For the Pest Control Technician

It’s Just a Ladder! According to the US DOL, falls are the leading cause

of worker fatalities in the construction industry.

Annually, falls from a higher level account for 12% of the total injuries among PestSure insured technicians.

On average, between 150 - 200 workers are killed, and more than 100,000 are injured in falls each year.

Failure to have a fall protection plan in place is considered to be a “willful violation”, according to OSHA

LADDER SAFETYLADDER SAFETY “Ladders shall be inspected frequently and

those which have developed defects shall be withdrawn from service for repair or destruction and tagged or marked as “Dangerous, Do Not Use”” - OSHA 1910-25, subpart D

“Ladders shall be maintained in good condition at all times…” - OSHA 1910.25, subpart D

Lashing a Ladder

Placement ConsiderationsPlacement Considerations Always do a “pre-climb” check to

select the best location to place the ladder.

Flat, non-slip surface on the ground

Potential damage where the top of the ladder contacts the building

Check for overhead wires

Check left and right of the ladder for potential hazards in the event the ladder falls

Placement Placement ConsiderationsConsiderations

“No ladder should be used to gain access to a roof unless the top of the ladder shall extend at least 3 feet above the point of support, at eaves, gutter, or roofline” - OSHA 1910.25

“Portable rung or cleat ladders shall, where possible, be used at such a pitch that the horizontal distance from the top support to the foot of the ladder is one-quarter of the working length of the ladder…” - OSHA 1910.25

“The ladder shall be placed as to prevent slipping, or it shall be lashed or held in position” - OSHA 1910.25

LADDER SAFETYStep Ladders

Make sure you choose the right step ladder for the job.

A sticker showing the weight limit, and designed use are affixed to the side rail.

Number your ladders, and have the use limits on file in case the sticker comes off.

What is wrong? How many ladder use

safety issues can you identify with the person on the right?

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 More?

What is wrong? How many ladder use

safety issues can you identify with the person on the right?

1- using top platform 2- reaching to side 3- substance on floor 4- improper footwear 5- substance on steps 6- bent bottom step 7- skid/footpad missing 8- uneven surface

Step LaddersProper Use

Do not climb or stand on the top rung.

Ensure that your step ladder is safely placed, just as you would with an extension ladder.

If your work area is out of reach, then get a bigger step ladder

Step LaddersOffice Use

Don’t forget about the ladders used in the office.

If your administrative staff uses a small step ladder or step stool, then they need ladder safety training too.

Questions

Remember, an injury on the job goes home with you at night.