Collage

Ladders, Lifts, and Scaffolds

1. General Conditions for Use of Ladders, Lifts, and Scaffolds

1.1 Warning Labels. Read all warning labels attached to the ladder, lift or scaffold. Follow the directions given on the labels.

1.2 Inspect the device. Visually check the ladder, lift or scaffold before using. Do not use it if you suspect there is some problem; immediately notify your faculty or supervisor of any problem you suspect.

1.3 Tag the device. When a problem with a device makes it unsafe, "tag" it with a sign marked "Dangerous - do Not Use" until the problem is corrected. Faculty and staff shall determine if a tag may be removed.

1.4 One person. Only one person at a time may mount a ladder, lift or scaffold.

1.5 Moving. Do not attempt to move the ladder, lift or scaffold while on it.

1.6 Leaning. Do not lean out over the edge of the ladder, lift or scaffold to try to reach something; get off and move the ladder, lift or scaffold.

1.7 Dropping items. Be careful not to drop anything from the ladder. It is dangerous to those who may be below you near the ladder.

1.8 Stay out from below persons working on ladders, lifts andscaffolds. The danger of something being dropped or falling always exists.

1.9 Electrical work. Metal ladders, lifts and scaffolds should not be used around electrical circuits unless proper insulating safety precautions are in effect. Generally, devices with metal work platforms or stepsshould not be used around electrical circuits.

1.10 General condition. Ladders, lifts and scaffolds should be in good, clean, condition, with no broken parts, loose joints, or sharp edges. They may not be painted.

1.11 Use proper equipment. Do not use chairs, stools, boxes, etc. as a platform to work from; use a ladder.

2. Portable Ladders (Step Ladders)

2.1 Support. Ladders must be erected on flat, level, secure surfaces. None of the feet may be blocked up on anything to level the ladder. Ladders which may possibly slip must be secured in place or held.

2.2 Opening. The ladder should be fully opened and both spreaders locked.

2.3 Top platform. Do not use the top platform as a step.

2.4 Use steps only. Do not mount the rear, or support, side of the ladder.

2.5 Care and storage. Ladders should not be dropped or banged around. They should be inspected after any abuse. They should be stored in a dry, reasonably clean place and not piled under anything.

3. Personnel Lift (Genie Lift)

3.1 Training. Training is required before this device may be used.

3.2 Support. The lift must be used on a level, secure surface. All outriggers and bracing must be used in accordance with the lift's instructions.

3.3 Basket. Do not climb outside the basket at any time except to enter orexit when the lift is fully compressed.

3.4 Lifting objects. Do not use the lift as a crane to lift anything into place. Tools and instruments weighing not more than 50 pounds, carried inside the basket, may be raised along with the worker.

3.5 Care and storage. The operating key should not be left in place when the lift is stored. The lift and its parts should not be dropped or banged around. All parts should be properly stored when not in use. Periodic inspection and maintenance will be performed by the Lighting/Audio Technician and noted in a log.

4. Scaffolds (Rolling)

4.1 Training. Training is required before this device may be used.

4.2 Assembly. All parts of the scaffold must be locked in place before the scaffold is used. Check each flexible joint to made sure it is locked.

4.3 Support. The scaffold must be used on a secure surface. Care must be taken to carefully secure the locking mechanisms of the leveling adjusters. Castor wheels should be locked when in use.

4.4 Care and storage. The scaffolds should be disassembled and put away in a clean, dry place. They should not be dropped or banged around and should not be piled with anything on top of them.