Ladder Safety Tips

Ladders are used for numerous tasks every day. There are 4 main rules for safe use of

ladders. 

They are:

1.  Pick the right ladder for the job you are going to do.

2.  Make sure the ladder is in good condition.

3.  Set up the ladder correctly.

4.  Work safely on the ladder.

Let's examine these rules one at a time.

Pick the right ladder for the job;

The ladder should be of the correct type and length. You will probably use an ordinary straight 

ladder for most purposes. An extension ladder may be required for high work. A step ladder is used 

when you need a free-standing ladder or one with a tool tray. Some situations may not require a 

ladder at all. Instead, you may need a work platform. Never use a metal ladder around any 

electrical installation.

Inspect your ladder:

Never use a damaged ladder. Make sure all parts of the ladder are in good working order, free from 

corrosion, rust, rot, cracks and other defects. Check the rungs, side rails, braces, hinges, ropes 

and pulleys. See that the rungs are free of slippery substances such as oil.

Set up your ladder:

With a straight ladder, walk it into position hand over hand. Make sure the base is solid. Tie the 

top if you can. A straight ladder should be placed against the wall at an angle so that the base of 

the ladder is one foot away from the wall for every four feet of height.

You can remember this formula as the "four up, one out" rule. So a 16 foot extension ladder should 

be 4 feet out from the wall at the base. A stepladder should be locked into a fully-open position 

before you attempt to use it. If the ground is uneven, utilize boards or other methods to ensure 

the ladder has even ground to stand on.

Working on your ladder:

When climbing or working on a ladder, maintain three-point contact. This means that two hands and 

one foot, or one hand and two feet should be in contact with the ladder

at all times. 

Here are helpful tips to remember;

-    Keep centered on the ladder. Here's a way to remember to do so - your belt buckle should 

remain between the two side rails at all times. Never lean away from the ladder because you can 

cause it to topple.

-    Do not carry tools or materials in your hands. Keep tools in a belt, or hoist objects up after 

you.

-    Do not stand on the top few rungs of any ladder.

-    Footwear should have clean soles made of a non-skid material. Leather is too slippery.

-    Never move a ladder while you are on it.

-    Move slowly and carefully on a ladder.

-    Do not work on a ladder if you are ill or overly tired.

-    Certain work situations may require the use of fall prevention equipment such as safety belts 

or harnesses. Be sure to use this equipment as directed and keep it in good condition.