Climb Your Way to a Safe Winter Season

While the use of lights is a common practice during holiday decorating, displaying them on tall roofs, windows and railings can be tricky. When decorating your church, it is important to consider ladder safety. Injuries that occur when using ladders often happen to staff or volunteers who are unfamiliar with the equipment. Being educated on ladder safety can help protect the church and lead to safe holiday decorating.

Ladder Selection

There are three main types of ladders available: stepladders, straight (single) ladders and extension ladders. Stepladders are non-adjustable in length and should be used at low and medium heights. Single ladders are non-adjustable and can reach higher heights, while extension ladders, which are adjustable, should be used for high elevations, such as windows or roofs. It is always a good idea to use a ladder that is longer than what is required to be reached.

All ladders have ratings, ranging from Type IAA to Type III, that are based on weight and use. Be sure to check the rating of a ladder before using. Generally, type III (light duty household) ladders should not be used in the church setting; instead, they should be replaced with a type II (medium duty commercial) or higher rated ladder. In addition, ladders without any rating should be replaced.

Beyond selecting a ladder with the appropriate rating, it is important to use a ladder that is in good physical condition. Inspect ladders for the following faults:

Loose or missing rungs, cleats or bracing;
Loose nails, bolts or screws;
Cracked, broken, split, dented or badly worn rungs, cleats or side rails;
Wood splinters;
Corrosion of metal ladders or metal parts; and
Missing or damaged side rails or foot pads.

Training

Even if the proper ladder is being used, it is important that those using the ladder have the ability to recognize the potential hazards. Consider the following when training staff and volunteers on ladder safety:

Do not load ladders beyond their maximum intended load-carrying capacities.
Avoid overhead electrical hazards. Never use a metal ladder around power lines or electrical equipment.
Inspect the ladder before using it. If the ladder is damaged, it should be removed from service and tagged until repaired or discarded.
Do not move, shift or extend ladders while in use.
Always face the ladder when moving up or down and use the “three point rule” when ascending or descending a ladder, which is to keep at least three of your hands and feet in contact with the ladder at all times.
Do not carry objects or loads that could cause loss of balance and falls.
Work in pairs when using a ladder. Someone should be available to hold the ladder in position while the other person is on it.

Decorating the church for the holidays is a tradition that brings joy to members and guests. When preparing to decorate, keep ladder safety in mind. To view additional ladder safety tips, view the Ladder Safety fact sheet on SafeChurch.com.

Climb Your Way to a Safe Winter Season

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Ladder Selection

Training