Ladder Safety

SUMMARY

Missing that last step and overreaching are the two most cited factors in causes of ladder accidents, according to 2016–2019 studies by the American Ladder Institute (ALI). These and similar types of accidents can be easily avoided by adopting the following precautions of basic ladder safety. Be sure to check out the Resources section below for additional ladder safety tools.

GENERAL INFORMATION

Best Practices for Safe Ladder Use

Get the Right-Sized Ladder for the Job
One of the factors in getting the right ladder for the job is length. A good rule of thumb when selecting a ladder is to calculate a person’s maximum reach height, which is approximately 4 feet higher than the height of the ladder. Duty rating is important as well, so be sure to pick the right ladder for your workload and weight.
Place Your Ladder on Firm, Level Ground
Be sure to clear trash, construction materials, and other obstructions away from the base and top of the ladder. The base of the ladder should be safely secured to prevent accidental movement. You can also use a ladder with non-slip feet or add outriggers or levelers to the bottom of an extension ladder to increase the footprint.
Take Your Time Climbing Down—Don’t Skip Any Steps
Exercise caution whether you are climbing down or up a ladder. Always face the ladder when climbing up or down, and be cautious until you’re on the ground.
Keep Three Points of Contact When Climbing Up or Down
To keep your balance, always maintain three points of contact—two hands and a foot or two feet and a hand—while climbing up or down a ladder.
Stay Within Your Reach
When working from a ladder, keep your center of gravity and body between the side rails. If you can’t easily reach the project area once you have ascended the ladder, climb down and move the ladder more closely in alignment.