Safe Use of Trestle Ladders

Inspection

• Inspect any ladder before you use it. Look for the duty rating -- usually printed on a label on the ladder -- that tells you how much weight the ladder can hold. Add your own weight to the weight of the planks you will use as scaffolding to determine the duty load for the ladder. Inspect bolts, rungs and spreader bars, and tighten any loose bolts. Clean dried mud and debris from the rungs and rails.

Setup

• When you set up a pair of trestle ladders, place the base of each ladder on a solid, level surface, and place the ladders no farther than 8 feet apart. Keep the legs of each ladder 5 1/2 inches apart for every foot of height. For example, if the ladder reaches 4 feet in height, the legs should be 22 inches apart. If the ladder has a center extension piece, it must lap the base section by at least 3 feet. Use the metal spreaders or locking devices on the ladder to keep it securely in place and prevent the ladder from spreading or collapsing.

Planks

• Scaffolding planks can be made of solid wood or engineered materials. Use sturdy material that can hold at least four times its intended load. Place planks no more than 1 1/2 inches from the edge of the ladder rail. If you use more than one plank, push the planks tightly together to form a solid deck, and use clamps or ties to secure the deck planks to the ladder.

Tools and Materials

• When you work on a ladder, keep both hands free so you can balance yourself by grasping the ladder rails. Carry any tools you think you'll need in a tool belt. If you can, work with a partner who can hand tools up to you as you need them. Keep the scaffold planks clear of tools and materials so they won't create a tripping hazard on the deck.