Falls from ladders are a major source of workplace injuries, so it's important to follow safety regulations and conduct regular inspections. Incidents are often due to using the wrong ladder, defective equipment, or improper use and lack of training. [8] [8]

Key inspection points for all ladders:

• Missing or loose steps or rungs
• Damaged or worn non-slip feet
• Loose nails, screws, bolts, or nuts
• Worn, loose, or faulty spreaders, locks and other metal parts in poor repair
• Rot, decay, or warped rails in wooden ladders
• Cracks and exposed fiberglass in fiberglass ladders
• Cracked, split, worn, or broken rails, braces, steps, or rungs
• Sharp edges or splintered surfaces
• Corrosion, rust, or excessive wear
• Twisted or distorted rails
• Damage or wear on spreaders, locking devices, hinges or ropes
• Missing identification labels

[5] [7] Additional stepladder inspection points:

• Wobble
• Loose or bent hinges and hinge spreaders
• Broken stop on a hinge spreader
• Loose pail shelf

[7] Additional extension ladder inspection points:

• Loose, broken, or missing extension locks
• Defective locks that do not set properly when the ladder is extended
• Insufficient lubrication of working parts
• Defective cords, chains, and ropes
• Missing or defective pads or sleeves

[7] General ladder safety guidelines:

• Use the right ladder for the job, considering strength, type and length.
• Read and follow all labels and markings.
• Ensure the load rating is appropriate.
• Inspect ladders before and after each use and tag any defects.
• Get help handling heavy ladders.
• Keep ladders away from power lines, using fiberglass ladders when electricity is a hazard.
• Tie off extensions or straight ladders at the top and secure the bottom.
• Set up barricades and warning signs in doorways or passageways.
• Clean boot soles before climbing and avoid climbing with wet soles.
• Face the ladder when climbing, keeping your body centered.
• Maintain three-point contact.
• Don't use ladders horizontally or carry objects while climbing.

[11] [11] Regular ladder inspections are essential. Inspect new ladders upon receipt and all ladders before each use, after any drops or falls, and before storing them. [5]

After inspection:

• Tag and remove defective ladders from service.
• Destroy ladders that cannot be safely repaired.
• Protect wooden ladders with a clear sealer or wood preservative.
• Replace worn or frayed ropes on extension ladders.
• Lubricate pulleys on extension ladders regularly.
• Clean fiberglass ladders every three months with a clear lacquer or paste wax.

[6] [6] [7] Things to avoid after inspecting ladders:

• Do not make temporary or makeshift repairs.
• Do not try to straighten or use bent or bowed ladders.

[6] When setting up an extension ladder:

• Place ladders on a firm, level surface and ensure secure footing.
• Erect ladders so the upper section rests on the bottom section.
• Position ladder feet so the horizontal distance between the feet and top support is 1/4 of the working length, creating a 75-degree angle.
• Raise and lower ladders from the ground and ensure locking hooks are secure before climbing.
• For access to elevated surfaces, extend the ladder at least 3 feet (1 m) above the landing platform and tie the top at support points.
• Brace or tie off the ladder near the base, using a stake if necessary.
• Set up barricades and warning signs when using a ladder in a doorway or passageway.

[1] [2] When using a stepladder:

• Conduct a risk assessment when working at heights.
• Check the load rating.
• Use a ladder about 3 feet (1 m) shorter than the highest point you need to reach.
• Open spreaders and shelf fully and lock the braces.
• Ensure all feet are on a firm, level, non-slippery surface.
• Place the ladder at right angles to the work.
• Keep the ladder close to the work.
• Lift and carry the ladder when moving it.
• Face the ladder when climbing.
• Keep your body centered between the side rails.
• Work at an appropriate height, generally below the top cap.
• Maintain a firm grip and keep both feet on the ladder.

[4] [3] When climbing a fixed ladder:

• Inspect before each use and periodically (at least annually).
• Report any defects promptly and keep a record of inspections.
• Use appropriate safety devices.
• Maintain three-point contact.
• Face the ladder and grip rungs firmly.
• Place feet firmly on each rung.
• Wear footwear with heels and clean muddy or slippery soles.
• Raise or lower tools using a hand-line.

[12] [13] When climbing portable ladders:

• Clear the area around the base and top of the ladder.
• Wear a safety harness when working 10 ft (3 m) or more above the ground or when working with both hands.
• Ensure only one person is on a single-width ladder.
• Maintain three-point contact.
• Grasp the rungs, not the side rails.
• Wear protective footwear with slip-resistant soles and heels.
• Ensure electrical equipment is in good condition and grounded.
• Rest frequently to avoid fatigue.
• Drape your arms over a rung and rest your head against another rung or side rail if you become dizzy.

[14] When setting up a portable ladder:

• Set up the ladder at the required angle, using the 4-to-1 Rule.
• Extend the ladder at least 3 ft (1 m) above the landing platform or support point.
• Place the ladder on a firm, level footing and use slip-resistant feet or secure blocking.
• Rest both side rails on the top support and secure the ladder to prevent slipping.

[16] To safely secure portable ladders:

• Secure and stabilize the ladder from the bottom up.
• Set up the ladder on a firm, level, and stable surface.
• Secure both the base and top of the ladder to prevent movement.
• Brace or tie off the ladder near the base, using a stake if there is no structure to tie to.
• Use ladders equipped with non-slip feet.
• Remove debris and clutter around the base of the ladder.
• Rest the top of the ladder against a solid surface that can withstand the load.
• Use wall grips on the risers to prevent side slipping.
• Attach a ladder stay across the back of the ladder where a surface cannot stand the load.
• Guard or fence off the area around a ladder in an accessible area.

[15] When climbing up or down a ladder:

• Place feet firmly on each rung.
• Wear footwear with heels.
• Avoid climbing too high.
• Raise or lower tools and materials using a hoist, hand-line, bucket, or other device.
• Allow only one person on a ladder at a time.
• Have a second person hold the bottom of a long ladder.
• Use appropriate safety devices.
• Do not hurry, jump, or carry tools while climbing.

[17] When storing ladders:

• Return ladders to the storage area after use.
• Store ladders where they are protected from the weather and where they will not be unintentionally contacted by people or machinery.
• Support ladders horizontally on racks or mount on walls, every 6 ft (2 m).
• Keep ladders clean and free of foreign materials.
• Ensure storage areas are easy to reach.
• Keep wooden ladders in a well-ventilated location, away from dampness and excessive heat.
• Grasp ladders near the center when carrying them.
• Use caution when carrying ladders through passageways or doorways.
• Use a partner to help carry long or heavy ladders.
• Tag and remove defective ladders for repair or replacement.

[10] [9]