Falls from ladders are a leading cause of injuries in construction, often resulting in serious harm or fatalities. Unsafe ladder practices—such as using unsecured ladders, positioning them improperly, or neglecting inspections—contribute to these incidents. Learning safe ladder practices is essential for preventing injuries and ensuring workplace safety.

General Ladder Setup Tips

• Transport with Care: Carry ladders safely, and seek help when dealing with heavy or long ladders.
• Solid Placement: Always set up ladders on a stable, level surface that is free from debris or hazards.
• Avoid Movable Surfaces: Do not place ladders on slippery or movable surfaces that could cause instability.
• High-Traffic Areas: If a ladder must be placed in a busy area, use barriers or signage to reduce the risk of collisions.
• Check Overhead Hazards: Before setting up a ladder, inspect the area for electrical wires or other overhead dangers.

Climbing Safely

• Always maintain three points of contact when climbing (two hands and one foot, or two feet and one hand).
• Do not overreach or lean too far to the sides, as this can destabilize the ladder.
• Use the correct ladder for the task and ensure it is the appropriate height.