Nature vs. Ladders: Weather Hazards You Can't Ignore
The Problem
Weather is a silent but persistent force. While we often think about how it affects us directly—wet boots, slippery surfaces, or freezing temperatures—it’s easy to overlook the impact it has on our tools and equipment, especially ladders. Over time, exposure to weather can weaken the safety and integrity of ladders, creating hazards that might not be immediately obvious. Today, we’ll explore how weather conditions affect ladder safety and what we can do to protect ourselves and our gear.
Identify the Hazards
Weather creates both immediate and long-term hazards:
Moisture (Rain and Wet Conditions):
- Immediate risks: Slippery rungs, unstable or soft ground, reduced visibility.
- Long-term damage: Rust on metal parts, waterlogged timber ladders, faded safety labels, weakened fixings.
Freezing Temperatures:
- Ice on rungs and ground surfaces increases slip hazards.
- Ice inside hollow rungs can cause internal damage.
Sunlight (UV Exposure):
- Gradual weakening of fibreglass ladders.
- Brittle timber ladders from prolonged drying.
- Faded or illegible safety labels reduce safe use.
Wind:
- Gusts can destabilise ladders.
- Wind-blown debris increases trip and fall hazards.
- Strong wind can knock workers off balance when climbing.
Safety Practices and Preventative Measures
1. Storage Solutions
- Store ladders in covered, dry areas to protect against moisture and UV exposure.
- Elevate ladders off the ground to prevent contact with standing water.
- Secure ladders when stored outside to prevent wind damage.
2. Usage Precautions
- Wipe ladders dry before use to prevent slipping.
- Assess the ground for firmness—avoid using ladders on muddy or frozen surfaces.
- Secure ladders at the top and bottom when using in windy conditions.
- Postpone ladder use in high winds, storms, or heavy rain.
3. Maintenance Requirements
- Check metal components for corrosion or rust.
- Replace worn, faded, or unreadable safety labels.
- Immediately repair or replace damaged or waterlogged parts.
- Record weather-related damage during ladder inspections.
Real-Life Case or Scenario
At one site, a metal ladder was left outside during a cold snap. Ice formed on the rungs, making them dangerously slippery. A worker climbing the ladder slipped and fell. Additionally, the ladder had internal rust damage from long-term exposure to rain, compromising its strength. This accident could have been avoided with proper ladder storage and inspection.
Employee Responsibilities
- Inspect ladders for weather-related damage before each use.
- Report any damage or unsafe conditions.
- Use ladders only in safe weather conditions.
- Properly store ladders to reduce exposure to the elements.
Employer Responsibilities
- Provide secure and weather-protected ladder storage.
- Schedule regular inspections and maintenance.
- Train workers on identifying and managing weather-related hazards.
- Replace or repair damaged ladders promptly.
Discussion & Questions
- “How do we currently protect our ladders from the weather?”
- “What weather conditions are most challenging for ladder use on our sites?”
- “Has anyone experienced a weather-related incident involving ladders?”
- “What improvements can we make to our storage and maintenance processes?”
Commitment/Action Plan
Let’s all commit to checking ladders before each use and storing them properly at the end of every job. Keep them dry, away from UV and moisture, and report any wear or damage straight away.
Wrap-Up
Weather damage to ladders often goes unnoticed—until something fails. With regular inspections, proper storage, and awareness of weather risks, we can avoid serious incidents. Thanks for making ladder safety a priority.
Standards Overview
WorkSafe New Zealand requires all ladders to be in good working condition and regularly inspected. Environmental and weather conditions must be considered when using ladders. Damaged ladders must be removed from use and repaired or replaced.
Disclaimer
These toolbox talks are provided for informational and educational purposes only and are not a substitute for professional legal, health and safety, or regulatory advice.
The content reflects recognised best practices and general industry standards as at the date of publication. However, it may not be applicable to all workplace environments or specific operational contexts.
It is the responsibility of the Person Conducting a Business or Undertaking (PCBU), as well as officers, workers, and other duty holders under the Health and Safety at Work Act 2015 (HSWA), to ensure compliance with all relevant laws, regulations, and WorkSafe New Zealand guidance.
The authors, presenters, and distributors of this toolbox talk disclaim all liability for any loss, damage, or injury arising from the use or reliance on the information provided. Users should seek advice from a suitably qualified health and safety professional or legal advisor for guidance tailored to their specific circumstances.
Always follow your organisation’s policies, procedures, and safe work practices to manage risks and maintain a safe and healthy workplace.
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