07 Jan Ladder Safety

Ladder Safety

Ladder safety begins with proper transport, setup, inspection, and use. Before climbing, make sure the ladder is appropriate for the task and positioned securely.

• When transporting a ladder, keep the front end elevated and maintain awareness of people, equipment, doors, and overhead hazards.
• Side rails of a portable ladder used to access an upper landing should extend at least 3 feet above the landing surface.
• Set non-self-supporting ladders at approximately a 4:1 ratio—1 foot out from the supporting surface for every 4 feet of ladder working length.
• Keep ladders free of oil, mud, grease, and other substances that could create a slipping hazard.
• Never load a ladder beyond the manufacturer’s rated capacity. Consider the combined weight of the worker, tools, equipment, and materials.
• Use ladders only for the purposes for which they were designed.
• Place ladders on stable, level surfaces unless they are properly secured to prevent displacement.
• Secure or barricade ladders located near passageways, doorways, driveways, or other areas where workers, vehicles, or equipment could strike them.
• Always face the ladder when climbing or descending.
• Maintain a secure grip and three points of contact whenever possible while climbing.
• Do not carry tools, materials, or other loads that could cause you to lose your balance. Use a tool belt, hand line, or other appropriate method instead.

Never improvise ladder setup or take shortcuts simply because a task will only take a few minutes. Inspect the ladder and work area before every use.