Safe Ladder Transportation
The Problem
Transporting ladders improperly is one of the leading causes of ladder damage, and a damaged ladder is an unsafe ladder. Dragging, dropping, or failing to secure ladders can compromise their safety and lead to accidents on the job. Today, we’ll discuss the risks associated with improper ladder transportation and provide solutions to ensure your ladders remain safe for use.
Identify the Hazards
- Dragging or Dropping Ladders: Causes cracks, dents, or bent stiles that weaken the ladder’s structure.
- Improper Vehicle Transport: Ladders that are unsecured can shift during transport, fall off vehicles, or suffer vibration damage.
- Oversized Overhangs: Transporting ladders that hang too far over vehicle racks can cause flexing and long-term structural weakening.
Safety Practices and Preventative Measures
Transporting Ladders by Hand
- Avoid Dragging Ladders: Never drag a ladder or let it fall from a vehicle. If a ladder is too heavy, ask for assistance.
- Watch for Blind Corners: Move carefully around corners to avoid striking people or equipment.
- Secure Folding Ladders: Use rope or twine to keep sections closed during transport.
- Lower Extension Ladders: Always retract the upper section to reduce weight and strain when carrying.
Transporting Ladders on Vehicles
- Gentle Placement: Place ladders gently onto racks or vehicle trays — never throw or drop them.
- Secure Ladders Properly:
• Lay the ladder flat and balanced.
• Use ropes or straps to prevent movement.
• Add padding between the ladder and the rack to reduce vibration damage.
- Avoid Overhangs: Minimize ladder overhang beyond the rack. Long overhangs can cause bending and flexing.
Post-Transport Inspection
- Inspect for Damage: Check for cracks, dents, or bends in stiles and rungs, and loose or missing components.
- Follow Manufacturer Guidelines: Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for transporting and inspecting ladders.
Real-Life Case or Scenario
A ladder was thrown into the back of a pickup truck and left unsecured. It bounced around during transport, cracking a side stile. The damage went unnoticed until the ladder failed under a worker’s weight, resulting in a fall. This incident could have been prevented by following proper transport and inspection procedures.
Employee Responsibilities
- Handle ladders carefully to prevent damage.
- Secure ladders properly on vehicles using approved straps and padding.
- Inspect ladders after transport and report any damage immediately.
Employer Responsibilities
- Provide appropriate vehicle racks, tie-downs, and protective materials.
- Train workers in safe ladder handling and transport procedures.
- Remove damaged ladders from service promptly.
Discussion & Questions
- Have you ever seen a ladder get damaged due to improper transport? What was the outcome?
- What techniques do you use to ensure ladders are transported safely?
Encourage team members to share their experiences and insights.
Commitment/Action Plan
Let’s commit to always handling ladders with care and inspecting them after transport. From now on, make it routine to secure ladders properly and check them before use. Report any issues immediately to help prevent injuries.
Wrap-Up
Transporting ladders safely is the first step to using them safely. When we all take care in how we move and store ladders, we reduce the risk of damage and help prevent injuries. Thank you for putting safety first.
Standards Overview
While Canadian occupational health and safety regulations do not specify a particular standard for ladder transportation, they require all equipment—including ladders—to be inspected and maintained in safe condition. Under federal and provincial legislation, all plant and equipment must be kept safe to use. Poor transport practices that cause damage may result in regulatory non-compliance.
Disclaimer
“The information provided in this toolbox talk is intended for informational and educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional legal, safety, or regulatory advice. The content reflects general best practices and industry standards but may not be applicable to all workplace environments or jurisdictions.
It is the responsibility of employers, supervisors, and workers to ensure compliance with applicable federal, provincial, and territorial laws, regulations, and standards, including but not limited to those set by the Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety (CCOHS) and relevant provincial occupational health and safety authorities. Site App Pro, its affiliates, agents, or representatives—as well as the authors, presenters, and distributors of this toolbox talk—assume no liability for the use or application of the information provided.
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