Metal Ladders

[paul161]

I am a trainee electrician i was replacing light fittings with the circuit still live i was using a metal step ladder. I was told in college that you should use a wooden one or a fibreglass one. The electrican i was working with just earth the metal ladder with a wire and two big clamps one attached the the ladder and one attached to a metal pipe.
I was under the impression the reason for using wooden or fibreglass ladders is so that you are not earthed.
Is he right to earth ladders?

 

[Spudnik]

Wooden and fibreglass ladders and steps are designed to protect you in the rare occasion that a live conductor should touch it whilst you are on it.

 

[Hawk81]

you have been training for 6 weeks and your employer has asked yot to work live. What is he thinking???? And then to top that he gives you earthed metal steps. Do NOT work for this clown again.

 

[davelerave]

Wooden and fibreglass ladders and steps are designed to protect you in the rare occasion that a live conductor should touch it whilst you are on it.

most importantly they isolate the sparkie

but ya if a metal ladder became live you would get a 'belt' when climbing on or off

-but earthing makes it more dangerous as the main risk is direct /indirect contact if working live on the ladder