Ladders feel like “quick work,” but that’s exactly why falls from ladders are a leading cause of workplace fatalities. Most of these accidents occur because the victims violate the basic rules of ladder safety, and as we know, small shortcuts can add up fast.
With March being National Ladder Safety Month, this article explains the 5 key ladder safety rules you need to follow to prevent workplace injuries from occurring.
What are the Standard Ladder Safety Rules?
Here are the five basic rules for ladder safety:
Rule 1. Pick the Right Ladder for the Job
It is important to choose a ladder that has the proper capacity for the job at hand. With this in mind, ensure that you use:
a) The right type:
- Step ladder: self-supporting, level surfaces.
- Extension ladder: access/leaning work, not self-supporting.
- Platform ladder: best for longer tasks (more stable, less fatigue).
b) The right height:
- Don’t “make it work” by standing on the top step/top rung unless it’s designed for that.
- For extension/straight ladders used for access, the ladder should extend about 3 feet above the landing (or be secured at the top).
c) The right duty rating:
- Your weight + tools + materials must be within the ladder’s load rating.
Rule 2. Inspect Your Ladders Before Use Every Time (Takes 60 Seconds)
Any ladder can develop a problem that can make it unsafe for use. Before you climb, check:
- Rungs/steps are solid and clean (no grease, mud, wet paint).
- Feet are intact and not worn smooth.
- Rails aren’t cracked or bent.
- Spreaders/locks engage fully.
- Labels are readable.
If it’s damaged: tag it out and remove it from use until repaired or replaced.
3. Set Up the Ladder Correctly (This is Where Most Incidents Occur)
No matter how safe the ladder is, if it is not set up with enough care, your fall risk is always high. Therefore, for:
a) Stable surfaces:
- Set ladders on firm, level ground. If you can’t get it level, you need another setup (stabilizer, leveling device, or a different access method).
b) Extension/straight ladders:
- Base 1 foot out for every 4 feet up (about a 75° angle).
Secure it if it can move;
- If it’s near doors, walkways, traffic, or equipment paths: barricade the area or secure the ladder so it can’t be displaced.
Rule 4. Climb, Work, and Descend Ladders with Caution
When climbing up or down the ladder, ensure:
a) Three points of contact:
- Keep two hands and one foot (or two feet and one hand) on the ladder while climbing.
b) Stay between the rails:
- Face the ladder, keep your body centered, and don’t overreach.
- If your belt buckle passes the side rail, climb down and reposition.
c) Keep your hands free:
- Use a tool belt, holster, or hand line. Don’t carry tools in your hands while climbing.
Never;
- Move a ladder while someone is on it.
- Use a ladder as a bridge, ramp, or scaffold plank.
- Stand on boxes, buckets, or pallets to “get a little more height.”
Rule 5. Don’t Ignore Electrical Hazards
Before you lift or set up a ladder:
- Look for overhead power lines.
- Use nonconductive ladders where electrical contact is possible.
- Keep your distance from energized equipment and overhead lines. Ensure you follow your company’s minimum approach rules.
Ladder Safety Tips: A Quick Checklist
Before use;
- Correct ladder type/height/duty rating.
- Inspected: no defects, locks/spreaders work.
- Clean and dry rungs/feet.
- Areas checked: power lines, doors, traffic.
During Setup;
- Stable/level base (secured if needed).
- Correct angle (4:1) for extension/straight ladders.
- Extension/straight ladder extends 3 ft above landing (or secured).
- Barricade/secure if it can be displaced.
Climbing and Descending;
- 3-point contact.
- Face ladder; stay between rails.
- No tools in hand (use belt/hand line).
- No moving/shifting ladder while occupied.
For a detailed understanding of compliance with safety regulations from organizations such as the American Ladder Institute, read our introduction to ladder safety article.
Ensure Ladder Safety with Bizhaven
Ladders are useful tools that facilitate a variety of tasks and projects in the workplace. Ensuring that your ladder is safe and that you are properly climbing and moving on it can help prevent workplace injuries.
If you need ladder safety training awareness for your team, contact our experts.
