Section 21.51. Care

(a) Maintenance. Ladders shall be maintained in good condition at all times, the joint between the steps and side rails shall be tight, all hardware and fittings shall be securely attached, and the movable parts shall operate freely without binding or undue play.

(b) Lubrication. Metal bearings of locks, wheels, pulleys and other instruments shall be frequently lubricated.

(c) Rope. Frayed or badly worn rope is prohibited.

(d) Safety feet. Safety feet and other auxilliary equipment shall be kept in good condition to insure proper performance.

(e) Storage. Ladders should be stored in such a manner as to provide ease of access for inspection and to prevent danger of accident when withdrawing a ladder for use.

(f) Storage location. It is recommended that wood ladders, when not in use, be stored at a location where they are not exposed to the elements but where there is good ventilation. They shall not be stored near radiators, stoves, steam pipes or other places subjected to excessive heat or dampness.

(g) Horizontal storage. It is recommended that ladders stored in a horizontal position be supported at a sufficient number of points to avoid sagging and permanent set.

(h) On vehicles. It is recommended that ladders carried on vehicles be adequately supported to avoid sagging and securely fastened in position to minimize chafing and the effects of road shocks.

(i) Preservation. It is recommended that ladders be kept coated with a suitable preservative material.

(j) Inspection. Ladders shall be inspected frequently and those which have developed defects shall be withdrawn from service for repair or destruction and tagged or marked ‘‘Dangerous, do not use.’’

(k) Slipping. It is recommended that rungs be kept free of grease and oil and metal rungs suitably roughened to prevent slipping.