Competent Person Ladders
Ladder Safety
Ladders are one of the most common tools used by workers. Unfortunately, most workers learn how to use a ladder from their youth watching neighbors and other adults abuse ladders. They apparently were not aware of the dangers associated with ladders. The primary danger being falls from heights. Therefore, most ladder training concentrates on how to prevent falls by making sure the ladder is in good condition, set up properly and climbed correctly, leaving out other potential hazards. U.S Safety provides two ladder courses. The first course provides training for anyone who must use a ladder, the second is for a company’s Competent Person.
4-Hour Competent Person Training
This training is specific and covers all the materials in the user training, but in much more detail. Time is spent discussing:
• The various types of ladders and the limitations of each
• Detailed ladder inspections including blooming and its hazards
• Ladder maintenance and limited shop repairs
• Specific Ladder Safety Requirements – The dos and don’ts
• Stairway Requirements – OSHA, IBC, ADA, and EM 385 Standards
• Ladder Written Program
• Competent Person Responsibilities