March is National Ladder Safety Month, making it the perfect time to highlight one of the most overlooked safety hazards in the workplace: ladders.
Ladders seem simple enough—you climb up, do the job, climb down. But every year, thousands of workers suffer serious injuries from ladder-related accidents, many of which could have been prevented with proper precautions.
Here are 10 common ladder safety mistakes and how to avoid them. If you recognize any of these, now is the time to correct them before they lead to an accident.
1. Using a Ladder When It’s Not the Best Option
Ladders are not always the safest tool for the job. If you need to carry heavy materials, work for extended periods, or require both hands, a scissor lift or scaffolding might be a better option. Before setting up a ladder, evaluate whether it is truly the safest choice for the task.
2. Choosing the Wrong Ladder
Using a ladder that is too short can force workers to climb higher than is safe. A ladder that is too tall may be unstable in the workspace. Additionally, when working near power lines, never use an aluminum ladder—fiberglass or wooden ladders are safer alternatives. Selecting the right ladder for the job can be the difference between a safe work environment and a preventable injury.
3. Skipping the Inspection
Before using a ladder, always check for cracks, broken rungs, missing feet, or other signs of damage. A damaged ladder is a serious hazard. If you find any issues, mark the ladder as “Do Not Use” and remove it from service. Also, ensure the ladder is free of slippery substances such as grease, mud, or ice.
4. Setting Up the Ladder at the Wrong Angle
A ladder that is too steep or too shallow can be unstable. Follow the 4-to-1 rule—for every 4 feet of ladder height, place the base 1 foot away from the wall. This positioning helps maintain a stable, 75-degree angle and prevents the ladder from sliding out from under you.
5. Ignoring the Three-Point Contact Rule
To maintain stability, always keep three points of contact with the ladder—either two hands and one foot, or two feet and one hand. Climbing while holding tools or materials in both hands can increase the risk of losing balance. Instead, use a tool belt, hoist, or coworker assistance to keep hands free while climbing.
6. Carrying Items While Climbing
Climbing a ladder while carrying tools, materials, or equipment can shift your balance and cause a fall. Use a tool belt, a hoist, or have a coworker pass materials to you instead. Keeping hands free ensures a firm grip on the ladder and reduces the risk of slipping.
7. Overreaching
Reaching too far to the side can cause a ladder to tip over. Follow the belt buckle rule—keep your belt buckle between the ladder’s side rails. If an object is out of reach, climb down and reposition the ladder rather than stretching beyond the safe zone.
8. Not Extending the Ladder Properly
When using a ladder to access an upper level, it must extend at least 3 feet past the landing to provide a safe handhold. If this is not possible, the ladder should be securely tied off at the top, and a grasping device should be available for stability.
9. Standing on the Top Step or Rung
Standing on the top step of a stepladder or the top three rungs of a straight or extension ladder significantly increases the risk of a fall. OSHA regulations prohibit using these areas as standing points. Always maintain proper footing and avoid climbing too high.
10. Using a Ladder for the Wrong Purpose
Ladders are designed for climbing, not as makeshift scaffolds, workbenches, or bridges. Using a ladder for an unintended purpose can lead to structural failure or instability. Always follow manufacturer guidelines to ensure safe use.
Ladder Safety Starts With You
Ladders are valuable tools, but they must be used correctly. A small mistake can lead to serious injuries, but by following these 10 ladder safety tips, you can prevent accidents and create a safer work environment.
Have you seen ladder safety violations in the workplace? Let us know in the comments.
