March is Ladder Safety Month.
Ladder safety at the Habitat for Humanity of Dutchess County ReStore is essential to ensure the well-being of both staff and volunteers while handling tasks at elevated heights. Whether stocking shelves, retrieving items, or performing maintenance, using ladders properly prevents falls and injuries. Adhering to ladder safety protocols helps create a safe environment, reducing risks and maintaining a productive, efficient workplace. By emphasizing ladder safety, the ReStore ensures that all team members can work confidently, knowing they’re protected from potential accidents.
A common type of fall in a retail setting is caused by misuse of a portable ladder. When using a portable
ladder (step stools, rolling ladders, etc.), it is important to take fall protection steps to prevent a potential
serious injury.
BEFORE USE:
• Choose the correct ladder and ensure it will be adequate for the task (e.g., not too short or too tall).
• Read and follow all labels or markings on the ladder, especially weight limits.
• The ladder should be inspected before each use to make sure it cannot contribute to a fall.
• If defects are found, the ladder should be removed from the sales floor, tagged out of service, and
either repaired or destroyed.
• Visually inspect the area where the ladder will be used for any additional hazards, such as uneven
floors or customer traffic that may impact safe use.
• Ensure the ladder is fully open, the spreaders are secured, and all four feet stay in contact with the floor.
PREVENTING INJURIES:
• Use the “three points of contact” rule (two feet and one hand or two hands and one foot).
• Climb up and down facing the ladder, staying within the framework (aka the “belly button rule”).
• Be aware of potential missteps on the last step of the ladder.
• A ladder should not be moved while a person is working from it.
• Ladder height should not be increased with objects or tables.
• The top two steps of a ladder should not be used, as per manufacturer directives.
• “Straddling,” standing on rails, or sitting on the top of the ladder to perform work should not occur.
• If handling overhead product, ensure that the area is blocked off to prevent workers and customers
from walking underneath the area.