To prevent falls and injuries when using ladders in the workplace, it's crucial to follow safety regulations and guidelines. These include proper ladder selection, inspection, setup, and usage.

Before using a ladder, conduct a risk assessment to determine if fall protection equipment is necessary. [1]

Key safety measures include:

• Ladder Selection: Choose the right type and size of ladder for the task, ensuring it can handle the weight of the user and tools.
• Ladder Inspection: Before each use, inspect the ladder for any defects such as loose rungs, damaged side rails, or worn safety feet. Remove any defective ladder from service.
• Ladder Setup: Place the ladder on a stable, level surface, and ensure it is properly secured to prevent slipping or movement.
• Ladder Usage: Maintain three points of contact while climbing, avoid overreaching, and never stand on the top few rungs of a ladder.

Additionally, workers should receive proper training on ladder safety, including how to recognize hazards and use ladders correctly. [2]