Toolbox Talk – Do’s & Don’ts Ladder Storage & Handling

Toolbox Talk – do’s & don’ts of ladder storage & handling. A ladder should always be stored horizontally for maximum security & safety when not in use. If stored vertically, the ladder could fall off the support system & cause damage or harm. Be sure to use more ladder storage hooks, ropes, or other tools if you have a longer ladder. Improper storage may cause your ladder to deteriorate and become unsafe to use – or it could end up being stolen.

What is the proper way to store ladders?

• Return ladders to the storage area after use.
• Store ladders where they are protected from the weather.
• Store ladders where people or machinery will not come in contact with it unintentionally.
• Keep ladders clean & free of foreign materials.
• Ensure that storage areas are easy to reach.
• Keep wooden ladders in a well-ventilated location, away from dampness & excessive heat.
• Avoid long overhangs beyond support points when transporting ladders on vehicles.
• Grasp ladders near the centre when carrying them.
• Use caution when carrying ladders through passageways, doorways or any place where your view is obstructed.
• Use a partner to help carry long or heavy ladders.
• Make sure that you and your partner are on the same side when carrying a ladder. Stay in step. Work out in advance any hand or voice signals to coordinate stopping or changing direction.
• Always tag and remove from service a defective ladder for repair by a person authorized by the manufacturer, or replace it.
• Unsafe ladders are to be locked out and tagged as “UNSAFE FOR USE”

What should you avoid when storing ladders?

• Do not hang ladders from rails or rungs.
• Do not store materials on ladders.
• Do not store ladders in a way that they might fall on a person, cause a trip or otherwise cause an injury.
• Do not expose fibreglass ladders to excessive temperatures (above 93°C or 200°F).
• Do not use a ladder that is unstable.
• Do not hold the front of ladders at head level when carrying them.
• Do not use a ladder which has been exposed to heat or fire. Inspect visually, and check for its strength characteristics.
• Do not expose plastic-reinforced ladders to excessive sunlight. Ultraviolet light may cause the plastic resins to degrade. If the strength of the ladder is questionable, replace the ladder.

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