Author: Paul Roberts Revision #: Rev.

3
Approved By: Chris Peoples Date Revised: March 2023
SAFETY POLICY & PROCEDURE

Ladders SPP# 1910.23

Quick Reference

Contents
1.0 Purpose……………………………………………………………………………………….2
2.0 Scope and Applicability …………………………………………………………….…..…2
4.0 Policy ………………………………………………………………..…………………….….2
5.0 General Responsibilities……………………………………………………….…….…….2
6.0 Procedure………………………………………………………………………….…….……2
6.1 Definitions…………………………………………………………………………....…..3
6.2 General Provisions…………………………………………………………………......5
6.2.1 Employee Training ..……………………………………………………………...5
6.2.2 Ladder Types………….……………………………………………………….…..6
6.2.3 Capacity Ratings.…….…………………………………………………………....8
6.2.4 Ladder Hazards……….………………………………………………………..…..9
6.2.5 Ladder Use…………….…………………………………………………………....9
6.2.6 Ladder Safety Devices for Fixed Ladders…………..…………………….….10
6.2.7 Inspection….……….…………………………………….…………….….……....11
6.3 Specific Responsibilities………………………………………………………...........11
6.3.1 Managers/Unit Heads ..…………………………………….…………….………11
6.2.2 Supervisors………….……………………………………………………….…….11
6.2.3 Employees…….…….……………………………………………………….……..12
6.2.4 Safety & Risk Management……………………………………………….……..12
Appendix A: Ladder Inspection Checklist and Log…………………………………………13

1
 SAFETY POLICY & PROCEDURE
1.0 Purpose
The purpose of this safety policy and procedure is to establish guidelines for the safe
use ofladders throughout North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT).

2.0 Scope and Applicability

Ladders are used when employees need to move up or down between two different
levels.Slips, trips, and falls are significant contributors to incidents resulting in
injuries to employees using ladders. Slips, trips, and falls can occur when wrong
ladder selection is made, when improper climbing techniques, and/or defective
ladders are used.
This safety policy and procedure provides guidelines for the safe use of ladders. It
presentsdiscussion on the types of ladders, the use of ladders, and inspection and
maintenance requirements.
This document also details the areas of responsibility for managers/unit heads,
supervisors,employees, and Safety and Risk Management.
This safety policy and procedure applies to all NCDOT employees who use ladders.

3.0 Reference
This safety policy and procedure is established in accordance with Occupational Safety
and Health Standards for General Industry (29 CFR 1910.23) and Occupational Safety
and HealthStandards for the Construction Industry (29 CFR 1926.1053).

4.0 Policy
It is the policy of NCDOT to provide a place of employment that is free from
recognized hazards that cause or are likely to cause death or serious physical harm to
employees or thepublic. Therefore in NCDOT, the appropriate ladder will be used
for the corresponding joband defective ladders shall not be used. When hazards exist
that cannot be eliminated, thenengineering practices, administrative practices, safe
work practices, Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), and proper training regarding
ladders will be implemented. These measures will be implemented to minimize those
hazards to ensure the safety of employeesand the public.

5.0 General Responsibilities

It is the responsibility of each manager/unit head, supervisor, and employee to
ensureimplementation of NCDOT’s safety policy and procedure on Ladders. It
is also the
responsibility of each NCDOT employee to report immediately any unsafe act or
conditionto his or her supervisor. Specific responsibilities are found in Section 6.3.

6.0 Procedure
This section provides applicable definitions, establishes general provisions, and
identifiesresponsibilities required by NCDOT's safety policy and procedure on
Ladders.
Ladders 2
 SAFETY POLICY & PROCEDURE
6.1 Definitions
Angle of Inclination
The preferred pitch for portable non-self-supporting ladders.
Articulated Joint
A portable ladder with one or more pairs of locking articulated joints which allow the ladder to
be set up in several modes such as a straight or extension ladder, with or without a stand-off, as a
regular or double front stepladder, scaffold or worktable.
Articulated Extendable Ladder
A portable ladder with one or more pairs of locking articulated joints and extendable sections
which allow the ladder to be set up in several modes such as a straight or extension ladder, with
or without a stand-off, as a regular or double front stepladder, scaffold, or worktable.
Cage or Well
A guard that may be referred to as a basket guard which is an enclosure that is fastened to theside
rails of the fixed ladder or to the structure to encircle the climbing space of the ladder forthe safety
of the person who must climb a fixed ladder greater than 24’ in height.
Combination Ladder
A portable ladder capable of being used either as a stepladder or as a single or extension ladder.
It may also be capable of being used as a trestle ladder or a stairwell ladder. Its components may
be used as single ladders.
Extension Ladder
Non-self-supporting portable ladder adjustable in length. It consists of two or more sections;
(1) Base section, (2) Fly section/s) the fly section/s traveling in guides or brackets so arranged
as to permit length adjustment. Its size is designated by the sum of the lengths of thesections
measured along the side rails. It is intended for use by one person.
Extension Trestle Ladder
A self-supporting portable ladder, adjustable in length, consisting of a trestle ladder base and a
vertically adjustable extension section, with a suitable means for locking the ladders together.
Fixed Ladder
Ladder permanently attached to a structure, building, or equipment.
Ladder
A device with rungs, steps, or cleats used to gain access to a different elevation.
Ladder Feet
Allow the ladder legs to grip the ground and may be made of plastic or rubber to grab a flatsurface.
Some ladders will have feet with cleats that dig into the ground or surface and are hinged to the
bottom of the leg in place of the feet.
Ladder Hinges/Spreaders
Folding pieces of metal used to firmly hold sections of a step ladder in place when spread
apart.
Mobile Ladder Stand
A mobile, fixed-height, self-supporting ladder that usually consists of wheels or casters on a
rigid base and steps leading to a top step. A mobile ladder stand will have handrails and is
designed for use by one employee at a time.

Ladders 3
 SAFETY POLICY & PROCEDURE

Mobile Ladder Stand Platform

A mobile, fixed-height, self-supporting ladder having a standing platform at the top that provide
a means of access to items at elevated heights. Ladder portion will have handrailsand standing
platform will have guardrails and toe
Personal Fall Arrest System
A system used to arrest an employee in a fall from a walking-working surface. It consists of a
body harness, anchorage, and connector. The means of connection may include a lanyard,
deceleration device, lifeline, or a suitable combination of these.
Pitch
The included angle between the horizontal and the ladder, measured on the opposite side ofthe
ladder from the climbing side. It is usually expressed as the ratio H/L, which is the horizontal
distance H from the base of the ladder to the supporting surface divided by the working length
L of the ladder.
Platform Ladder
A self-supporting portable ladder of fixed size with a platform provided at the intendedhighest
standing level.
Rungs
Ladder crosspieces that are intended for use by a person in ascending or descending. Also
referred to as steps or cleats.
Sectional Ladder
A non-self-supporting portable ladder, nonadjustable in length, consisting of two or more
sections, and so constructed that the sections may be combined to function as a single ladder.
Special Purpose Ladder
A portable ladder that is either an experimentally designed ladder or a modification or
assemblage of A14 approved requirements for design, testing or construction features of one of
the general-purpose ladders defined elsewhere in this section, in order to adapt the ladder for
special or specific climbing uses.
Stepladder
Self-supporting portable ladder with fixed height having flat steps and a hinged back.
Stepstool (ladder type)
A self-supporting, foldable, portable ladder with fixed height not exceeding 32 inches to thetop
cap with no pail shelf.
Top Cap
The uppermost horizontal member of a portable stepladder or step stool.
Top Step
The first step below the top cap of a portable stepladder or step stool. Where a ladder is
constructed without a top cap, the top step is the first step below the top of the rails.
Trestle (Double Front) Ladder
A self-supporting portable ladder, non-adjustable in length, consisting of two sections, designed
to be able to be climbed on by two (2) individuals simultaneously, one (1) per side and hinged
at the top to form angles with the base.

Ladders 4
 SAFETY POLICY & PROCEDURE
Working Load
The maximum applied load, including the weight of the user, materials, and tools, which the
ladder is to support for the intended use.

6.2 General Provisions

This section details the provisions of this safety policy and procedure with each provision
discussed in a separate subsection. These provisions are:
1. Training
2. Ladder Types
3. Capacity Ratings
4. Ladder Hazards
5. Ladder Use
6. Ladder Safety Devices for Fixed Ladders
7. Inspection

6.2.1 Employee Training

Employees using the ladders shall be trained upon initial job assignment in:
1. How to recognize hazards associated with ladders and procedures to minimize
these hazards.
• To minimize falls from ladders:
▪ Follow manufacturer guidelines for acceptable use.
▪ Place ladder on proper footing.
▪ Do not use ladders on slippery surfaces.
▪ Always face the ladder.
▪ Secure step ladders by locking spreader bars at center of ladder.
▪ Do not stand on top two steps of step ladders.
▪ Do not overreach; reposition the ladder to avoid.
▪ Extension ladders must be positioned a minimum distance of 3’ pastthe
edge of landing platform.
▪ Extension ladders should be positioned with ladder feet 1/4th of the
length to support point for the ladder which is about a 75-degree angle.
• Electrical shock hazard:
▪ Check for overhead electrical wires.
▪ Maintain minimum clearance of 10’ with overhead electrical lines.
2. The proper selection and use of portable ladders.
• Use the correct capacity rating for weight of employee, clothing, PPE, or tool
belt if worn.
• Choose the correct ladder for application; refer to Section 6.2.2 for Ladder Types.
• Step ladders will not be used as a single ladder (folded)
3. Ladder inspection requirements.
• Ladders must not have any damage, lack of structural integrity, missing
components, or loose parts.
• Ladders must be free of oil, grease, or slippery materials.
• Labels for ladders should be intact and readable.
Ladders 5
 SAFETY POLICY & PROCEDURE

6.2.2 Ladder Types

There are many types of ladders used in NCDOT based on function and loadcapacity.
They are classified as either portable or fixed designs.
Common types of portable ladders are step stool, step, platform, platform, single and
extension ladders. Figure 1 illustrates examples ofcommon portable ladders.

Step Stool Step Ladder Platform Ladder

Straight Ladder Rolling Ladder Extension Ladder

Figure 1

There are also multi-purpose ladders which are used for special applications meeting ANSI
ladder standard which provide safe methods. Figure 2 illustrates examples of multi-purpose
ladders.
• Lean Safe Ladders have a lower rear rail to front rail connection point allowing the
user to get closer to the work when in stepladder mode.
• Multi-Purpose Ladders can be used on stairs utilizing multi-position adjustments
for stair treads.
• Trestle Ladders are designed for two people to use at the same time, one of each
side.
• Telescoping Ladders allow adjusting the height of the step ladder to suitable height
Ladders 6
 SAFETY POLICY & PROCEDURE
required. For multiple purpose, it can also be used as an extension ladder.

• Extension Trestle Ladders allow extension ladder portion to access drop ceilings or
remote access areas.

Multi- Purpose Trestle Ladder

Lean Safe Ladder for Stairs 2 - Man

Multi-Purpose
Multi-Purpose Extension
Telescoping Ladder
Telescoping Ladder Trestle Ladder
Extension Ladder

Figure 2
Fixed ladders are permanently attached to a structure or building. Existing fixed
ladders are required to have cages for section extending 24’ or greater. Existing fixed
ladders manufactured after March 15, 1991, must have skid resistant rungs or steps.

Ladders 7
 SAFETY POLICY & PROCEDURE
Any new fixed ladders over 24’ installed after November 19, 2018, must have
personal fall arrest or ladder safety system installed to prevent employees from
falling or arresting their fall before contact with a lower level.

6.2.3 Capacity Ratings

All portable ladders have Capacity Ratings specified by the manufacturer for maximum
working load limit with Duty Rating marked on side rails of ladder. NCDOT personnel
should only acquire the Duty Rating that will safely accommodate weight of individuals
including clothing, PPE, and tool belt if worn.
Type III Light Duty Portable Ladders shall not be purchased for use by NCDOT
personnel. It is recommended that Type 1 Heavy-Duty Ladders be utilized. There may
be instances where Extra-Heavy Duty or Special-Duty Ladders be used based on weight
capacity requirements. Type II may only be used in office environments for painting or
light duty operations. Validate step/extension ladder working load or duty rating with
ladder capacity label and color coding.
1. Type III – Light Duty Portable Ladder - For users requiring a maximum
200-pound working load or duty rating. Generally, for Household use. Duty
rating colors: Fiberglass ladders rails are RED in color; Aluminum ladders are
RED in color on the base caps/pads and top cap
2. Type II - Medium-Duty Portable Ladder - For users requiring a maximum
225-pound working load or duty rating. Common use by some commercial
painters, in office settings, and for light maintenance work. Duty rating color:
Fiberglass ladders rails are GREEN in color; Aluminum ladders are GREEN in
color on the base caps/pads and top cap.
3. Type I - Heavy-Duty Portable Ladder - For users requiring a maximum
250-pound working load or duty rating. Commonly used in factories and
industrial settings, for utility work, and at construction sites. Duty rating color:
Fiberglass ladders (Rails) are BLUE in color; Aluminum ladders are BLUE in
color on the base caps/pads and top cap.
4. Type IA – Extra Heavy-Duty Portable Ladder - For users requiring a
maximum 300-pound working load or duty rating. Commonly used in factories,
industrial settings, for utility work, and construction sites. Duty rating color:
Fiberglass ladders (Rails) are ORANGE in color, Aluminum ladders are
ORANGE or BLACK in color on the base caps/pads and top cap.
5. Type IAA - Special-Duty Portable Ladder - For users requiring a maximum
375-pound working load or duty rating. Also used in factories, industrial
settings, for utility work, and at construction sites. Duty rating color: Fiberglass
ladders (Rails) are YELLOW in color; Aluminum ladders are YELLOW in
color on the base caps/pads and top cap.

Ladders 8
 SAFETY POLICY & PROCEDURE
6.2.4 Ladder Hazards
There are inherent hazards associated with ladder use. Typical ladder hazards include:
• Using incorrect ladder type for the job
• Exceeding duty rating ladder capacity
• Slippery rungs or steps on ladder
• Improper placement of ladder
• Reaching or leaning too far rather than moving ladder
• Standing on top step or rung of ladder
• Using a damaged ladder
• Using ladders near exposed electrical lines
• Using fixed ladders 24’ or greater height without cages or fall protection

6.2.5 Ladder Use

Employees should follow certain rules when placing, ascending, and descending
ladders which include:
• Read and follow Manufacturer’s instructions.
• Inspect ladder for defects before using.
• Never use a defective ladder. Tag or mark it so that it will be properly repaired if
feasible or discarded of and replaced. Render defective ladders unserviceable
prior to disposal so no one attempts to retrieve for use.
• Single or extension ladder must extend a minimum of 3’ above the landing
surface (4 rungs).
• Use a 4 to 1 ratio when placing the base of a single or extension ladder distance
away from the vertical landing platform height. (e.g. For a landing surface height
of 12’, place the ladder feet 3’ away from base.)
• Use 3 points of contact when going up or down a ladder.
• Place tools in pockets or use tool belt to transport up or down ladder.
• Do not carry materials that could cause loss of balance and falling.
• If materials must be transported, raise, or lower it with a rope or other mechanism.
• Face the ladder when ascending or descending.
• Never slide down a ladder.
• Make sure the rungs or steps of ladder are not slippery or that shoes are not
greasy, muddy, or slippery before climbing.
• Do not climb higher than the third rung from the top on straight or extension
ladder, or the second tread from the top on stepladders.
• Never reach out or lean too far from the ladder. Move the ladder to avoid potential
fall hazard.
• Never jump from a ladder. Always dismount form the bottom rung or step.
• Never attempt to adjust a ladder while a user is standing on the ladder.
• When using ladders in busy areas or doorways, erect barricades around the ladder
and have someone direct traffic or hold the bottom of the ladder.

Ladders 9
 SAFETY POLICY & PROCEDURE
• Store ladders in a safe secure area. Wooden and fiberglass ladders should be
stored out of direct sunlight.
• Extension ladder base sections shall not be used as single/straight ladder (Fly
sections removed), unless meets compliance standard/manufactures requirements.
(Render unserviceable prior to disposal/being sent for recycling).
• Fly Sections of extension ladders do not meet compliance standard/ manufactures
requirements and shall not be used/stored/utilized. These fly sections shall be
(Render unserviceable prior to disposal/being sent for recycling).
• Extension ladders overlap requirement two (2) sections:
– Up to 36 feet in length, the overlap must be at least three (3) feet.
– 36 to 48 feet in length, the overlap must be at least four (4) feet.
– 48 to 60 feet in length, the overlap must be at least five (5) feet.
• Properly tie off ladders whenever possible at or near the top for added stability.
Tie off at the bottom if there is difficulty in maintaining stability. When tying off
or untying the top, or if the ladder cannot be tied off, someone on the ground
should hold the ladder to ensure it remains stable. Prior to performing ladder tying
off refer to OSHA standards and manufacture instructions.

6.2.6 Ladder Safety Devices for Fixed Ladders

All fixed ladders extending 24’ or greater installed prior to November 18, 2018 must have a
cage, well, or personal fall arrest system or ladder safety system. New fixed ladders
installed after November 18, 2018 must have ladder safety system or fall arrest system
installed. On and after November 18, 2036, all fixed ladders are equipped with a personal
fall arrest system or a ladder safety system.
1. Ladder Cage or Well is basket guard barrier enclosing or nearly enclosing the
ladder’s climbing space. (Figure 1)
2. Ladder Safety System consists of a permanent ladder safety rail or cable with fall
arrest sleeve or traveler, where climber uses a full body harness with front D-ring,
lanyard, and connectors. (Figure 2)
3. Ladder Personal Fall Arrest System consists of a full body harness, ladder or fixed
anchorage point, lanyard, vertical lifeline, and connectors. Vertical retractable
lanyard may be used in place of lifeline. (Figure 3)

Figure 1 Figure 2 Figure 3

Ladders 10
 SAFETY POLICY & PROCEDURE
6.2.7 Inspection
Before using a ladder, inspect for defects prior to use:
• Look for damaged side rails, rungs, or supports including UV damage.
• Check for bent or corroded metal.
• Check for loose, missing, broken, or cracked, or splintered rungs, rails, steps,
spreaders, other locking devices, feet, or top caps.
• Ensure nuts, bolts, or rivets are tight and that the ladder feet are secure.
• Test the ladder for stability.
• Make sure rungs and feet are not slippery.
• Check the label to ensure it is legible and verify load rating is sufficient.
• Inspect ladders immediately for damage after tip over or exposure to chemicals
or fire.
After using a ladder, inspect for any newly acquired defects which could affect the
safety of the next person who uses it. If the ladder falls, has been exposed to severe
strain, or is struck with enough force to cause damage during use:
• Look for any new dents or damage to side rails, rungs, and supports.
• Check for bends or malformations and any loosening of nuts, bolts, and rivets.
• Retest the ladder’s stability.
• If the ladder is damaged, take it out of service and tag ladder with “Do Not
Use”. Ladder should be repaired if feasible or disposed of and replaced.
Periodic inspection of all step and extension ladders by a Competent Person is required
at 6-month intervals and documented. See Appendix A for Ladder Inspection
Checklist and Log.

6.3 Specific Responsibilities

6.3.1 Managers/Unit Heads

Managers/Unit Heads are responsible for ensuring that adequate funds are available
and budgeted for the purchase of ladders in their areas.
Managers/Unit Heads will obtain and coordinate the required training for the affected
employees. Managers/Unit Heads will also ensure compliance with this safety policy
and procedure through their auditing process.

6.3.2 Supervisors
Supervisors are responsible for ensuring that all ladders (fixed and portable) are
regularly inspected and properly maintained. They will also be responsible for tagging
ladders and removing defected ladders from service for repair or destruction.
Supervisors will audit for compliance with this safety policy and procedure during their
facility and jobsite audits.

Ladders 11
 SAFETY POLICY & PROCEDURE
6.3.3 Employees
Employees shall comply with all applicable guidelines contained in this safety policy
and procedure.
Employees are also responsible for reporting immediately suspected unsafe conditions
or ladders to their supervisor. Employees shall inspect ladders before and after use and
are to keep ladders clean and in good condition. Damaged ladders will not be used and
tagged out of service until repair or rendered unserviceable for proper disposal or
recycle.

6.3.4 Safety & Risk Management

Safety and Risk Management will provide prompt assistance to manager/unit
heads, supervisors, or others as applicable on any matters concerning this safety
policy and procedure. Safety and Risk Management will assist in developing or
securing the required training.
Safety Engineers, Consultants, and Officers will provide consultative and audit
assistance to ensure effective implementation of this safety policy and procedure.

Ladders 12
 SAFETY POLICY & PROCEDURE
Appendix A Ladder Inspection Checklist and Log

Ladders 13