Ladder Safety Best Practices

This section discusses safe work practices that should be used whenever you work with ladders. If you see anyone not complying with safe work practices, report this to your supervisor immediately. Unsafe practices can lead to injuries for both the climber and bystanders.

Maintain Three Points of Contact

Whenever you climb a ladder, you should adhere to the three-points-of-contact rule because it minimizes the chances of slipping and falling. The three-points-of-contact rule is simple: keep three of your four limbs in contact with the ladder cleats or side rails at all times. This may be two hands and one foot, or both feet and one hand. It is the safest way to go up or down a ladder. However, adhering to this rule means that you cannot carry any objects in your hands that may interfere with your grip on the ladder.

Always Face the Ladder

You should always face the ladder during ascent or descent. You are less likely to become unstable in this position. Also, center your body between the rails, and keep your hips square to the rungs.

Additional safe work practices when using ladders include the following:

• Read and follow the manufacturer's labels and instructions.
• Wear non-slip shoes, and make sure they are free of mud, oil, grease, or other slippery materials.
• Attach light, compact tools and materials to yourself using a work belt.
• Raise and lower heavy or awkward loads with a hand line or hoist.
• Never use the top step or top cap of a stepladder as a step.
• Never skip steps or slide down a ladder.
• Never use a ladder when under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or medication, or when you are ill.
• Use a ladder only for its intended purposes. Never use a ladder as a scaffold or platform.
• If you feel dizzy, sick, or nervous while on a ladder, do not try to climb down in a hurry. Instead, drape your arms around the rungs and rest your head against the ladder until you feel better. Then, climb down slowly and carefully.
• Do not leave tools or materials on top of a ladder. If they fall, you or bystanders could be hurt.
• Never straddle the front and back of a stepladder.

To learn more about Slips, Trips, & Falls visit our Construction Slips, Trips & Falls Online Training web page.