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Portable Ladder Safety Tips
Falls from portable ladders (step, straight,
combination, and extension) are one of the leading causes of
occupational fatalities and injuries.
Ladder Placement Safety Tips
- The proper angle for setting up a ladder is to place its base a quarter
of the working length of the ladder from the wall or
other vertical surface (see diagram below).
- An extension or straight ladder used to access an elevated surface must extend
at least 3 feet above the point of support (see diagram below). Do not stand on the
three top rungs of a straight, single or extension ladder.
Climbing Safety Tips
- Always maintain a 3-point contact (example: two hands and a foot, or two feet and a hand)
on the ladder when climbing. Keep your body near the middle of
the step and always face the ladder while climbing (see diagram below).
General Safety Tips
- Read and follow all labels/markings on the ladder.
- Do not exceed the maximum load rating of a ladder. Be aware of the
ladder’s load rating and of the weight it is supporting, including the
weight of any tools or equipment.
- Avoid electrical hazards! – Look for overhead power lines before handling a
ladder. Avoid using a metal ladder near power lines or exposed
energized electrical equipment.
- Always inspect the ladder prior to using it. If the ladder
is damaged, it must be removed from service and tagged until repaired
or discarded.
- Do not use a self-supporting ladder (e.g., step ladder) as a single ladder or in a partially closed position.
- Do not use the top step/rung of a ladder as a step/rung unless it was designed for that purpose.
- Only use ladders and appropriate accessories (ladder levelers, jacks or hooks) for their designed purposes.
- Ladders must be free of any slippery material on the rungs, steps or feet.
- Do not use a self-supporting ladder (e.g., step ladder) as a single ladder or in a partially closed position.
- Use a ladder only on a stable and level surface, unless it has been secured (top or bottom) to prevent displacement.
- Do not place a ladder on boxes, barrels or other unstable bases to obtain additional height.
- Do not move or shift a ladder while a person or equipment is on the ladder.
- A ladder placed in any location where it can be displaced
by other work activities must be secured to prevent displacement or a
barricade must be erected to keep traffic away from the ladder.
- Be sure that all locks on an extension ladder are properly engaged.
Source: OSHA, US Department of Labor. Additional data may be available at
OSHA's website.
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