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Can platform ladders be used as extension ladders?

A person submitted this question to Rosie's free generator. The asker's identity is neither imported nor published.

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I wasn't able to find specific regulations or manufacturer guidelines that discuss using platform ladders as substitutes for extension ladders. However, here is some general safety advice regarding platform ladders. Before using any elevating platform, inspect the job site for potential hazards such as ditches, drop-offs, holes, bumps, obstructions, debris, untamped earth fills, overhead obstructions, electrical wires, moving vehicles, oncoming traffic, hazardous atmospheres, and weather conditions. [2]

[1] Always ensure the work platform is used only in accordance with the manufacturer's or owner's operating instructions and safety rules. Before each elevation of the work platform, check for overhead obstructions and high-voltage conductors, ensuring a minimum safe distance is maintained. Make sure the work platform is elevated only on a firm and level surface. Ensure the load and its distribution on the platform are within the manufacturer's rated capacity, and never exceed this limit. If required, use outriggers or stabilizers according to the manufacturer's instructions. Confirm that platform guardrails are properly installed and gates or openings are closed, and that all occupants' safety belts are correctly fastened. Personnel should maintain a firm footing on the platform, and safety harness/lanyard devices fixed to approved attachment points should be used by all occupants. The use of railings, planks, ladders, or any other device on the work platform, except as provided by the manufacturer, is prohibited. [3] [8] [10] [11] [12]

To prevent slip and fall hazards, keep the platform, shoes, and steps free from oil, mud, grease, and other slippery substances. Always keep both feet on the platform floor while working and traveling with the aerial lift, and do not lean over or stand on platform guard-railings. Ensure that platform guardrails are not damaged and the entry gate is closed after entering the platform. [6] [7] [9] [4] [5]

12 source record(s)

Sources used for this answer

[1] Terex TB110 Electric 9/97 (PN [redacted postal code]) - Operator's Manual

Page 95

Open source document

Source excerpt

# TB110 (SPECIAL) OPERATOR'S MANUAL 13.1.3 Before the work platform is used and during use, the job site shall be checked for hazards such as difches, dropoffs or holes, bumps and floor obstructions, debris, overhead obstructions and high-voltage conductors, and other possible hazardous conditions. ## 13.2 During Operation 13.2.1 The work platform shall be used only in accordance with the manufacturer's / owner's operating instructions and safety rules. - 13.2.2 Before each elevation of the work platform, the operator shall: (1) Check for overhead obstructions and high-voltage conductors. A minimum distance from energized high-voltage conductors shall be maintained at all times in accordance with applicable regulations and standards. (2) Make sure the work platform is elevated only on a firm and level surface. (3) Make sure the load and its distribution on the platform are in accordance with the manufacturer's rated capacity. The manufacturer's rated work load shall never be exceeded. (4) Make sure outriggers or stabilizers, if required, are used in accordance with manufacturer's instructions. (5) Make sure platform guardrails are properly installed and gates or opening are closed. (6) Check to see that all occupants' safety belts are on and properly attached. - 13.2.3 Before and during driving while elevated, the operator shall: (1) Look in the direction of, and keep a clear view of, the path of travel and make sure that the path is firm and level. (2) Maintain a safe distance from obstacles, debris, dropoffs, holes, depressions, ramps, and other hazards to safe elevated travel. (3) Maintain a safe distance from overhead obstacles. - 13.2.4 Under all travel conditions the operator shall limit travel speed according to conditions of ground surface, congestion, slope, location of personnel, and other factors causing hazard of collision or injury to personnel. - 13.2.5 Stunt driving and horseplay shall not be permitted. - 13.2.6 Personnel sha

[2] Simon MP 60 Electro-proportional (PN 89-161302) - Operator's Manual

Page 84

Open source document

Source excerpt

# MP 60 ELECTRO-PROPORTIONAL OPERATOR'S MANUAL 13.1.3 Before the work platform is used and during use, the job site shall be checked for hazards such as ditches, dropoffs or holes, bumps and floor obstructions, debris, overhead obstructions and high-voltage conductors, and other possible hazardous conditions. ## 13.2 During Operation 13.2.1 The work platform shall be used only in accordance with the manufacturer's / owner's operating instructions and safety rules. - 13.2.2 Before each elevation of the work platform, the operator shall: (1) Check for overhead obstructions and high-voltage conductors. A minimum distance from energized high-voltage conductors shall be maintained at all times in accordance with applicable regulations and standards. (2) Make sure the work platform is elevated only on a firm and level surface. (3) Make sure the load and its distribution on the platform are in accordance with the manufacturer's rated capacity. The manufacturer's rated work load shall never be exceeded. (4) Make sure outriggers or stabilizers, if required, are used in accordance with manufacturer's instructions. (5) Make sure platform guardrails are properly installed and gates or opening are closed. (6) Check to see that all occupants' safety belts are on and properly attached. - 13.2.3 Before and during driving while elevated, the operator shall: (1) Look in the direction of, and keep a clear view of, the path of travel and make sure that the path is firm and level. (2) Maintain a safe distance from obstacles, debris, dropoffs, holes, depressions, ramps, and other hazards to safe elevated travel. (3) Maintain a safe distance from overhead obstacles. - 13.2.4 Under all travel conditions the operator shall limit travel speed according to conditions of ground surface, congestion, slope, location of personnel, and other factors causing hazard of collision or injury to personnel. - 13.2.5 Stunt driving and horseplay shall not be permitted. - 13.2.6 Pe

[3] Self-propelled Boom Models CH80C, CH100C (pn [redacted postal code]) - Operator's Manual

Page 7

Open source document

Source excerpt

# SAFETY (cont.) MARK INDUSTRIES # OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE # SAFETY 3. Keep platform, shoes, and steps free from oil, mud, grease, and other slippery substances. 4. Make sure the platform guardrails are not damaged and_the entry gate is closed after entering the platform. ! GENERAL INFORMATION 1. Secure all tools and other materials in the platform to prevent them from accidently falling or being knocked from the platform. 2. When other vehicles or moving equipment are present, comply with all local ordinances, safety rules, and warning rules for the workplace. 3. Do not allow ground personnel around or under raised platform. 4. Do not use the aerial lift for horseplay, stunt driving, or recreational use. Report any misuse of equipment to the appropriate personnel. 5. Always wear approved headgear, eye protection, foot protection, and fall-protection. 6. Do not work on the platform if you are dizzy, unsteady, or feel physically impaired in any way. 7. When leaving aerial lift, lower platform to stowed position and remove key from ground control to prevent unauthorized use. 8. Do not operate the aerial lift until it has been properly inspected, maintained, and serviced. Any problems or malfunctions should be reported immediately to the supervisor and operations stopped until corrected. 9. See the Before Operation section of this manual for decal listing and replace those that are missing or not legible. CH80C, CH100C Page 2 - 3 Issued: 20 April 94

[4] Platforms - Elevating Platforms

Page 2

Open source document

Source excerpt

# What are some hazards to look for on the job site? Check job site for: - ditches, - drop-offs or holes, - bumps and obstructions, - debris, - untamped earth fills, - overhead obstructions and electrical wires, - moving vehicles or oncoming traffic, - hazardous atmosphere, and - weather conditions. ## What should be inspected before using the platform? Keep a log of all inspections and repairs. Report all concerns before use. Do not use until all issues have been addressed by a qualified person. Inspect the platform at the beginning of each shift for: - the correct loading capacity for the job, - overall frame condition, - uncontrolled motion, - loose connections or missing fasteners, - improper adjustments, - cracked welds, - broken or fraying wire ropes, - damaged electrical wires, or hydraulic or pneumatic lines, - inefficient brakes, - poor tire condition and pressure, - missing load capacity postings, - adequate fuel supply, - damage to ladder or steps, Platforms - Elevating Platforms CCOHS

[5] Self-propelled Boom Model CH60/CH66C (pn [redacted postal code]) - Operator's Manual

Page 7

Open source document

Source excerpt

# SAFETY (cont.) MARK INDUSTRIES OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE # SAFETY 3. Keep platform. shoes. and steps free from oil, mud, grease, and other slippery substances. 4. Make sure the platform guardrails are not damaged and_the entry gate is closed after entering the platform. ! GENERAL INFORMATION 1. Secure all tools and other materials in the platform to prevent them from accidently falling or being knocked from the platform. 2. When other vehicles or moving equipment are present. comply with all local ordinances, safety rules, and warning rules for the workplace. 3. Do not allow ground personnel around or under raised platform. 4. Do not use the aerial lift for horseplay, stunt driving. or recreational use. Report any misuse of equipment to the appropriate personnel. 5. Always wear approved headgear, eye protection. foot protection, and fall-protection. 6. Do not work on the platform if you are dizzy. unsteady, or feel physically impaired in any way. 7. When leaving aerial lift. lower platform to stowed position and remove key from ground control to prevent unauthorized use. 8. Do not operate the aerial lift until it has been properly inspected. maintained, and serviced. Any problems or malfunctions should be reported immediately to the supervisor and operations stopped until corrected. 9. See the Before Operation section of this manual for decal listing and replace those that are missing or not legible. CH 60 C Page 2 - 3 Issued: 10 Jan 94

[6] Self-propelled Boom Model CH44C/CH50C (pn [redacted postal code]) - Operator's Manual

Page 7

Open source document

Source excerpt

# SAFETY (cont.) MARK INDUSTRIES OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE # SAFETY 3. Keep platform, shoes, and steps free from oil, mud, grease, and other slippery substances. 4. Make sure the platform guardrails are not damaged and the entry gate is closed after entering the platform. ! GENERAL INFORMATION 1. Secure all tools and other materials in the platform to prevent them from accidently falling or being knocked from the platform. 2. When other vehicles or moving equipment are present, comply with all local ordinances, safety rules, and warning rules for the workplace. 3. Do not allow ground personnel around or under raised platform. 4. Do not use the aerial lift for horseplay, stunt driving, or recreational use. Report any misuse of equipment to the appropriate personnel. 5. Always wear approved headgear, eye protection, foot protection, and fall-protection. 6. Do not work on the platform if you are dizzy, unsteady. or feel physically impaired in any way. 7. When leaving aerial lift, lower platform to stowed position and remove key from ground control to prevent unauthorized use. 8. Do not operate the aerial lift until it has been properly inspected. maintained, and serviced. Any problems or malfunctions should be reported immediately to the supervisor and operations stopped until corrected. 9. See the Before Operation section of this manual for decal listing and replace those that are missing or not legible. CH44C/CH50C Page 2 - 3 Issued: Nov 95

[7] Simon MP 80 Full Hydraulic (PN 89-180102) - Operator's Manual

Page 87

Open source document

Source excerpt

# MP 80 FULL HYDRAULIC OPERATOR'S MANUAL - 13.1.3 Before the work platform is used and during use, the job site shall be checked for hazards such as ditches, dropoffs or holes, bumps and floor obstructions, debris, overhead obstructions and high-voltage conductors, and other possible hazardous conditions. ## 13.2 During Operation 13.2.1 The work platform shall be used only in accordance with the manufacturer's / owner's operating instructions and safety rules. - 13.2.2 Before each elevation of the work platform, the operator shall: (1) Check for overhead obstructions and high-voltage conductors. A minimum distance from energized high-voltage conductors shall be maintained at all times in accordance with applicable regulations and standards. (2) Make sure the work platform is elevated only on a firm and level surface. (3) Make sure the load and its distribution on the platform are in accordance with the manufacturer's rated capacity. The manufacturer's rated work load shall never be exceeded. (4) Make sure outriggers or stabilizers, if required, are used in accordance with manufacturer's instructions. (5) Make sure platform guardrails are properly installed and gates or opening are closed. (6) Check to see that all occupants' safety belts are on and properly attached. 13.2.3 Before and during driving while elevated, the operator shall: (1) Look in the direction of, and keep a clear view of, the path of travel and make sure that the path is firm and level. (2) Maintain a safe distance from obstacles, debris, dropoffs, holes, depressions, ramps, and other hazards to safe elevated travel. (3) Maintain a safe distance from overhead obstacles. - 13.2.4 Under all travel conditions the operator shall limit travel speed according to conditions of ground surface, congestion, slope, location of personnel, and other factors causing hazard of collision or injury to personnel. - 13.2.5 Stunt driving and horseplay shall not be permitted. - 13.2.6 Per

[8] Simon MP 40 Electro-proportional (PN 89-141302) - Operator's Manual

Page 84

Open source document

Source excerpt

# MP 40 ELECTRO-PROPORTIONAL OPERATOR'S MANUAL 13.1.3 Before the work platform is used and during use, the job site shall be checked for hazards such as ditches, dropoffs or holes, bumps and floor obstructions, debris, overhead obstructions and high-voltage conductors, and other possible hazardous conditions. ## 13.2 During Operation 13.2.1 The work platform shall be used only in accordance with the manufacturer's / owner's operating instructions and safety rules. 13.2.2 Before each elevation of the work platform, the operator shall: (1) Check for overhead obstructions and high-voltage conductors. A minimum distance from energized high-voltage conductors shall be maintained at all times in accordance with applicable regulations and standards. (2) Make sure the work platform is elevated only on a firm and level surface. (3) Make sure the load and its distribution on the platform are in accordance with the manufacturer's rated capacity. The manufacturer's rated work load shall never be exceeded. (4) Make sure outriggers or stabilizers, if required, are used in accordance with manufacturer's instructions. (5) Make sure platform guardrails are properly installed and gates or opening are closed. (6) Check to see that all occupants' safety belts are on and properly attached. 13.2.3 Before and during driving while elevated, the operator shall: (1) Look in the direction of, and keep a clear view of, the path of travel and make sure that the path is firm and level. (2) Maintain a safe distance from obstacles, debris, dropoffs, holes, depressions, ramps, and other hazards to safe elevated travel. (3) Maintain a safe distance from overhead obstacles. - 13.2.4 Under all travel conditions the operator shall limit travel speed according to conditions of ground surface, congestion, slope, location of personnel, and other factors causing hazard of collision or injury to personnel. - 13.2.5 Stunt driving and horseplay shall not be permitted. - 13.2.6 Personnel sh

[9] Simon MP 40 Full Hydraulic (PN 89-140102) - Operator's Manual

Page 86

Open source document

Source excerpt

# MP 40 FULL HYDRAULIC OPERATOR'S MANUAL - 13.1.3 Before the work platform is used and during use, the job site shall be checked for hazards such as ditches, dropoffs or holes, bumps and floor obstructions, debris, overhead obstructions and high-voltage conductors, and other possible hazardous conditions. - 13.2 During Operation - 13.2.1 The work platform shall be used only in accordance with the manufacturer's / owner's operating instructions and safety rules. - 13.2.2 Before each elevation of the work platform, the operator shall: (1) Check for overhead obstructions and high-voltage conductors. A minimum distance from energized high-voltage conductors shall be maintained at all times in accordance with applicable regulations and standards. (2) Make sure the work platform is elevated only on a firm and level surface. (3) Make sure the load and its distribution on the platform are in accordance with the manufacturer's rated capacity. The manufacturer's rated work load shall never be exceeded. (4) Make sure outriggers or stabilizers, if required, are used in accordance with manufacturer's instructions. (5) Make sure platform guardrails are properly installed and gates or opening are closed. (6) Check to see that all occupants' safety belts are on and properly attached. 13.2.3 Before and during driving while elevated, the operator shall: (1) Look in the direction of, and keep a clear view of, the path of travel and make sure that the path is firm and level. (2) Maintain a safe distance from obstacles, debris, dropoffs, holes, depressions, ramps, and other hazards to safe elevated travel. (3) Maintain a safe distance from overhead obstacles. 13.2.4 Under all travel conditions the operator shall limit travel speed according to conditions of ground surface, congestion, slope, location of personnel, and other factors causing hazard of collision or injury to personnel. - 13.2.5 Stunt driving and horseplay shall not be permitted. - 13.2.6 Per

[10] Self-propelled Boom Lift Model CH85C (pn [redacted postal code]) - Operator's Manual

Page 7

Open source document

Source excerpt

# SAFETY (cont.) MARK INDUSTRIES OPERATOR'S MANUAL SAFETY SLIP AND FALL PREVENTION 1. Keep platform, shoes, and steps free from oil, mud, grease, and other slippery substances. 2. Do not use planks, ladders, scaffolding, or any other device on the platform to obtain greater height or extend working area. 3. Always keep both feet on platform floor while working and traveling with aerial lift. Do not lean over or stand on platform guard-railings. 4. Make sure the platform guardrails are not damaged and the entry gate is closed after entering the platform. ! GENERAL INFORMATION 1. Secure all tools and other materials in the platform to prevent them from accidently falling out or being knocked off from the platform. 2. When other vehicles or moving equipment are present, comply with all local ordinances, safety rules, and warning rules for the workplace. 3. Do not allow ground personnel around or under raised platform. 4. Do not use the aerial lift for horseplay, stunt driving, or recreational use. Report any misuse of equipment to the appropriate personnel. 5. Always wear approved headgear, eye protection, foot protection, and fall-protection. 6. Do not work on the platform if you are dizzy, unsteady, or feel physically impaired in any way. 7. When leaving aerial lift, lower platform to stowed position and remove key from ground control to prevent unauthorized use. 8. Do not operate the aerial lift until it has been properly inspected, maintained, and serviced. Any problems or malfunctions should be reported immediately to the supervisor and operations stopped until corrected. 9. See the Before Operation section of this manual for decal listing and replace those that are missing or not legible. 10. Refuel aerial lift in a well ventilated area free of any hazards which may cause fuel fumes to ignite. CH85C Page 2 3 Issued: APR 97

[11] Self-propelled Knuckle Boom Aerial Lift Mode: CH64KB (pn [redacted postal code]) - Operator's Manual

Page 7

Open source document

Source excerpt

# SAFETY (cont.) MARK INDUSTRIES OPERATOR'S MANUAL # SAFETY ! SLIP AND FALL PREVENTION 1. Keep platform, shoes, and steps free from oil, mud, grease, and other slippery substances. 2. Do not use planks, ladders, scaffolding, or any other device on the platform to obtain greater height or extend working area. 3. Always keep both feet on platform floor while working and traveling with aerial lift. Do not lean over or stand on platform guard-railings. 4. Make sure the platform guardrails are not damaged and the entry gate is closed after entering the platform. ! GENERAL INFORMATION 1. Secure all tools and other materials in the platform to prevent them from accidently falling out or being knocked off from the platform. 2. When other vehicles or moving equipment are present, comply with all local ordinances, safety rules, and warning rules for the workplace. 3. Do not allow ground personnel around or under raised platform. 4. Do not use the aerial lift for horseplay, stunt driving, or recreational use. Report any misuse of equipment to the appropriate personnel. 5. Always wear approved headgear, eye protection, foot protection, and fall-protection. 6. Do not work on the platform if you are dizzy, unsteady, or feel physically impaired in any way. 7. When leaving aerial lift, lower platform to stowed position and remove key from ground control to prevent unauthorized use. 8. Do not operate the aerial lift until it has been properly inspected, maintained, and serviced. Any problems or malfunctions should be reported immediately to the supervisor and operations stopped until corrected. 9. See the Before Operation section of this manual for decal listing and replace those that are missing or not legible. 10. Refuel aerial lift in a well ventilated area free of any hazards which may cause fuel fumes to ignite. CH64KB Page 2 - 3 Issued: FEB 97

[12] Platforms - Elevating Platforms

Page 3

Open source document

Source excerpt

# What are some hazards to look for on the job site? (cont.) ## What should be inspected before using the platform? (cont.) broken safety devices (horns, emergency controls, gates, fall protection, anchorage points, etc.). Inspections are also required on an annual as well as frequent or "hours of use" basis. See manufacturer's guidelines or standards such as CSA B354.7:17 (R2022) Mobile elevating work platforms - Safety principles, inspection, maintenance and operation. ## What should you do before raising or moving the platform? - Check for overhead obstructions and electrical wires. Laws set minimum distances that platforms must be from electrical wires. - Place on a firm and level surface only. - Position outriggers or stabilizers. - Install platform guardrails properly and check that gates or openings are closed. - Retract the extendable platforms before raising or lowering the device. - Make sure all controls are clearly labelled with action and direction. Ensure that barriers on scissor-type lifting mechanisms are in place to prevent entry. - Ensure that ropes, electrical cords, and hoses will not entangle in the work platform. - Load the platform evenly according to the manufacturer's instructions. - Do not trap the operator between the platform and the structure (e.g., the operator becomes trapped in a confined space and may not be able to reach the controls). - Do not overload the platform. - Do not allow workers on or near the platform during raising or lowering. - Make sure that the proper fall protection equipment is available and used by trained workers and a designated tie-off point is used. Fact sheet last revised: 2024-11-27 ## Disclaimer Although every effort is made to ensure the accuracy, currency and completeness of the information, CCOHS does not guarantee, warrant, represent or undertake that the information provided is correct, accurate or current. CCOHS is not liable for any loss, claim, or demand arising direct

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