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|  | Ladder SafetyThe Right Ladder • The Right Way • Every Time
Portable ladders are among the most commonly used tools in our workplaces. Whether performing maintenance, cleaning, painting, or other routine tasks, ladders provide convenient access to elevated work areas. Yet ladder misuse remains one of the leading causes of workplace injuries. Knowing how to select the right ladder, inspect it for hazards, and use it properly can help prevent falls and other injuries.
Get Trained
Before using a portable ladder, complete any Portable Ladder Safety training required by your school or unit through myHR Learn. | |
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| Ladder Falls: A Serious RiskFalls from ladders can result in serious injuries, even from relatively low heights.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), ladder-related injuries remain a significant hazard both at work and at home. More than 500,000 people are treated for ladder-related injuries each year, and approximately 300 people die from ladder-related falls annually. Many of these incidents are preventable through proper ladder selection, inspection, setup, and use. |
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| Start with the Right EquipmentBefore reaching for a ladder, ask yourself whether one is necessary. Many tasks can be completed using alternative tools that eliminate the need for climbing. For example, extension poles can often be used to change light bulbs or reach elevated surfaces from the ground. If a ladder is the best option:
- Choose a ladder that provides adequate reach without standing on the top step or overreaching.
- Use a ladder appropriate for the work environment.
- Use fiberglass ladders near electrical hazards. Never use metal ladders near energized equipment or power lines.
- Verify the ladder’s duty rating and load capacity can support you, tools, and materials.
- Do not use ladders with missing safety labels.
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| Inspect Before Every UseA damaged or defective ladder can be hazardous. Before each use, inspect the ladder for:
- Missing or damaged rungs
- Cracked side rails
- Loose or missing hardware
- Corrosion or excessive wear
- Defective locks, spreaders, or moving parts
- Any condition that could affect safe use
Remove damaged or defective ladders from service immediately and report them for repair or replacement.
Learn more about ladder inspections |
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| Safe Ladder UseFollow these essential ladder safety practices every time:
- Secure the work area to protect yourself and others from hazards.
- Place ladders on firm, level, stable surfaces.
- Use the 4:1 rule for extension and straight ladders: position the base 1 foot out for every 4 feet of ladder height.
- Never use a stepladder in a folded position.
- Never stand on the top rung, top cap, or highest step.
- Maintain 3 points of contact: two hands and one foot, or two feet and one hand.
- Move the ladder instead of overreaching to avoid loss of balance.
- Remove tools and materials from the ladder before moving it.
- Use a tool belt or raise and lower materials separately.
- Face the ladder when climbing or descending.
Learn more about ladder safe work practices |
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