CARE AND USE OF STEP LADDERS:

This standard applies to all stepladders used in our buildings

REQUIREMENTS
1. Use a standard wood industrial or heavy-duty step ladders equipped with non-
skid cleats.
2. Ladders after proper inspection may be finished, but, since paint will hide
defects, use a clear varnish or wood preservative to protect a ladder from
decay.
3. Non-conductive fibreglass or wood stepladders should be used instead of metal
stepladders while performing electrical work.
4. Always inspect a ladder before using it. A wobbly ladder or a ladder with
broken steps, side rails or hardware should not be used. A wobbly ladder
should be repaired by tightening the hardware or by moving the truss blocks
under the steps to tighten the step. A ladder with a broken or cracked step, side
rail or hardware should be destroyed by sawing all the steps in half or by
incineration. Improvised repairs shall not be made.
5. Always open ladder completely and be sure spreader is in locked position.
6. To prevent tipping, non-skid cleats should be used when a ladder is used on an
inclined surface. Adequate bearing plates should be used when a stepladder is
placed on a soft footing.
7. Do not stand on the paint shelf. The paint shelf on the strongest ladder is
designed to carry only fifty pounds.
8. Do not climb higher than the second step from the top.
9. If the job requires considerable time or numerous operations, a platform ladder should

be used.