We all know the old superstitions associated with bad luck and ladders, but the immediate reality of ladder safety is a far more serious prospect. Ladder related injuries have steadily been on the rise in recent years and recent statistics seem to indicate that people, even professionals, using proper ladder safety techniques has become the exception as opposed to the rule. Roughly 7 00 deaths in the construction industry a year are attributed to elevated falls out of a annual total of 90,000 related hospitalizations. Ladders are some of the simplest and user-friendly tools in the construction and electronic industries, so most of these unfortunate accidents can be easily avoided. Whether you’re an amateur who’s interested in repainting their home or a seasoned electrician up on the wires, there are number of ways to keep yourself safe and avoid a potentially life-threatening injury. As the Electric Safety Foundation International has chosen to recognize the month of May as National Electric Safety Month, we at MTS Power Products will be continuing to offer some tips for proper electrical equipment safety for whatever project you’re tackling big or small.
It is important to note what kind of ladder that you’re using and if it is right for the particular job at hand. You wouldn’t want to use a stepladder when you really need an extension ladder. To that end, only specially designed non conductive ladders should be used when tackling an electrical project of any kind. Also make sure that the ladder that you’re using is approved for industrial use – this requires it be able to hold at least 250 lbs. Remember, a ladder is a piece of equipment just like any other that you’d use to tackle an electrical or construction project and must be regarded as such. That being said, make sure that you’re using the right ladder for the task at hand and that it has been properly maintained and is ready for use. Ladders are typically composed wood, fiberglass, or aluminum, but each type needs to be inspected for individual problems, such as potentially cracked wood, bent metal components, or faulty bearings. Always make sure that the steps are tight and secure and that all hardware is securely attached to the frame. Also, make sure that steps are reasonably clean to avoid someone potentially slipping while climbing. If you find that ladder is damaged or otherwise not fit for use, clearly mark it as such so that no one else uses it by mistake.
Before climbing any ladder, make sure it is securely positioned with all feet planted firmly level on the ground. Never climb a ladder on an unstable base. It is also important to be aware of your surroundings during any construction or electrical job, so make sure that you’re erecting the ladder in an area where it won’t be knocked over or displaced by the environment or those around you – doorways, driveways, and other busy passages should all be avoided while using a ladder. Although the ladder itself does need consideration, the largest factor in these accidents is still human error. While operating any piece of equipment, it is important to make yourself familiar with and follow any of the manufacturer’s recommended safety information. That said, there are some universally accepted basics – never allow more than one person on a single ladder at once, avoid reaching at all costs, and never stand one the highest platform as it is not meant to hold your weight. It is also heavily advised that you employ the buddy system whenever possible by having someone steady the ladder from the ground while another climbs. Be sure to check back here at MTS Power Products this month for more safety tips!
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