Toolbox talk, Equipment, about 7 minutes
Ladder safety
Date
Site or job
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Why this one
Ladders feel simple, so people rush them. A bad setup, a damaged rail or a reach too far can put a worker on the ground fast. A short check before the climb is cheap.
Say this
- 1.Pick the right ladder for the job. Check its duty rating against you plus your tools.
- 2.Inspect it every time. Look for bent rails, cracked or missing rungs, loose parts and slick spots.
- 3.Pull any damaged ladder out of service and tag it. Don't repair it with tape or bolts.
- 4.Set it on firm, level ground. Don't prop it on boxes, buckets or loose blocks.
- 5.Set the angle and the top extension per the maker's label and your procedure.
- 6.Face the ladder. Keep three points of contact and carry tools on a belt or hoist them.
- 7.Keep your belt buckle between the rails. Climb down and move it when you can't reach.
Ask the crew
- – What's the most common shortcut you see on a ladder, and what could go wrong?
- – When is a ladder the wrong tool, and what would you use instead?
- – Who checks the ladders on this job, and where do we tag a bad one?
Watch for today
- Ladders with damaged rails, missing feet, loose rungs or paint hiding cracks.
- Ladders set near doors, traffic or overhead lines without a barricade or spotter.
- Anyone standing on the top step or carrying a load in both hands.
Close with: Inspect it, set it, face it, three points.
Notes and questions raised
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A starting point. Adapt it to your job, your procedures and the rules that apply to you. portalbaseai.com/toolbox-talks