Old Fashioned Ladder Accidents Still Climbing Today

We live in the age of high tech mechanical and engineering marvels. We have lifts that look and act like spiders. We have backhoe attachments that can mimic the powerful jaws of a T-Rex. We even have remote controlled earth movers. Yet one of the oldest and most basic of construction tools remains not only one of the most dangerous, but one of the most consistently sited for safety violations. It's called the ladder.

According to the Occupation Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), violations among contractors who misuse ladders ranks seventh "overall" among "OSHA's top-10 list of 'serious violations'-those in which 'there is substantial probability that death or serious physical harm could result.'" These violations are so serious that they often result in six-figure fines.

How can you avoid these fines and more importantly, stop risking life and limb? By choosing the right ladder for the right job. The most common violation is using a ladder that is either too short or too long. The ladder is too short, you find yourself overreaching and leaning. If it's too long, you end up angling it at an "unsafe pitch" which can cause the bottom "feet" to slip out.

According to safety professionals, the proper method for choosing an extension ladder of the right height is to go with the 4-to-1 ratio. That is, setting "the ladder back 1 foot for every 4 feet of length to the upper support point."

But ladder safety doesn't begin and end there. Construction tools take a beating. Ladders are no exception. It's crucial that you inspect your ladder before using it. Look for damaged areas and parts. And never use duct tape or rope for a quick fix.

Are you an engineer or contractor who does a lot of climbing? What are you doing to make sure your ladders are safe?

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