Height limits and fall protection measures for portable ladders

Portable ladders are a great tool, but if used improperly, they can quickly become dangerous. If you don't understand the height limit of the ladder and fall protection, it can become a disaster. This is what you should know.

Climbing stairs is a high-altitude operation

If you think you are working at heights because you climbed stairs for work, then you are not. When the stairs are fixed in a building, you will not work at high places because you have to climb the stairs.

Although scaffolding can provide better options, ladders can of course be used on construction sites. As long as you use ladders correctly, they can be used on any construction site, but scaffolding can provide a better aerial work platform.

Don't fall into these misunderstandings when working from a height. Choose the right ladder or scaffolding for your workplace, as long as you use your choice safely, you don't have to worry about these.

1. Ladder fall statistics

From 2000 to 2009, falls from ladders accounted for more than 40% of all fatal falls. In addition, ladders are part of 81% of fall accidents involving construction workers. These statistics show that more attention needs to be paid to the safety of ladders.

2. Know your ladder

Understanding height limits and fall protection starts with understanding your ladder. You want to make sure to buy quality ladders from reputable dealers. Then, you should check it yourself to make sure it is a good ladder that can be used safely.

Make sure you understand the height limit of the ladder. For example, if you are using a 27-foot extension ladder, you cannot exceed 24 feet because the ladder needs to extend at least 3 feet above the height of the building's roof.

The same goes for ladders. If you buy a 20-foot ladder, you cannot expect to work at a height of 20 feet. Since you will not be able to stand on the top rung or even the first two rungs, in some cases, you will not be as high as you think.

3. Fall protection

In addition to knowing your ladder and height restrictions, you should also invest in fall protection when you reach a certain height. This height may vary from job to job, but the standard is 24 feet. When you work with a ladder that is 24 feet or higher, you should use a fall protection device. Of course, if you think it is necessary, you can also use these devices with shorter ladders.

When it comes to ladder height restrictions and fall protection, you should know what you need and why. It is important to understand your ladder and use appropriate safety measures, otherwise you may become statistical data.