MITIGATE RISKS

• Read the labels on the ladder. They provide important information about the ladder, its proper uses and warnings.

• Inspect the ladder before each use. If it is damaged, do not take the chance.

• Avoid ladders if you are fatigued, dizzy or have balance problems.

• Do not use ladders in high winds or storms.

CHOOSE THE APPROPRIATE LADDER

MATERIAL

• Choose the appropriate ladder material for the task. Ladders are generally made of one of three materials: wood, aluminum or fiberglass. Aluminum is the lightest material, but it is conductive. If you are working near power lines of any voltage, you risk electrocution.

RATING

• Check the ladder’s duty rating. The weight includes your body weight, the weight of your clothing and protective equipment, and the weight of any tools or supplies you carry on the ladder.

LENGTH

• A ladder can be too short, but it can also be too long.

• With a step ladder, standing on the top cap or the step below it is unsafe because it increases the risk of losing your balance.

• With an extension ladder, the top three rungs are not for climbing.

• A ladder is too long if the ceiling height does not allow it to be set at the proper angle.

• An extension or straight ladder must extend at least 3 feet above the point of support. However, the portion above the support can act as a lever and destabilize the ladder. Exercise care when dismounting onto the elevated surface, and do not place your feet on rungs above the point of support.

STABILITY

• Proper footing: Use a ladder only on stable, level surfaces unless it has been secured at the top or bottom. Do not place a ladder on unstable bases to gain extra height. Do not move or shift a ladder while a person or equipment is on it.

• Be mindful of surroundings: Ladders can be displaced by other work activities. If you are unsure about nearby activities, equipment or personnel, secure the ladder or erect a barricade to keep traffic away. Avoid placing a ladder in front of a door that could open.

• Correct angle: The ladder should be angled so the base is approximately one-quarter of the working length from the object it rests against (see sketch).

• Locks and braces: Make sure all locks and braces are in place before using the ladder.

• Overhead power lines: Watch for overhead power lines, particularly when using metal ladders. Even low-voltage shocks can cause you to lose your footing and fall.

• Maintain three-point contact: Always keep three points of contact on the ladder—two hands and one foot, or two feet and one hand. Keep your body near the center of the step and face the ladder while climbing. Move slowly and deliberately, avoiding sudden movements (see sketch).

• Footwear: Wear slip-resistant boots or shoes and keep the soles clean to maximize traction.

• Carrying tools: Use towlines or a tool belt to move materials up and down the ladder so your hands remain free for climbing.

• Avoid overreaching: Do not lean or overreach while working. Keep your weight centered within the ladder.

• Keep ladder clean: Ensure the rungs and feet are free of any slippery substances.

• One person at a time: Only one person should be on a ladder at a time.

WHEN IS A LADDER A POOR CHOICE?

While a ladder or stepladder is commonly used to reach higher work areas, it may not always be the best option. Ask yourself:

• Will I need to hold heavy items while on the ladder?

• Is the elevated area high enough that it would require a long ladder, which could be unstable?

• Will I be working from this height for an extended period?

• Will I need to stand on the ladder sideways to complete the work?

If you answer yes to any of these questions, a ladder may not be the safest tool. If possible, consider using other equipment, such as a scissor lift or a boom/bucket lift.

RESOURCES AND REFERENCES

OSHA Publications

https://www.osha.gov/pls/publications/publication.AthruZ?pType=AthruZ#L

American Ladder Institute (videos)

http://www.americanladderinstitute.org/page/LSTVideos

American Ladder Institute (training)

https://www.laddersafetytraining.org/