Ladder Basics - Parts and Pieces

Salem Harvest has 12-foot and 8-foot tripod aluminum orchard ladders available to use. The ladders are called "tripod" because they have three points touching the ground - two feet and a pole for balance. When ladders are used on uneven ground, three feet are better than four for stability.

Setting Up a Ladder - Safe and Unsafe Techniques

1. Raise the ladder to a vertical position, looking overhead for dangers.
2. Swing the pole out away from the rungs (too far away or too close to the rungs can cause the ladder to fall)
3. Always use the pole to support the ladder; never lean it against a tree
4. Center the pole between the two feet and not pushed to one side.
5. Step onto the lowest rung and feel that the ladder is secure before climbing any higher.

*When setting up the ladder on a slope, the pole MUST go uphill, meaning the pole must be on higher ground than the feet.

*Ladders can only be set up on soft ground and NEVER on rock or paved surfaces.

Moving a Ladder - Safe and Unsafe Techniques

Safe!

• Always use TWO hands to move a ladder
• Ladders can be moved by one or two people
• If two people are moving the ladder, both should be on the same side
• Ladders can be carried horizontally or vertically
• If carried horizontally, the top (small end) is at the front
• Balance the ladder for carrying by lifting it towards the bottom where it is heavier
• Always have the pole next to your body, secured in the notch, and held in place when carrying a ladder. (see photo)

Not Safe!

• Do not carry a ladder alone if you are not comfortable
• Avoid allowing the pole to jump out of the notch
• The ladder is most likely to be damaged if the pole is twisted
• Do not hold the pole on the same side as your body, but rather reach your arm over the rail to the other side to grab the pole. (see photo)

Turning a Ladder - How to Turn and What to Avoid

Turning Option A

1. Stand under the ladder.
2. Put one hand on the pole and the other arm around the nearest rung, and with that hand, grab a rung.
3. Lift both the pole and the feet completely off the ground and turn or reposition the ladder.

Turning Option B

1. Bring in the pole and place it into the notch.
2. Lift the ladder off the ground with your arm around the rung.
3. Be sure the pole is held in the notch while moving.

Once the ladder has been turned or repositioned, check that the ladder is set up properly and pole is centered on the rungs.

Never try to turn the ladder by lifting only the pole and pushing it to one side.

Climbing and Harvesting - Safety and Tips

• You must be over 13 years old to use a ladder at a harvest.
• Only ONE person on a ladder at a time.
• Keep your body centered on the ladder.
• Do not lean out so far that your belt buckle goes beyond the rail.
• The third rung from the top is the highest rung you can stand on.
• Always have both feet on the ladder when harvesting.
• Only climb as high as you feel comfortable.
• If you notice any problems with a ladder, tell a Harvest Leader right away.

If you are ever wondering how to use a ladder or feeling unsure, ALWAYS ask for help! A Harvest Leader will be happy help!

That's all, folks!

You are now ready to take the Ladder Safety Test!

• When you click the test button, a link to the test will be emailed to the address you provided when registering as a volunteer.
• To pass the test, you will need to get 21 of the 26 Yes-or-No questions correct.