Ladder Safety in the Orchard

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In orchards, ladders are one of the most commonly used pieces of equipment. And falls from ladders, as well as falling ladders, are among the most common causes of injuries, from minor strains or sprains to dislocated or broken limbs and fractures. Even minor, relatively painless injuries may result in a worker needing time off, which means lost time for the employer. Other types of businesses may be able to call in a replacement worker on short notice, but it may not be such a straightforward situation in an orchard. That’s why it’s important to make sure that your workplace health and safety plan, required by the Occupational Health and Safety Regulation, has a comprehensive section on ladder safety.

In addition to learning the basic principles of ladder safety, orchard workers need to be trained on how to avoid the hazards particular to using orchard ladders, which are specialized tools with their own unique guidelines and precautions. Orchard ladders are designed specifically for use on uneven, soft, outdoor terrain, and when set up correctly, they are the ideal tool for the job. The feet of the ladder are intended to dig into the ground slightly and there is no locking brace or spreader. The tripod leg can be adjusted to accommodate slopes and raise or lower the ladder height, within recommended limits.

These features make these ladders the safe choice for working outside among the trees but make them unsafe, on hard, flat surfaces. Never use an orchard ladder on an indoor surface as the ladder is likely to slip or collapse completely. Using an orchard ladder in the wrong conditions for “just a few minutes,” because it is a convenient choice, is also a dangerous choice. Proper training teaches workers how to choose the right tool, as well as the right way to use it.

To keep your workers safe while working in the orchard, be sure to provide the necessary training before they begin work. Encourage them to ask questions so that they understand what to do. If you or a supervisor notices that a worker is not following their training, remind them of the correct procedures or take them aside for additional training before their incorrect techniques lead to an injury, or worse.

Before using the ladder

  • Choose a ladder with the correct length and appropriate weight capacity. Remember to include the weight of the fully loaded picking bag in the final total.
  • Inspect the ladder daily before using it to make sure it is in good working condition, with no damaged or loose parts. If a ladder needs repair, fix it immediately or set it aside, labeled as unsafe, until it is repaired.

Setting up the ladder

  • • Avoid placing the ladder on or near loose rocks and debris and take extra care around tripping hazards such as irrigation pipes, rocks, or tree roots.
  • Always use the tripod leg. DO NOT lean the ladder against a tree or a branch.
  • When using the ladder on a slope, place the tripod on the uphill slope.
  • When using the ladder on level ground, place the tripod facing or beside the tree.
  • Make sure that the feet of the ladder, including the tripod pole, are pushed firmly into the ground.
  • To quickly check that the ladder is at a safe and stable angle, stand at the base of the ladder and stretch out your arms at shoulder level. Your hands should just reach the steps in front of you.

Working on the ladder

  • Wear appropriate footwear.
  • Keep the steps clean and dry.
  • Always face the ladder, whether climbing up or down.
  • Work within a safety zone on the ladder. Don’t over reach either to the side or overhead.
  • Do not work from the top two steps.
  • Allow only one person on the ladder at a time.
  • Stay away from any electrical wires.
  • Start picking fruit at the highest level so you move closer to the ground as the bag becomes heavier.
  • Keep the picking bag (and your body) aligned within the centre of the ladder.
  • Keep clear of “pinch points” when working on or moving the ladder.

Moving the ladder

  • Climb down to move or reposition the ladder. Do not “walk” the ladder, even for a short distance.
  • Secure the tripod pole and carry the ladder horizontally on your shoulder, watching carefully for people or objects around you.
  • Use two people to carry the ladder if it is being moved a longer distance.
  • Working on ladders also means working among trees and branches. Ensure your workers use the right Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) — eye protection and gloves — and wear long sleeves and long pants to prevent injuries from branches, twigs, and insects.

Everyone has a responsibility

Everyone has a role to play in maintaining a healthy and safe workplace. Here is a brief summary of how the responsibilities are shared:

Employer

  • Provide your workers with training specific to your workplace.
  • Give special attention to new and young workers, and remember that many of the orchard workers are seasonal, and could use “refresher” training, especially if it has been a few months or even a few years, since they worked in an orchard.
  • Consider how to help workers who may have language barriers that prevent them from fully understanding the safety information.
  • Provide and maintain PPE and ensure that workers use them.
  • Maintain equipment in a safe condition.

Supervisors

  • Demonstrate the safe use of ladders on the actual working terrain.
  • Monitor the workers’ performance. Demonstrate and reinforce the correct methods, remind them of the right technique, and provide additional training if necessary.
  • Ensure the workers are aware of known hazards and use the correct PPE.

Workers

  • Follow the safety training when using the tools and PPE.
  • Ask questions if the instructions are unclear or you didn’t understand them, or if you have questions that weren’t covered by the training.
  • Report unsafe equipment, PPE, or conditions and remember that you have the right to refuse unsafe work without repercussions.

Start each day with a thorough safety check of the ladder and other equipment, use them correctly, be aware of your work surroundings, and finish each day healthy and safe.

For more resources on ladder safety in orchards and vineyards and creating and managing a health and safety plan, visit worksafebc.com/agriculture