ladders against a surface that is capable of supporting the load.
- so they extend at least 1.05 m (3’6″) above the landing place or highest rungs used.
- Engage the locks on multiple section ladders.
- For multiple-section ladders, maintain the following minimum section overlap:
|
Size of Ladder |
Overlap Requirements |
| Up to and including 5 m (16 feet) | 1½ rungs |
| Over 5 m (16 feet) up to and including 6 m (20 feet) | 2½ rungs |
| Over 6 m (20 feet) up to and including 12 m (36 feet) | 3½ rungs |
| Over 36 feet up to and including 48 feet | 4½ rungs |
| Over 48 feet up to and including 60 feet | 6 rungs |
- Fully extend the locking mechanisms on portable step ladders.
- Do not use the top two steps of a stepladder as a step or seat unless the ladder has a manufacturer’s designed integrated work platform.
5.3.4 Protect yourself against falls
- Where work is to be performed above 2 m (6 ft) in height, ladders must be securely tied off to prevent movement or an attendant present to hold the ladder while work is being performed.
- Where work is to be performed above 2 m (6 ft) in height use a fall protection system as described in 01.05.21, Fall Protection, whenever possible.
- When climbing ladders, keep both hands free to grip the ladder and maintain three points of contact with the ladder.
- Loose tools must not be hand carried when ascending or descending ladders. Light tools should be carried in a belt holster or toolbag. Heavy tools and materials should be raised or lowered with a rope or hoist.
- Do not use extension ladders for any access when plants are in a single person mode of operation unless a person-down surveillance system is in place.
- Keep your body within the rails of the ladder. Avoid over-reaching, reposition the ladder for access.
5.4 Care of Portable Ladders
5.4.1 Provide and Use Proper Storage Areas
- Designate ladder storage locations.
- Store ladders in clean dry area.
- Provide storage racks that protect the ladders against wear or damage and from falling.
5.4.2 Maintain ladders as per the manufacturer’s instructions.
5.5 Training Requirements
5.5.1 Each employee who is expected to use, inspect, or maintain ladders must be trained in the following:
- The general hazards and control measures associated with ladder use.
- Proper construction, use, placement, and care in handling ladders.
- How to visually inspect ladders.
- Maximum intended load-carrying capacities of ladders used.
- Manufacturer’s instructions.
- Any local regulatory training requirements associated with ladders.
5.5.2 Refresher training must be conducted at five year intervals or more frequently if work practices/
performance shows a need to improve skill and knowledge.
- RELATED INFORMATION
6.1 Company EH&S Document
01.05.21 Fall Protection
Portable Ladder Inspection Checklist
- Rungs or Steps
Tight, free of bends, cracks, splinters, decay, or fatigue
damage., Clean - Side Rails
Straight and free of bends, cracks, splinters, decay, or fatigue damage. - Ropes
Secure, free of damage - Pulleys
Secure, operate freely, lubricated - Safety feet
Clean and functional, bolts are secure - Braces and locking mechanisms
Secure, Work properly - Handholds
Clear of protruding objects or splinters - Load rating
Correct for the expected tasks / use - Rivets and Fasteners
All secure - Wooden parts free of splinters, cracks, bulging, decay, or fatigue damage.
Note 1: Any ladder failing inspection must be removed from service, repaired (fixed ladders only) or replaced.
Fixed Ladder Inspection Checklist
- Ladder Structure
Free of damage or corrosion that affects structural integrity - Supports
Welds in good condition
The structure it is attached to are in good condition - Rungs
Clear of debris (oil, ice) - Safety Cages
In place and free of damage or bent cage straps - Self Closing Gates
Working properly, securely Attached - Handhold
Clear of protruding objects