Section 21.52. Use

(a) Portable ladders shall, when possible, be used at such a pitch that the horizontal distance from the top support to the foot of the ladder is 1/4 the length of the ladder. The ladder shall be so placed as to prevent slipping, or it shall be lashed or held in position.

(b) Crowding on ladders is not permitted.

(c) Portable ladders shall be so placed that the side rails have a secure footing. The top rest for portable ladders shall be reasonably rigid and have ample strength to support the applied load.

(d) Ladders may not be placed at the following:

(1) In front of doors opening toward the ladder unless the door is blocked open, locked or guarded.

(2) On boxes, barrels or other unstable bases to obtain additional height.

(e) It is recommended that a ladder be provided with a board across the top before placing it against window frames.

(f) It is recommended that ladders be faced when ascending or descending.

(g) Ladders with broken or missing steps, broken side rails or other faulty equipment may not be used.

(h) Short ladders may not be spliced together to provide long sections.

(i) Ladders made by fastening cleats across a single rail may not be used.

(j) In building construction, if warranted by height of operations or traffic conditions, separate ladders shall be designated for ascent and descent.

(k) Ladders shall not be used as a guy, brace or skid or for other than their intended purposes.