Ladders and step ladders: best practices for working safely

This training will primarily cover the following elements:

• Introduction: situational overview.
• Lesson 1: risks, legal consequences (Zero Tolerance), ladder classes and when to use which.
• Lesson 2: pre-use inspection (straight ladder, extension ladder, step ladder, mobile stairway).
• Lesson 3: safe handling and transportation.
• Lesson 4: safe use of a portable ladder (angle, 3 points of contact, access, electrical clearances).
• Lesson 5: safe use of a step ladder and 9 common mistakes.
• Lesson 6: safe use of mobile stairs and ladder cart.
• Lesson 7: work environment, equipment selection, storage and maintenance.
• Conclusion: summary.

By the end of this training, the participant will be able to:

• Identify the main risks associated with using ladders, step ladders and mobile stairs (falls, loss of balance, electrical hazards, legal consequences).
• Recognize the 5 classes of portable ladders and choose the appropriate class according to the work environment.
• Perform a complete visual inspection before using a ladder, step ladder or mobile stairway.
• Apply the rules for safely handling and transporting a ladder or step ladder.
• Select the right equipment according to the task, duration and work environment.
• Apply safety rules when using a portable ladder (angle, 3 points of contact, landing extension, maximum load).
• Respect the regulated minimum approach distances near electrical sources.
• Use a step ladder safely while avoiding the 9 documented common mistakes.
• Use mobile stairs while following the rules for movement, stabilization and working at height.
• Recognize situations requiring alternative equipment (scaffolding, elevating work platform).
• Apply best practices for storing and maintaining equipment.