Safety and Equipment Flashcards

What OSHA ladder safety rule requires that a straight or extension ladder extend past the landing point?

Answer: 3 feet above the landing

OSHA 1926.1053 requires extension ladders to extend at least 3 feet above the upper landing surface to provide a safe handhold when stepping on or off.

What personal protective equipment (PPE) is required when cleaning gutters that may contain bird or rodent droppings?

Answer: Gloves and safety glasses as minimum; N95 respirator recommended for heavy contamination

Bird and rodent droppings can contain pathogens like Histoplasma and Hantavirus; gloves, eye protection, and an N95 respirator protect against exposure.

What is the correct angle for positioning a straight extension ladder against a wall for safe climbing?

Answer: 75 degrees from horizontal (4:1 ratio)

The 4:1 rule (75 degrees) means the base of the ladder is placed 1 foot out for every 4 feet of height, providing the optimal balance of stability and reach.

What is the minimum safe working distance from overhead power lines when using a metal ladder?

Answer: 10 feet

OSHA requires maintaining at least 10 feet of clearance from energized overhead power lines when using conductive (metal) ladders.

Which type of glove is most appropriate for handling sheet metal gutter sections and sharp aluminum coil edges?

Answer: Cut-resistant (Level A4 or higher) leather or synthetic gloves

Sheet metal edges are razor-sharp; cut-resistant gloves rated A4 or higher with puncture resistance are required to prevent severe lacerations.

When must a gutter contractor use fall protection on a residential job site according to OSHA guidelines?

Answer: When working at heights greater than 6 feet on residential construction

OSHA 29 CFR 1926.502 requires fall protection for residential construction workers at heights of 6 feet or more above lower levels.