How To Properly Use A Safety Ladder

Trailer ladders are relatively simple tools to use. Injuries from falling off a ladder are unfortunately quite common, with more than 100,000 people treated for them each year. With such alarming numbers, you cannot assume that your workers are familiar with their safety ladders. The following are some tips to help you instruct your workers on how to safely and effectively use these important tools.

Ladder safety guidelines

Safety ladders can help your workers safely climb on or off their flatbed trailers, reach inventory in a warehouse, load cargo, or perform maintenance duties. To safely use ladders, your workers should know what type they need, the weight of their load, and how high they need to reach.

Inspect Ladder

Always inspect your ladder before using it. Look for hazards such as loose steps or nails, broken uprights, and damaged or worn non slip bases. Slips and falls are likely to happen if grease, dirt, or other contaminants have built up on the steps or rails. For this reason, ladders should be cleaned regularly, even non-slip ladders. If the ladder is broken, mark it clearly or get rid of it so no one else accidentally uses it.

Take Your Time

Another important thing to remember when using a safety ladder is to take your time. Never rush when setting your ladder up, or when climbing up or down. Place the ladder on level ground and if you notice that it is unsteady, do not climb. When entering or exiting a truck, it is recommended that drivers maintain three points of contact. The same is true when using a trailer safety ladder. Take hold of the side rails and take one step at a time when you are moving up or down a ladder.

What not to do with safety ladders

Workers should never overextend as they attempt to reach a high location. If their center of gravity is outside the rails or above the top rung, they can lose balance and fall. The ladder should be repositioned if necessary or a taller one should be found. Never fasten multiple ladders together to reach higher locations as this can cause severe injury. If a worker must get to an area where the ladder cannot provide access, a hydraulic lift should be used instead.

Gateway Supply in Pampa, Texas

Safety is a vital element in any workplace. When it comes to loading or unloading flatbed trailers, The Deckmate Ladder is a safe, effective solution to prevent slips and falls. If you would like more information about trailer safety, contact Gateway Supply in Pampa, Texas today. You can call us at (806) 440-1126 or Contact Us by email to learn more about our flatbed trailer safety ladders.

How To Properly Use A Safety Ladder

Ladder safety guidelines

Inspect Ladder

Take Your Time

What not to do with safety ladders

Gateway Supply in Pampa, Texas

Purpose-Built Access for Working Trailers

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