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, non-slippery surface, maintain three points of contact while climbing, keep your body centered between the side rails, and never stand on the top step or top cap. Remove damaged ladders from service immediately and do not use a stepladder in a closed or partially closed position or for any purpose other than its design. [1] [4] [6]

• Inspect before each use for cracks, bent or broken steps, loose or missing bolts/rivets, damaged side rails, worn or missing slip-resistant feet, corrosion, and any other defective parts.
• Tag or remove defective ladders from service; do not try to use a damaged ladder.
• Keep rungs, steps, and feet clean and free of grease, oil, mud, paint, or other slippery substances.
• Verify the ladder's duty rating is adequate for the combined weight of the user, tools, and materials.
• Choose a nonconductive fiberglass ladder if there is any chance of electrical contact, and keep ladders away from overhead power lines and energized equipment.

[1] [3] [7]

• Set the ladder only on firm, level, dry, stable footing. Do not place it on boxes, barrels, or other unstable bases to gain height.
• Fully open the A-frame and ensure the spreader/locking device is fully engaged before climbing.
• Keep the area around the ladder base clear of debris and obstructions.
• Keep the ladder away from doors, walkways, and vehicle or pedestrian traffic, or barricade/secure the area if that cannot be avoided.
• Never move, shift, or adjust the ladder while someone is on it.
• Allow only one person on the ladder at a time.

[2] [4] [9]

• Maintain three points of contact when ascending or descending: two hands and one foot, or two feet and one hand.
• Always face the ladder when climbing.
• Keep your belt buckle/body centered between the side rails; do not lean, pull, or overreach.
• Keep the ladder close to the work and climb down to reposition it instead of stretching sideways.
• Use a tool belt or hoist for tools and materials; do not carry items in your hands if they could affect your grip or balance.
• Keep both feet on the ladder and do not stand on the top step, top cap, or top two steps/rungs of a stepladder.

[2] [7] [10] For fall prevention, use a stepladder only when the task can be done safely from a ladder; if the work requires extended reach, heavy materials, long duration, or side-loading, use a scaffold or lift instead. Prevent falls by selecting the correct ladder, training workers, keeping the ladder stable and secured from traffic, avoiding electrical hazards, and stopping work in unsafe conditions such as slippery footing or bad weather outdoors. [2] [4] [10]

OSHA-related requirements and guidance reflected in the sources include training workers to recognize ladder hazards, following manufacturer instructions and ladder labels, using ladders only for their intended purpose, keeping ladders on stable and level surfaces, not exceeding the maximum load rating, preventing displacement in traffic areas, and complying with OSHA ladder rules in 29 CFR 1926 Subpart X, including 29 CFR 1926.1053 for ladder safety requirements. [4] [2] [5]

• Use the right A-frame ladder for the task and environment; fiberglass is preferred near electrical hazards.
• Inspect it before use and remove it from service if defective.
• Set it fully open with spreaders locked.
• Place all four feet on a firm, level, non-slippery surface.
• Keep the area clear and protect the ladder from doors and traffic.
• Climb facing the ladder with three points of contact.
• Keep centered between the rails and reposition instead of overreaching.
• Stay off the top step/top cap and keep both feet on the ladder.
• Do not overload the ladder; include body weight, tools, and materials in the calculation.
• Only one person on the ladder at a time, and never move it while occupied.

[1] [2] [8]