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

Key safety reminders for A-frame step ladders are to inspect the ladder before each use, set it up fully open on a firm, level, non-slippery surface, stay within the ladder’s rated load, maintain three points of contact while climbing, and never stand on the top step or top cap. OSHA also expects employers to train workers to recognize ladder hazards and follow ladder requirements in 29 CFR 1926 Subpart X. [1] [2]

Pre-use inspection should be done every time before climbing.

• Check for bent, broken, cracked, split, or missing steps, rungs, side rails, braces, bolts, rivets, feet, and other hardware.
• Make sure slip-resistant feet are intact and the ladder is free of grease, oil, mud, wet paint, or other slippery material.
• Verify movable parts operate properly and that spreaders/locking devices work correctly.
• Tag and remove defective ladders from service; do not use a damaged ladder.

[1] [8] [6] Proper setup on stable, level surfaces is essential for preventing slips, tip-overs, and collapse.

• Set all four feet on a firm, level, solid, dry, and non-slippery surface.
• Fully open the stepladder and lock the spreaders before use.
• Do not place the ladder on boxes, barrels, or other unstable bases to gain height.
• Do not use a stepladder in a closed or partially closed position, and do not use it as a straight ladder.
• Keep the ladder away from doors, walkways, and vehicle or pedestrian traffic, or barricade/guard the area if needed.

[8] [2] [7] Maintain three points of contact and safe climbing posture at all times.

• Climb and descend facing the ladder.
• Keep either two hands and one foot, or two feet and one hand, in contact with the ladder.
• Keep your body centered between the side rails; follow the belt-buckle rule and do not overreach.
• Use a tool belt, rope, or hoist for tools instead of carrying items in your hands while climbing.
• Allow only one person on the ladder at a time.

[2] [3] [10] Load rating compliance and fall prevention are critical.

• Use the right ladder for the job and verify the duty rating before use.
• Do not exceed the ladder’s maximum load; include your body weight plus tools, materials, and equipment.
• Never stand on the top step, top cap, or pail shelf of a stepladder.
• Do not overreach, lean, pull, or make sudden movements; climb down and reposition the ladder instead.
• Do not move, shift, hop, or walk the ladder while anyone is on it.

[1] [5] [8] Hazard awareness should be part of every ladder task.

• Look for overhead power lines and energized equipment before handling or placing the ladder.
• Use a nonconductive fiberglass ladder if there is any chance of electrical contact; avoid metal ladders near electricity.
• Check the area above and below the ladder for obstructions, cords, debris, and other trip or struck-by hazards.
• Keep access areas clear and protect the ladder from being bumped by doors, pedestrians, or vehicles.
• If the task requires excessive reaching, side loading, long duration work, or work near edges, use a safer alternative such as scaffolding or a lift.

[2] [4] [3] For OSHA compliance, employers should ensure workers are trained, the correct ladder is selected, ladders are inspected before use, defective ladders are removed from service, stepladders are fully opened with spreaders locked, ladders are used only on stable level surfaces, rated loads are not exceeded, and workers do not stand on the top step/cap or use stepladders for unintended purposes. OSHA construction ladder requirements are found in 29 CFR 1926 Subpart X, especially 29 CFR 1926.1053 for ladders. [2] [9] [3]