Checklist

Fall From Elevations Prevention

Below are safety checklists, taken from Habitat for Humanity’s “Construction Safety Policy,” to prevent falls from scaffolding and from ladders.

All scaffolding that is elevated 10 feet or more must be equipped with a safety railing.
All scaffolds must be equipped with a toeboard to eliminate the possibility that tools or debris will be kicked or pushed onto people below.
A scaffold must be designed to support four times the weight of the workers and the materials resting on it.
Scaffolding components that are not designed to be compatible should not be mixed.
Inspect all scaffolding each day before using it. Never use damaged or defective equipment and avoid rusted parts since their strength is unknown.
When erecting scaffolding, provide adequate sills for the scaffold posts and use base plates. Use adjusting screws, not blocks, when on an uneven grade.
Make sure to plumb and level scaffolding and do not force end braces when constructing the scaffolding.
Many scaffolding accidents are caused by defective planking. Use only properly graded and inspected lumber for planking. Inspect planking daily for splits and knots, and remove defective or damaged planking.

Inspect a ladder before you use it. If the ladder is unsafe, don’t use it. Look for wear and tear, loose rungs and defects.
Use a ladder that will reach the work. An extension ladder should reach 3 feet above the work level.
Move your ladder with your work. If both of your shoulders are extended outside the ladder while you are working, you are reaching too far.
When using an extension ladder, use the “4-to-1” rule: For every 4 feet of height, move the bottom of the ladder 1 foot away from the wall. A ladder is pitched at the proper, safe angle if you can grasp a rung at shoulder height.
Place your ladder on solid footing. If there is a danger of the ladder moving while you work, tie it down. If there is a danger that the ladder will be hit, barricade it. If the feet of the ladder are not level, dig the ground out under one foot with the claw of a hammer rather than raise one foot with blocks.
Never use a ladder outdoors during inclement weather or on very windy days.
Carry tools and materials in proper carrying devices and keep your hands free for climbing. When climbing, always face the ladder.