NIOSH has released a Ladder Safety App for iOS and Android. We finally got around to taking it out to a site and playing around with it. It only covers extension ladders. It's a great training tool, and we highly recommend you download it. It has five major functions.
Ladder Selection
Use the tool to select the right ladder rating for your task. Just enter the weight of the expected load, and it will tell you the type of ladder.
Ladder Setup
The app uses the phone's accelerometer to display an angle. Just place the edge of the phone against the ladder, and it will tell you the angle, and if it is too steep or too low.
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Ladder Inspection
Ladders should be inspected prior to each use. The inspection tool allows you to tap on different parts of the ladder. It shows inspection criteria and a helpful diagram.
Safe Work Practices for Ladders
Swipe through a list of safe work practices for ladders.
Ladder Accessories
Swipe through a list of common ladder accessories, and learn about their safety requirements. A helpful tool, especially in workplaces with unique needs for working at heights.
How should I use this app?
The ladder angle tool and the load selection tool can be used on a daily basis. The rest is mostly just a great training tool. We recommend opening the app while working a commonly used workplace ladder. Pass the phone or tablet around, and have the employees swipe through the inspection criteria, and practice them on the ladder. Talk about the different safe work practices, and ask employees if they have any additional work practices they find helpful.
References
Ladder Safety Training Compliance Kit