If you’re in the construction industry, you understand the importance of following safe practices. From wearing safety equipment like reflective vests and hard hats to making sure hazards are marked, safety is rightfully the number one priority at a construction site. But safety practices can sometimes be overlooked because they’re thought to be “common sense.” We want to bring to light the importance of reading and understanding all warnings before using ladders.
Simple, but Dangerous
Ladders are often overlooked but can be an extremely dangerous addition to a job site if the proper precautions aren’t taken. It can be easy to focus on the hazards associated with more hazardous tools like welding tools or solder irons. Make sure you spend the same amount of time familiarizing yourself and your staff with the appropriate precautions and safety procedures associated with each piece of equipment you’ll be using.
What are the Precautions?
Using personal protective equipment like hard hats and lanyards can help keep you safe in the event of a fall, but what about preventing the fall, to begin with? When you are using a ladder, make sure it’s on flat, even ground, and the legs of the ladder are separated enough to prevent it from falling. Additionally, it’s important never to exceed the weight limit, and don’t climb on the top step. The good news is that these precautions are common sense to lots of construction professionals, but it’s best to take the time to review them just in case. It’s also a good idea to familiarize yourself with the specific equipment you’ll be working with.
Whether it’s your first day on the job or you’ve been working with ladders for years, it’s still important to take the time and make sure you’re aware of the dangers and hazards you’ll be working with. Educating yourself on proper procedures and protocol can drastically reduce the number of workplace accidents that occur. For more information about ladder safety, visit our site here.
