Safety Equipment & Clothing

Fall-arrest Systems

A fall-arrest system is designed to minimize the severity of falls from height, but it is not designed to prevent their occurrence. It is designed to catch a worker after a fall to limit compounding injury. Fall-arrest systems are best used in conjunction with other control measures.

There are many types of fall-arrest systems, including safety nets, catch platforms, and individual fall-arrest systems.

Ladder Leveller

A ladder leveller is a set of adjustable legs that can be attached to the base of an extension ladder to improve stability. This device eliminates instability caused by uneven surfaces.

Roofer Ladder Hoist

A ladder hoist is a gas- or electric-powered lifting device that lifts heavy materials to an elevated level or platform. It eliminates the need for workers to carry heavy materials up or down ladders. This reduces the risk of falls because when workers are carrying materials, they cannot maintain three points of contact. It also reduces muscle strains and sprains associated with lifting and carrying heavy objects.

Footwear

Proper and appropriate footwear is a critical component in preventing slips, trips, and falls while using ladders and stairways. Shoes that have high heels, smooth leather soles, or open toes can significantly increase an employee's risk of injury. Any employees working on ladders or frequently using stairways should wear slip-resistant footwear. These types of footwear provide soles made with slip-resistant material and have good traction. Organizations should consider requiring or providing slip-resistant footwear for all employees.

To learn more about Ladder & Stairway Safety visit our Ladder & Stairway Safety Online Training web page.