Ladder Set-up

If a ladder is incorrectly set up, it puts workers and bystanders at risk of serious injury. It is important that workers are trained in the proper set-up of the specific types of ladders they may be required to use.

General Set-up Requirements

• Always inspect the ladder before setting it up.
• Move the ladder near the work area. Get help moving the ladder if it is too difficult to handle alone.
• Place the ladder on a secure, level surface or secure it in place.
• Use barriers or signs to protect the base of the ladder if there is a possibility that a vehicle or pedestrian could strike the ladder.
• Never try to make a ladder reach farther by setting it on boxes, barrels, bricks, blocks, or other unstable surfaces.
• Do not allow ladders to lean sideways. Level them before use.
• Do not use a ladder on ice or snow unless it is absolutely necessary. If a ladder must be used on icy or snowy surfaces, use spikes on the ladder feet and be sure they are gripping firmly before climbing.
• Do not set up a ladder in high wind, especially lightweight metal or fiberglass ladders.
• Brace the foot of the ladder with stakes or use safety shoes on ladder feet if there is any danger of slipping.
• Do not set up a ladder in front of a door unless the door is locked or someone is guarding the door.

Self-Supporting Ladder Set-up Requirements

• Place the base of the ladder on a firm and level surface. Ensure that all four feet are on the ground. Use leg levelers on uneven surfaces.
• Open and lock the spreader bars.

Non-Self-Supporting Ladder Set-up Requirements

• Place the base of the ladder on a firm and level surface. Make sure that both feet are on the ground. Use leg levelers on uneven surfaces.
• Use the 4:1 rule to achieve the required angle. For every 4 feet up, place the base of the ladder 1 foot from the wall or support surface that it rests against. To check that the ladder is set up at a 4:1 angle, stand in front of the ladder with your toes at the ladder's base and extend your arms straight out. Your fingertips should touch the rung nearest to your shoulder level if the ladder is set up at a proper 4:1 angle.
• Place the ladder against a solid, stable surface. Ensure that both side rails are equally supported.
• If you will be getting off the ladder onto an access point, the ladder's rails must extend at least 3 feet above the access landing, and you must tie off or otherwise secure your ladder's side rails at the top.
• If using an extension ladder, make sure that the rung locks are engaged, and make sure the minimum required overlap between sections is maintained.

To learn more about Ladder & Stairway Safety visit our Ladder & Stairway Safety Online Training web page.