Electrical Safety With Ladders
Electricians often must work about ground level. Even though there are hundreds of power lifting devices and equipment, ladders are still the most practical way to access overhead electrical systems.
Online, October 1, 2012 (Newswire.com) - Modern day ladders used by electricians come in all shapes, sizes and technologies.
While the functionality itself has not changed, the way they are made and the materials used have increased their uses - from very simple ladders to high-end ladders designed for specific tasks.
Although wooden ladders still exist, remember that most ladders around today are made from aluminium and fibreglass. Aluminium is not appropriate for electricians, however, because they conduct electricity, fibreglass ladders do not.
Some ladder safety basics
Some dangers associated with ladder safety with electrical work, includes electrocution, electric burns and shocks and falls from ladders.
Any contact with live electricity is extremely dangerous so it is important to know what to do.
Set up
Every electrical job needs surveying on site to identify the location of the power lines, such as their distances and heights. Safety measures must be implemented for any work near power lines, electrical sources.
This means being proactive in not storing anything like tools and equipment near the electricity sites as well as carrying them horizontally instead of vertically.
Never use metal ladders near live overhead power lines, when climbing any ladder, some ladder safety basics should be considered. 1. First, check your ladders to see if it is in good condition before using it.
Some general ladder safety tips
Many accidents, both industrial and DIY, are caused by improper use of ladders.By thinking about the proper way to climb a ladder, many of these incidents can be avoided.
First, check your ladders to see if it is in good condition before using it.
For example, if it is a step ladder, ensure the spreader lock is properly into place and make sure you check for any defects.
Keep your ladders on a solid, even surface - and definitely don't let them sit on slippery surface like snow or ice.
If it is completely necessary put the ladder in a high traffic area, it is cornered off to stop any collisions.
Lock the spreaders into place before ascending the ladder and make sure the step ladder legs are fully open.
Step ladders are designed for use in the open position. Never lean them against walls like you would with a normal ladder.
Do not use the top two rungs of a ladder. If you need to go further up, get a longer ladder.
Keep both hands on the ladder, facing it when climbing up.
Instead of carrying tools up the ladder, use a tool belt or rope system. Also, do not allow more than one person on the ladder at a time.
Do not overreach in any direction. Every time to need to reach further, simply climb down and move the ladder into the desired position.
For information on ladder safety, ladders or step ladders, visit http://www.brownsladders.co.uk.