Types of Ladders
Introduction
Ladders are often the first tool we choose when working at an elevation. This may explain why more workers are injured in falls from ladders than from any other elevated surface - roofs, scaffolds, balconies, even stairs. Why do workers fall from ladders?
Most falls happen because workers select the wrong type of ladder for their job or they set up the ladder improperly and the ladder shifts or slips unexpectedly. Workers also fall when they're not working safely on the ladder - their foot slips, they lose their balance, they overreach, or something knocks the ladder over.
Ladder Selection
Be sure the ladder being used has the proper duty rating to carry the combined weight of the user and the material being installed. A ladder's duty rating tells you its maximum weight capacity. There are five type classifications with associated duty ratings:
- Type IAA - These are special duty ladders. Type IAA ladders are for extra-heavy-duty professional use only.
- Type IA - These ladders have a duty rating of 300 pounds. Type IA ladders are recommended for extra-heavy-duty industrial use.
- Type I - These ladders have a duty rating of 250 pounds. Type I ladders are manufactured for heavy-duty use.
- Type II - These ladders have a duty rating of 225 pounds. Type II ladders are approved for medium-duty use.
- Type III - These ladders have a duty rating of 200 pounds. Type III ladders are rated for light-duty use.
Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.
1-1. Why do most falls from ladders occur?
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