Chapter 2 Safety 23 Copyright Goodheart-Willcox Co., Inc. Ladder L dd d dd dd er er e r leveller l l l l ev ev ev e e el e er er e er 3′ 4′ 16′ 12′ Goodheart-Willcox Publisher Figure 2-5. The base of an extension ladder should be set away from the structure a distance equal to one-quarter of the height where the ladder rests on the structure. Werner Co. Figure 2-6. Use a ladder leveler when positioning a ladder on an uneven surface. When working on any type of ladder, always face the ladder. See Figure 2-7. Never use the top 7 7 rung or step of a ladder for support. Check lad- ders often for step rot or other structural damage. Tighten any connecting hardware as needed to ensure joints are tight so the ladder does not wob- ble or lean. Discard ladders in poor condition. Scaffolds Wooden scaffolds are preferred to metal scaf- folds for electrical work. If a metal scaffold must be used, it should be grounded. Scaffolds higher than 10′ must have a guardrail. Lock all wheels, if equipped, to prevent unwanted movement. See Figure 2-8. Tie off the scaffold when its height exceeds four times the width of the scaf- fold base. For example, if the base is 3′ wide, the scaffold must be tied off if it is any taller than 12′. Always climb a scaffold using the integrated ′ ladder rungs on the scaffold sections. Never climb on the braces.