FIRE PREVENTION SKILLS

Transcription

1 TOPIC: LADDER SAFETY PRACTICES TIME FRAME: 0:30 LEVEL OF INSTRUCTION: II AUTHORITY: 1997 NFPA BEHAVIORAL OBJECTIVE: Condition: Behavior: Standard: A written test The student will confirm a knowledge of ladder safety practices by completing the written test With a minimum 80% accuracy according to the information contained in Essentials of Fire Fighting, IFSTA, Fourth Edition, Chapter 9 or Fire Service Ground Ladders, IFSTA, Ninth Edition, Chapter 4 or Firefighter's Handbook, Delmar, 2000 Edition, Chapter 14 MATERIALS NEEDED: Writing board with markers/erasers Appropriate audiovisual equipment Appropriate audiovisual materials REFERENCES: Essentials of Fire Fighting, IFSTA, Fourth Edition Fire Service Ground Ladders, IFSTA, Ninth Edition Firefighter's Handbook, Delmar, 2000 Edition PREPARATION: Ladders are an extremely useful tool, but have a history of being improperly used. When Fire Prevention personnel use a ladder their safety and well-being depends on compliance with some general safety guidelines. The most common violations of these guidelines are overloading the ladder and improper climbing angles. Not following these safety guidelines can lead to serious injuries. This lesson is intended to give you an understanding of these basic safety guidelines and loading characteristics so that the chance of serious injury is minimized. July 2001 Page 1

2 I. SAFETY GUIDELINES A. There is no substitute for good common sense B. Appropriate personal protective equipment 1. Gloves 2. Helmet What is a good rule for general ladder safety? What personal protective equipment should be worn during ladder operations? II. SAFETY CONSIDERATIONS A. Position of ladder 1. Check for overhead obstructions a) Trees b) Overhangs c) Wires d) Be aware of power lines 1) Metal ladders are good conductors 2) Wood, fiberglass and composite ladder also conduct electricity when wet What overhead obstructions present the biggest safety hazards when raising or lowering ladders? July 2001 Page 2

3 2. Proper climbing angle a) 75 angle b) Used portion of ladder divided by 4 c) Lower climbing angle = more stress on ladder and less stability B. Footing 1. When heeling inboard do not look up 2. Wear appropriate personal protective equipment 3. Foot ladder every time ladder is used by personnel What is considered the proper climbing angle? July 2001 Page 3

4 C. Climbing ladder 1. Before climbing a) Check for proper 75 angle b) Check ladder stability c) Check that halyard is secure d) Check that pawl (lock, dogs) are secure 2. Climbing should be smooth and rhythmic 3. Use proper safety procedures when working off of ladder a) Safety belt What are some safety concerns you should consider before climbing a ladder? How can you secure yourself to the ladder while working from it? 4. Do not exceed load limits of ladder a) One person per section, maximum D. Load safety characteristics 1. Ladders are designed to support a maximum weight 2. Loading specifications are based on proper angle and with the tip supported What is the general guide for determining how many people can climb a ladder at one time? July 2001 Page 4

5 3. Load is the total weight on the ladder a) Personnel b) Equipment 4. Maximum ladder loading ( Fire Service ) a) Folding 1) 300 pounds b) Single and roof 1) 750 pounds c) Extension and pole 1) 750 pounds d) Combination 1) 750 pounds What should be included when estimating total weight carried by a ladder? July 2001 Page 5

6 SUMMARY: Safety and awareness of your surroundings should be a constant factor while using ladders. Your safety relies on your judgment and careful attention to details contained within this lesson. When your safety is in doubt do not climb the ladder. EVALUATION: The student will complete the written test at a time determined by the instructor. ASSIGNMENT: Review your notes and read Essentials of Fire Fighting, IFSTA, Fourth Edition, Chapter 9 or Fire Service Ground Ladders, IFSTA, Ninth Edition, Chapter 4 or Firefighter's Handbook, Delmar, 2000 Edition, Chapter 14 in order to prepare yourself for the upcoming test. Study for our next session. July 2001 Page 6