Ladder Safety
Each year, about 50 construction workers are killed as a result of falls from ladders. Many of these falls can be prevented by proper planning, correct ladder selection, good work procedures and ladder maintenance. OSHA recommends the following tips for safe use of portable ladders.
- Read all instructions and warning labels and inspect the ladder before every use.
- When placing the ladder, look overhead to make sure there are no electrical hazards.
- Make sure the ladder is placed on stable, level ground.
- Do not move a ladder while a person or equipment is on it.
- Be sure all locks are engaged.
- Always maintain three-point contact when climbing a ladder (two hands and a foot; two feet and a hand).
- Be sure to barricade a ladder if it is being placed in an area where it can be displaced by other work activity.
- Do not use the top rung of the ladder as a step unless the ladder has been specifically designed for that purpose.
- Always be aware of the ladder’s load rating and do not exceed this, also considering the weight of any equipment.
