What is the proper way to store ladders?
- context Return ladders to the storage area after use.
- context Store ladders where they are protected from the weather.
- context Store ladders where people or machinery will not come in contact with it unintentionally.
- context Support ladders horizontally on racks or mount on the walls. To prevent sagging, support ladders every 2 m (6 ft) as shown in the figure.
- context Keep ladders clean and free of foreign materials.
- context Ensure that storage areas are easy to reach.
- context Keep wooden ladders in a well-ventilated location, away from dampness and excessive heat.
- context Avoid long overhangs beyond support points when transporting ladders on vehicles.
- context Pad racks on vehicles with soft material to reduce wear and road shocks.
- context Tie ladders to each support point to reduce damage.
- context Mark ladders which overhang vehicles with a red or orange flag.
- context Grasp ladders near the centre when carrying them.
- context Use caution when carrying ladders through passageways, doorways or any place where your view is obstructed.
- context Use a partner to help carry long or heavy ladders.
- context Make sure that you and your partner are on the same side when carrying a ladder. Stay in step. Work out in advance any hand or voice signals to coordinate stopping or changing direction.
- context Always tag and remove from service a defective ladder for repair by a person authorized by the manufacturer, or replace.