Give me 3 key safety reminders for using a-frame ladders

Key safety reminders for using A-frame ladders (stepladders): inspect the ladder before each use; make sure it is the right ladder and duty rating for the job; fully open the ladder and lock the spreaders; set all four feet on a firm, level, dry, non-slippery surface; keep the ladder away from doors, traffic, and electrical hazards; maintain three points of contact while climbing; keep your body centered between the side rails; never stand on the top step or top cap; do not overreach, move, or "walk" the ladder while on it; and remove damaged ladders from service immediately. OSHA requires employers to train workers to recognize ladder hazards and to follow ladder safety requirements in 29 CFR 1926 Subpart X. [1] [4] [2]

Inspection and condition checks:

• Inspect before each use for bent, broken, split, cracked, loose, corroded, or missing parts.
• Check steps/rungs, side rails, bolts, rivets, braces, spreaders, feet, and slip-resistant pads.
• Make sure the ladder is clean and free of grease, oil, mud, wet paint, or other slippery substances.
• Tag and remove defective ladders from service; do not use damaged ladders.

[1] [12] [11] Proper setup and locking spreaders:

• Use the stepladder only in the fully open position.
• Fully open both legs and lock the spreader brace bars before climbing.
• Never use an A-frame ladder in a partially closed position or as a straight ladder leaned against a wall.
• Do not climb the rear cross-bracing unless the ladder is specifically designed for that purpose.

[3] [7] [9] Stable, level surface requirements:

• Set all four feet on a firm, level, stable, dry, and non-slippery surface.
• Do not place the ladder on boxes, barrels, pallets, debris, or other unstable bases to gain height.
• Keep the area around the ladder base clear, and protect the ladder from being bumped by people, vehicles, or doors.
• If the ladder must be near a doorway or traffic route, lock or guard the door and use barricades as needed.

[12] [4] [3] Three points of contact and climbing technique:

• Always face the ladder when climbing up or down.
• Maintain three points of contact at all times: two hands and one foot, or two feet and one hand.
• Keep both feet on the ladder and your body near the middle between the side rails.
• Use a tool belt, hand line, or hoist for tools and materials instead of carrying them in your hands while climbing.
• Allow only one person on the ladder at a time unless the ladder is specifically designed otherwise.

[2] [1] [5] Fall prevention and safe working position:

• Never stand on the top step, top cap, or pail shelf of an A-frame ladder.
• Keep your belt buckle or waist centered between the side rails; do not lean, pull, or overreach.
• Reposition the ladder instead of stretching sideways or working too far from the ladder.
• Do not move, shift, hop, or walk the ladder while anyone is on it.
• Consider a scaffold or lift instead of a ladder if the task requires extended reach, heavy materials, or both hands for prolonged work.

[2] [12] [2] Load rating and ladder selection:

• Choose the correct ladder type and material for the task; use fiberglass rather than metal if there is any chance of electrical contact.
• Do not exceed the ladder's duty rating; include your body weight plus tools, materials, and equipment.
• Use the ladder only for its intended purpose and follow all manufacturer labels and instructions.

[1] [2] [6] OSHA and regulatory reminders:

• OSHA construction ladder requirements are found in 29 CFR 1926 Subpart X, including 29 CFR 1926.1053.
• Employers must train each worker to recognize ladder hazards and safe-use procedures.
• Common OSHA stepladder hazards include damaged ladders, slippery or unstable surfaces, unlocked spreaders, overloading, high-traffic placement, standing on the top step, and reaching outside the side rails.

[4] [2] [3] Practical slip, trip, and fall prevention reminders:

• Wear slip-resistant footwear and keep shoes clean and dry.
• Keep ladder rungs, steps, and feet clean.
• Keep the area at the top and bottom of the ladder free of cords, tools, materials, and debris.
• Do not leave tools or materials on the ladder.
• Before climbing, check overhead power lines and nearby hazards.
• If you cannot keep your center of gravity within the rails or maintain three points of contact, stop and use a safer access method.

[8] [10] [4]