Falls from ladders are a major cause of workplace injuries; therefore, it is important to follow safety regulations and guidelines to prevent falls and injuries. Incidents involving ladders are usually caused by using the wrong ladder for the job, using defective ladders, improper ladder use, or inadequate worker training. [3] [3]

Before using a ladder, it is important to determine if a ladder is the correct device for the situation, considering the physical condition of the ground, the height of the work, the type of work, and any other hazards present. [10]

Key safety guidelines include:

• Select the right ladder for the task, considering the required strength, type, and length.
• Ensure the ladder's load rating is appropriate for the user, equipment, and task.
• Inspect ladders for defects before each use and after each use.
• Tag and remove defective ladders from service until they can be repaired or replaced.
• When handling heavy or long ladders, get help.
• Keep ladders away from power wires, and use a fibreglass ladder if electricity is a hazard.
• Tie off extensions or straight ladders at the top and secure the bottom to prevent slipping.
• Set up barricades and warning signs when using a ladder in a doorway or passageway.

[6] [6] [6] [6] [6] [6] [6] [6] When setting up a ladder:

• Set up the ladder at the correct angle using the 4-to-1 rule: For every 4 feet up, place the base 1 foot from the wall.
• Extend the ladder at least 3 feet (1 m) above the landing platform or support point.
• Place the ladder on a firm, level surface, using slip-resistant feet or securing the ladder.
• Rest both side rails on the top support and secure the ladder to prevent slipping.

[7] [7] [7] [7] When climbing:

• Clear the area around the base and top of the ladder.
• Maintain three-point contact (two hands and one foot, or two feet and one hand) at all times.
• Grasp the rungs, not the side rails.
• Wear protective footwear with slip-resistant soles and heels.
• Ensure only one person is on a single-width ladder.
• When working 10 feet (3 m) or more above the ground, use a safety harness tied to a proper anchor.

[8] [8] [8] [8] [8] [8] Avoid the following:

• Using a ladder in a horizontal position as a scaffold plank or runway.
• Carrying objects in your hands while on a ladder. Hoist materials or attach tools to a belt.
• Working from the top three rungs.
• Using items such as chairs, barrels, or boxes as makeshift ladders.
• Using a portable ladder when other safer equipment is available.

[6] [6] [6] [6] [6] Specific to extension ladders:

• Raise and lower ladders from the ground.
• Ensure that locking ladder hooks are secure before climbing.
• Erect ladders so that a minimum of 3 ft (1 m) extends above a landing platform and tie the top at support points.
• Brace or tie off the ladder near the base, using a stake in the ground if necessary.
• Maintain the minimum overlap of sections as shown on the ladder label.
• Avoid using ladders near power lines, keeping ladders and tools at least 10 feet away.
• Do not set up or take a ladder down when it is extended.
• Do not climb higher than the fourth rung from the top.
• Avoid using ladders on slippery surfaces without securing the feet.

[1] [1] [1] [1] [1] [2] [2] [2] Specific to step ladders:

• Check the load rating, ensuring it covers the person's weight and tools.
• Use a stepladder that is about 3 feet (1 m) shorter than the highest point you need to reach.
• Ensure the ladder is free of grease, oil, or other slippery substances.
• Fully open and lock the spreaders and shelf.
• Ensure all ladder feet are on a firm, level, and non-slippery surface.
• Face the stepladder when climbing.
• Keep your body centered between the side rails.
• Avoid standing on the top or pail shelf.
• Do not overload the ladder; stepladders are meant for one person.

[9] [9] [9] [9] [9] [4] [4] [5] [5] When climbing up or down, always:

• Face the stepladder.
• Keep your body centered between side rails.
• Maintain three-point contact.
• Keep a firm grip.
• Make sure that footwear is in good condition.
• Clean your footwear by removing mud, water, snow, ice or grease.
• Place feet firmly on each rung.

[10] [10] [10] [10] [10] [10] [11] When climbing up or down, never:

• Hurry up or slide down a ladder.
• Jump from a ladder.
• Carry tools or materials in your hand while climbing.
• Wear loose clothing, jewellery, or anything else that may catch while climbing.

[11] [11] [11] [12] Other tips include:

• If working near electricity, do not use an aluminum ladder.
• Set up warning signs, barricades, lock the door, etc., as necessary to prevent other employees from bumping into the ladder.
• Work from the center of the ladder. If you cannot reach, climb down and move the ladder.
• Do not shift or walk a stepladder when standing on it.
• Do not use tools that require a lot of leverage.
• Do not stand on or above the top two rungs or steps of the ladder.
• Do not allow another person to work below the ladder.
• Do not use a ladder during high winds or other extreme weather.
• Make sure all workers who may climb a ladder are properly trained.

[12] [12] [12] [12] [12] [12] [12] [12] [12]