Ladder safety
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Published by SALUSLadder Safety Guidelines and Fall Protection Requirements =========================================================
This document outlines the safety guidelines and fall protection requirements for using ladders, including inspection procedures and safe climbing practices, to prevent accidents and injuries. It covers various types of ladders and emphasizes the importance of proper selection, inspection, setup, and usage to ensure worker safety.
General Ladder Safety
Ladder Selection and Use
Before using a ladder, it is crucial to determine if it is the correct device for the situation, considering the physical condition of the ground and the area being reached, the height of the work, the type of work being done, and any other hazards present. The assessment should include determining which type of ladder will be best suited for the task. Always inspect the ladder before use and set it up correctly. Safety labels and manufacturer instructions provide specific information on the safe use of that particular ladder. [4] [4]
Portable ladders must be marked for the grade of material used and the intended use. Manufactured portable ladders should be used according to the manufacturer's instructions. It is important to select a ladder designed for the specific task, considering its strength, type, length, and relevant safety standards approval. The load rating must be appropriate for the user, equipment, and task. [2] [13] [8] [8]
Restrictions on Use
Workers should not work from the top two rungs of a portable single or extension ladder or the top two steps of a stepladder, unless otherwise permitted by the manufacturer. Ladders should not be used as scaffold components or horizontal walkways, ramps, or work platform supports, except when part of a pre-manufactured or engineered system. [1] [1]
Ladder Positioning and Stability
Portable ladders must be placed on a firm and level surface. For non-self-supporting ladders, position the ladder so that it leans against the vertical plane of support at an approximate angle of 75° when measured from the horizontal plane of support. If the ladder provides access to an upper landing, it must project approximately 1 meter (3 feet) above the upper landing and be sufficiently secured to ensure stability during access or egress. [2] [2]
The ladder should be of sufficient length to project approximately one metre above the level of the upper landing to which it provides access, except where there is limited clearance and the ladder is adequately secured. The ladder must be secured against movement and placed on a stable base. The base of an inclined portable ladder should be no further from the base of the wall or structure than 1/4 of the distance between the base of the ladder and the place where the ladder contacts the wall. [1] [15] [15]
Inspection Procedures
Ladders must be inspected before use on each shift and after any modification. Any condition that might endanger workers must be remedied before the equipment is used. New ladders should be inspected promptly upon receipt. Ladders should also be inspected before storing to ensure they are in good condition or need repair, replacement, or removal from the site. [2] [7] [7]
Inspection Checklist
When inspecting any ladder, check for the following:
[7] [7] [7] [7] [7] [11] [11] [11] [11] [11] [11] [11] [11] For stepladders, also check for wobble, loose or bent hinges and hinge spreaders, broken stops on hinge spreaders, and loose pail shelves. For extension ladders, inspect for loose, broken, or missing extension locks, defective locks that do not set properly when the ladder is extended, sufficient lubrication of working parts, defective cords, chains, and ropes, and missing or defective pads or sleeves. [11] [11] [11] [11] [11] [11] [11] [11] [11]
Post-Inspection Actions
Tag any defective ladders and take them out of service. Clean fiberglass ladders every three months, spraying lightly with a clear lacquer or paste wax. Protect wooden ladders with a clear sealer or wood preservative. Replace worn or frayed ropes on extension ladders and lubricate pulleys regularly. Destroy ladders that cannot be repaired safely in a way that makes them useless. [11] [11] [12] [12] [12] [12]
Do not make temporary or makeshift repairs, and do not try to straighten or use bent or bowed ladders. [12] [12]
Safe Climbing Practices
Three-Point Contact
Maintain three points of contact when using a ladder, keeping two hands and one foot, or two feet and one hand, on the ladder at all times. Keep your body centered between the side rails. [1] [4] [8]
Climbing Procedures
Face the ladder when climbing up or down. Place feet firmly on each rung. Wearing footwear with heels can help prevent the foot from slipping forward. Avoid hurrying up or sliding down a ladder, and never jump from a ladder. Check footing before descending. Clean muddy or slippery boot soles before mounting a ladder and avoid climbing with wet soles. Ensure that footwear is in good condition. [4] [3] [3] [3] [3] [5] [5]
Material Handling
Do not carry tools or materials in your hand while climbing. Rise or lower tools and materials using a hoist, hand-line, bucket, or other device. [3] [8]
Other Safe Practices
In most cases, only allow one person on a ladder at a time. Have a second person hold the bottom of a long ladder, especially when tying or untying an extension ladder. Set up barricades and warning signs when using a ladder in a doorway or passageway to prevent other employees from bumping into the ladder. Work from the center of the ladder; if you cannot reach, climb down and move the ladder. Do not "shift" or "walk" a stepladder when standing on it. [3] [3] [6] [10] [10]
Avoid wearing loose clothing, jewelry, or anything else that may catch while climbing. Do not use tools that require a lot of leverage, as this may cause imbalance or falls. Do not allow another person to work below the ladder, and avoid using a ladder during high winds or other extreme weather. Ensure all workers who may climb a ladder are properly trained. [10] [10] [10] [10] [10]
Fall Protection Requirements
Fall Protection Systems
When working 3 metres (10 feet) or more above ground, a fall protection program may be necessary. This may include using a safety belt or harness with the lanyard tied appropriately to the structure. Ensure that you follow working at heights training that includes how to use fall protection devices safely. [6]
A worker may only work from a portable ladder without fall protection where the work is a light-duty task of short duration at each location, the worker's center of gravity is maintained between the ladder side rails, and the ladder is not positioned near an edge or floor opening that would significantly increase the potential fall distance. [1]
In Alberta, a worker working from a portable ladder from which the worker may fall 3 meters or more must use a personal fall arrest system. This does not apply while the worker is moving up or down the portable ladder. If it is not reasonably practical to use a personal fall arrest system, a worker may work from a portable ladder without fall protection if the work is a light duty task of short duration at each location, the worker's center of balance is at the center of the ladder at all times even with an arm extended beyond the side rails of the ladder, and the worker maintains 3-point contact whenever the worker extends an arm beyond a side rail. [15] [15] [15]
Fixed Ladders
Fixed Ladder Requirements
For fixed ladders, the rungs must be uniformly spaced with centers that are not less than 250 mm and not more than 300 mm apart. A clearance of not less than 150 mm must be maintained between the rungs and the structure. Fixed ladders must be securely held in place at the top and bottom and at intermediate points to prevent sway. The side rails must extend not less than 1 m above a platform, roof, or other landing. Ladder openings in platforms, roofs, or other landings should not exceed 750 mm by 750 mm. [16]
If a fixed ladder is more than 6 m high, it must be equipped with platforms at intervals of not more than 6 m and ladder cages, or a personal fall arresting system. [16]
Fixed Ladder Inspection
Fixed ladders should be inspected before each use and periodically, at least annually. Report any defects promptly and keep a record of every inspection. Check for loose, worn, and damaged rungs or side rails, damaged or corroded cages, corroded guards, bolts, and rivet heads, damaged or corroded handrails and brackets on platforms, broken or loose anchorages, weakened or damaged rungs on brick or concrete slabs, defects in climbing devices, slippery surfaces from oil and ice, and clutter obstructing the base of the ladder or platform. [9] [9] [9] [9] [9] [9] [9] [9] [9] [9] [9] [9] [9]
Safe Climbing Practices for Fixed Ladders
When climbing a fixed ladder, wait until the other person has exited before ascending or descending. Use appropriate safety devices such as restraint belts, traveling fixtures, vertical lifelines, or safety rails. Maintain three-point contact, keeping two hands and one foot, or two feet and one hand, on the ladder at all times. Face the ladder and use both hands to grip the rungs firmly. Place feet firmly on each rung. Wear footwear with heels and ensure that footwear is in good condition. Clean muddy or slippery boot soles before mounting the ladder. Rise or lower tools and materials using a hand-line. [5] [5] [5] [5] [5] [5] [5] [5]
Prohibitions
Ladders should not be used in a horizontal position as a scaffold plank or runway. Do not use items such as a chair, barrel, or box as a makeshift ladder. Avoid using a portable ladder when other types of equipment and safe means of access are available; replace a ladder with a fixed stairway or scaffold where possible. [8] [8] [8]
Wooden Ladder Specifics
Job-Built Ladder Construction
Where a portable wooden ladder is constructed at the job site, the side rails must be of specific dimensions depending on the length of the ladder. The side rails shall not be notched, dapped, tapered, or spliced, and the distance between the inner faces of the side rails must be within a specified range. Cleats must also meet dimensional requirements and be properly spaced and nailed to the side rails. The spaces on the side rails between the cleats should be filled with close-fitting and well-secured filler pieces of the same thickness as the cleats. Double cleat ladders must have three rails evenly spaced and meet width and cleat extension requirements. [13]
Protective Coatings
A protective coating applied to a wooden ladder, other than a small amount for identification purposes, must be transparent to allow defects to be discovered by inspection. Wooden ladders or stepladders should not be painted with a substance other than a transparent coating. [13] [14]
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Sources used for this answer
[1] Ladders - Fixed Access
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# Ladders - Fixed Access (cont.) ## What should you check for when inspecting access ladders? (cont.) the proper functioning of any safety gates ## What should you do when climbing a fixed ladder? - Wait until the other person has exited before ascending or descending. - Use the appropriate safety devices (e.g., restraint belt, traveling fixture, vertical lifelines, safety rail). - Maintain three-point contact by keeping two hands and one foot, or two feet and one hand on a ladder always. - Face ladder and use both hands to grip the rungs firmly. - Place feet firmly on each rung. - Wear footwear with heels. Ensure that footwear is in good condition. - Clean muddy or slippery boot soles before mounting a ladder. - Rise or lower tools and materials using a hand-line. Ladders - Fixed Access CCOHS
[2] Ladders - Climbing Up and Down Safely
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CCOHS CCHST Ladders Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety Centre canadien d'hygiène et de sécurité au travail # Ladders - Climbing Up and Down Safely ## On this page What should you determine before using a ladder? What should you do when climbing up or down a ladder? What should you not do when climbing up or down a ladder? What are other tips when working on or near ladders? ## What should you determine before using a ladder? Determine if a ladder is the correct device to use for the situation. Your assessment will include the physical condition of both the ground and the area being reached, the height of the work, the type of work being done, and if other hazards are present. Determine which type of ladder will be best. Always inspect the ladder before use, and set the ladder up correctly. Read the safety labels and manufacturer instructions as it will provide specific information on the safe use of that particular ladder. This document discusses climbing up and down the ladder. Please see the other documents on Ladders from OSH Answers for more information. ## What should you do when climbing up or down a ladder? Always make sure the ladder is tied or secured correctly before using, and is placed on a level, firm and non-slippery surface. When climbing up or down, always: - Face the stepladder. - Keep your body centered between side rails. - Maintain three-point contact by keeping two hands and one foot, or two feet and one hand on a ladder always. - Keep a firm grip. - Make sure that footwear is in good condition. - Clean your footwear by removing mud, water, snow, ice or grease. Ladders - Climbing Up and Down Safely CCOHS
[3] Occupational Health and Safety Regulations (Nu Reg 003-2016)
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# Inspection (cont.) ## Fixed Ladders (cont.) (3) An employer shall ensure that (a) the rungs on a fixed ladder are uniformly spaced with centres that are not less than 250 mm and not more than 300 mm apart; (b) a clearance of not less than 150 mm is maintained between the rungs on a fixed ladder and the structure to which the ladder is affixed; (c) a fixed ladder is securely held in place at the top and bottom and at intermediate points that are necessary to prevent sway; (d) the side rails of a fixed ladder extend not less than 1 m above a platform, roof or other landing on the structure to which the ladder is fixed; (e) a ladder opening in a platform, roof or other landing does not exceed 750 mm by 750 mm; (f) a fixed ladder that is more than 6 m high is equipped with (i) platforms at intervals of not more than 6 m and ladder cages, or (ii) a personal fall arresting system; and (g) a fixed ladder in an excavated shaft is installed in a compartment that is separated from the hoist compartment by a substantial partition. (4) If a ladder cage is required by these regulations, an employer shall ensure that (a) the ladder cage is constructed of hoops that are not more than 1.8 m apart, joined by vertical members not more than 300 mm apart around the circumference of the hoop; (b) any point on a hoop of the ladder cage is not more than 750 mm from the ladder; and (c) the ladder cage is of sufficient strength and is designed to contain a worker who could lean or fall against a hoop. (5) If a ladder cage is constructed, an employer shall ensure that (a) the lowest hoop of the ladder cage is not more than 2.2 m from a platform, landing or the ground; and (b) the uppermost hoop of the ladder cage extends not less than 1 m above the level of a platform, landing or roof. ## Construction Ladders 262. (1) In this section, "construction ladder" means a ladder constructed at a work site. (échelle sur mesure) (2) An employer shall ensure that…
[4] Ladders - Inspection
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CCOHS CCHST Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety Centre canadien d'hygiène et de sécurité au travail Ladders # Ladders - Inspection ## On this page When should you inspect ladders? What should you look for when inspecting any ladder? What other things should I look for when inspecting stepladders? What should you look for when inspecting extension ladders? What should you do after inspecting any ladder? What are some things you should not do after inspecting ladders? ## When should you inspect ladders? - Inspect new ladders promptly upon receipt. - Inspect ladders before each use. - Check the condition of ladders that have been dropped or have fallen before using them again. - Inspect ladders before storing to make sure they are in good condition to store, or need repair, replacement or removal from the site. Most jurisdictions require that ladders be inspected before use. Contact the government department responsible for occupational health and safety. in your area for more information. ## What should you look for when inspecting any ladder? - missing or loose steps or rungs (they are loose if you can move them by hand) - damaged or worn non-slip feet - loose nails, screws, bolts or nuts - worn or loose or faulty spreaders, locks, and other metal parts in poor repair - rot, decay or warped rails in wooden ladders Ladders - Inspection CCOHS
[5] Ladders - Climbing Up and Down Safely
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# Ladders - Climbing Up and Down Safely (cont.) ## What should you not do when climbing up or down a ladder? (cont.) Do not wear loose clothing, jewellery, or anything else that may catch while climbing. ## What are other tips when working on or near ladders? Other tips include: - If working near electricity, do not use an aluminum ladder. Follow your jurisdiction's guidelines on the distances recommended for each level of electrical voltage that may be present. - Set up warning signs, barricades, lock the door, etc. as necessary to prevent other employees from bumping into the ladder. - Work from the center of the ladder. If you cannot reach, climb down and move the ladder. - Do not "shift" or "walk" a stepladder when standing on it. - Do not use tools that require a lot of leverage (such as a pry or pinch bar) as this motion may cause you to be unbalanced or fall. - Do not stand, climb, or sit on the stepladder top or pail shelf. - Do not stand on or above the top two rungs or steps of the ladder. - Do not allow another person to work below the ladder. - Do not use a ladder during high winds or other extreme weather. - Make sure all workers who may climb a ladder are properly trained. Fact sheet first published: 2019-01-14 Fact sheet last revised: 2025-04-15 ## Disclaimer Although every effort is made to ensure the accuracy, currency and completeness of the information, CCOHS does not guarantee, warrant, represent or undertake that the information provided is correct, accurate or current. CCOHS is not liable for any loss, claim, or demand arising directly or indirectly from any use or reliance upon the information. Ladders - Climbing Up and Down Safely CCOHS
[6] Ladders - Fixed Access
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CCOHS CCHST Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety Centre canadien d'hygiène et de sécurité au travail Ladders # Ladders - Fixed Access ## On this page When should you inspect fixed ladders? What should you check for when inspecting access ladders? What should you do when climbing a fixed ladder? What should you avoid when climbing a fixed ladder? ## When should you inspect fixed ladders? - Inspect the fixed ladder before each use. - Inspect fixed ladders periodically, at least annually. Inspections may be required more frequently depending on the organization's requirements or the ladder's exposure to elements such as weather or salt air. - Report any defect promptly. - Keep a record of every inspection. ## What should you check for when inspecting access ladders? - loose, worn and damaged rungs or side rails - damaged or a corroded cage - corroded guard, bolts and rivet heads - damaged or corroded handrails and brackets on platforms - broken or loose anchorages - weakened or damaged rungs on brick or concrete slabs - defects in climbing devices, including loose or damaged carrier rails or ropes - slippery surfaces from oil and ice - clutter obstructing the base of ladder or platform Ladders - Fixed Access CCOHS
[7] Occupational Health and Safety Code (Alberta Regulation 191/2021)
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# Part 8 Entrances, Walkways, Stairways and Ladders Entrances, Walkways, Stairways (cont.) ## Constructed portable ladder (cont.) Section 135 OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH AND SAFETY CODE Part 8 AR 191/2021 (a) has a centre structural rail along the length of the ladder, (b) is at least 1 metre wide, and (c) is constructed of materials that are substantial enough in size to accommodate the maximum intended load. ## Manufactured portable ladder 135 An employer must ensure that a portable ladder manufactured on or after July 1, 2009 meets the requirements of (a) CSA Standard CAN3 Z11-M81 (R2005), Portable Ladders, (b) ANSI Standard A14.1-2007, American National Standard for Ladders - Wood Safety Requirements, (c) ANSI Standard A14.2-2007, American National Standard for Ladders Portable Metal Safety Requirements, or (d) ANSI Standard A14.5-2007, American National Standard for Ladders Portable Reinforced Plastic - Safety Requirements ## Securing and positioning - 136 A worker must ensure that (a) a portable ladder is secured against movement and placed on a base that is stable, (b) the base of an inclined portable ladder is no further from the base of the wall or structure than 1/4 of the distance between the base of the ladder and the place where the ladder contacts the wall, and (c) the side rails of a portable ladder extend at least 1 metre above a platform, landing or parapet if the ladder is used as a means of access to the platform, landing or parapet. ## Fall protection 137(1) An employer must ensure that a worker working from a portable ladder from which the worker may fall 3 metres or more uses a personal fall arrest system. 137(2) Subsection (1) does not apply while the worker is moving up or down the portable ladder. - 137(3) Despite subsection (1), if it is not reasonably practical to use a personal fall arrest system, a worker may work from a portable ladder without fall protection if (a) the work is a light duty task of short duration at …
[8] Ladders - Extension
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# Ladders - Extension (cont.) ## What should you do to safely secure extension ladders? (cont.) - Raise and lower ladders from the ground. Ensure that locking ladder hooks are secure before climbing. - For access to an elevated work surface, erect ladders so that a minimum of 1 m (3 ft) extends above a landing platform. Tie the top at support points. - Use care when getting on and or off the ladder at the top or bottom in order to avoid tipping the ladder over sideways or causing the ladder base to slide. - Brace or tie off the ladder near the base. If there is no structure to tie off to, use a stake in the ground. - Leave all tie-off devices in place until they must be removed before taking the ladder down. - Maintain the minimum overlap of sections as shown on a ladder label. Refer to safety regulations. Set up barricades and warning signs when using a ladder in a doorway or passageway. Note: When working 3 metres (10 feet) or more above ground, a fall protection program may be necessary. Wear a safety belt or harness with the lanyard tied appropriately to the structure. Make sure that you follow working at heights training that includes how to use fall protection devices safely. Fly (upper section) Extension Tie-off Lock 4X Base (lower section) 1X Non-slip Feet ## What should you avoid when using extension ladders? - Do not use ladders near power lines. Keep ladders and other tools at least 10 feet away from power lines. - Do not use ladders unless they have been inspected by a trained or competent person. Ladders - Extension CCOHS
[9] Ladders - Inspection
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# Ladders - Inspection (cont.) ## What should you look for when inspecting any ladder? (cont.) - cracks and exposed fibreglass in fibreglass ladders - cracked, split, worn or broken rails, braces, steps or rungs - sharp edges on rails and rungs - rough or splintered surfaces - corrosion, rust, oxidization and excessive wear, especially on treads - twisted or distorted rails. Check ladders for distortion by sighting along the rails. Using a twisted or bowed ladder is hazardous. - damage or wear on other items such as spreaders, locking devices, hinges, springs or ropes. Check that these items are working properly before using the ladder. - missing identification labels ## What other things should I look for when inspecting stepladders? - wobble - loose or bent hinges and hinge spreaders - broken stop on a hinge spreader - loose pail shelf ## What should you look for when inspecting extension ladders? - loose, broken, or missing extension locks - defective locks that do not set properly when the ladder is extended - sufficient lubrication of working parts - defective cords, chains and ropes - missing or defective pads or sleeves ## What should you do after inspecting any ladder? - Tag any defective ladders and take them out of service. - Clean fibreglass ladders every three months. Spray lightly with a clear lacquer or paste wax. Ladders - Inspection CCOHS
[10] Occupational Health and Safety Regulations, 2012 (N.L. Reg. 5/12)
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# Back to Top (cont.) ## Portable ladder standards (cont.) (b) ANSI Standard A14.1-1990 "Safety Requirements for Portable Wood Ladders"; (c) ANSI Standard A14.2-1990 "Safety Requirements for Portable Metal Ladders"; or (d) other standard acceptable to the minister. (2) A manufactured portable ladder shall be (a) marked for grade and use; and (b) used in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions. 5/12 s148 ## Back to Top ## Job built ladders 149. Where a portable wooden ladder is constructed at the job site, (a) the side rails (i) shall be of 38 millimetres by 89 millimetres nominal dimensions for lengths up to 5 metres, and 38 millimetres by 140 millimetres nominal dimensions for lengths from 5 metres to 7.3 metres, and (ii) shall not be notched, dapped, tapered or spliced, - and the distance between the inner faces of the side rails shall not be less than 38 centimetres or more than 50 centimetres; (b) cleats shall be (i) 19 millimetres by 64 millimetres for ladder lengths up to 5 metres, (ii) 19 millimetres by 89 millimetres for ladder lengths from 5 metres to 7.3 metres, (iii) spaced at 30 centimetres centres, and (iv) nailed directly onto the smaller surfaces of the side rails, using three 57 millimetres wire nails on each end of the 89 millimetre cleats, and two similar nails on each end of the 64 millimetre cleats; (c) the spaces on the side rails between the cleats shall be filled with close fitting and well secured filler pieces that are the same thickness as the cleats; and (d) a double cleat ladder shall have 3 rails evenly spaced, and be 107 centimetres to 127 centimetres wide and have continuous cleats which extend the full width of the ladder. 5/12 S 149 ## Back to Top ## Protective coatings 150. A protective coating applied to a wooden ladder, other than a small amount for identification purposes, shall be transparent to allow defects to be discovered by inspection. 5/12 s150
[11] Occupational Health and Safety Regulation (B.C. Reg. 296/97)
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# Division 1 - General (cont.) ## Standards (cont.) WORKERS COMPENSATION ACT B.C. Reg. 296/97 # OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH AND SAFETY REGULATION Part 13 - Ladders, Scaffolds and Temporary Work Platforms (2) In designing and installing a work platform, appropriate safety factors and minimum rated loads must be used in the materials and method of installation, in accordance with (a) WCB Standard WPL 1, Design, Construction and Use of Wood Frame Scaffolds, 2004, (b) WCB Standard WPL 2, Design, Construction and Use of Crane Supported Work Platforms, 2004, (c) WCB Standard WPL 3, Safety Factor and Minimum Breaking Strength for Suspended Work Platforms and Associated Components, 2004, and (d) WCB Standard LDR 1, Job Built Ladders, 2004. [en. B.C. Reg. 422/2004, S. 1.] ## Inspections 13.3 A ladder, window cleaner's belt, work platform and associated components must be inspected before use on each shift, and after any modification, and any condition that might endanger workers must be remedied before the equipment is used. [en. B.C. Reg. 422/2004, S. 1.] ## Division 2 - Ladders ## Manufactured ladders 13.4 A manufactured portable ladder must be marked for the grade of material used to construct the ladder and the use for which the ladder is constructed. [en. B.C. Reg. 422/2004, S. 1.] ## Position and stability - 13.5 (1) A portable ladder must (a) be placed on a firm and level surface, and (b) be of sufficient length to enable the safe performance of the work activity while being used. (2) A portable non-self-supporting ladder must, (a) as shown in Figure 13-1, be positioned SO that the ladder is leaning against the vertical plane of support at an approximate angle of 75° when measured from the horizontal plane of support, (b) if the ladder provides access to or egress from an upper landing, (i) project approximately 1 m (3 ft) above the upper landing, and (ii) be sufficiently secured in place to ensure the stability of the ladder durin…
[12] Ladders - Climbing Up and Down Safely
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# Ladders - Climbing Up and Down Safely (cont.) ## What should you do when climbing up or down a ladder? (cont.) - Place feet firmly on each rung. - Wearing footwear with heels can help to stop the foot from slipping forward. - You have climbed too high if your knees are above top of the ladder or if you cannot maintain a handhold on the ladder. - Rise or lower tools and materials using a hoist, hand-line, bucket or other device. - If using an extension ladder, be careful when stepping or gripping near the locks as the locks will obscure part of the rung. - In most cases, only allow one person on a ladder at a time. Wait until the other person has stepped off the ladder before another person uses it. - Have a second person hold the bottom of a long ladder, especially when tying or untying an extension ladder. - Use the appropriate safety devices when needed (e.g., safety belt, fall restraint, etc.). Check with your jurisdiction for requirements when working at heights near or above 3 metres (10 feet). - Make sure that any harnesses or ties do not interfere with safe travel when on the ladder. 1 2 3 3-Point Contact ## What should you not do when climbing up or down a ladder? - Do not hurry up or slide down a ladder. - Do not jump from a ladder. Check footing before descending a ladder. - Do not carry tools or materials in your hand while climbing. Ladders - Climbing Up and Down Safely CCOHS
[13] Ladders - Inspection
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# Ladders - Inspection (cont.) ## What should you do after inspecting any ladder? (cont.) - Protect wooden ladders with a clear sealer or wood preservative. - Replace worn or frayed ropes on extension ladders. - Lubricate pulleys on extension ladders regularly. - Tag and take out of service any ladder that is has defects, or is broken or bent. Destroy ladders that cannot be repaired safely by a person authorized by the manufacturer. Ladders should be destroyed in a way that makes them useless. ## What are some things you should not do after inspecting ladders? - Do not make temporary or makeshift repairs. - Do not try to straighten or use bent or bowed ladders. Fact sheet last revised: 2021-08-25 ## Disclaimer Although every effort is made to ensure the accuracy, currency and completeness of the information, CCOHS does not guarantee, warrant, represent or undertake that the information provided is correct, accurate or current. CCOHS is not liable for any loss, claim, or demand arising directly or indirectly from any use or reliance upon the information. Ladders - Inspection CCOHS
[14] Occupational Health and Safety Regulations, 2012 (N.L. Reg. 5/12)
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# Back to Top ## Inspection 151. Portable ladders shall be inspected before use, and ladders with loose, broken or missing rungs, split side rails or other hazardous defects shall be removed from service. 5/12 s151 ## Back to Top ## Inclination and support 152. Where a portable single or extension ladder is in use (a) the ladder shall be placed so that the horizontal distance from the base to the vertical plane of support is approximately one-quarter of the ladder length between supports; and (b) the lower ends of the ladder side rails shall rest on a firm and level base and the upper support of the side rails shall be rested on a bearing surface strong enough to safely withstand the applied load. 5/12 s152 ## Back to Top ## Length 153. A ladder shall be of sufficient length to project approximately one metre above the level of the upper landing to which it provides access, except where there is limited clearance and the ladder is adequately secured. 5/12 s153 ## Back to Top ## Restrictions on use 154. (1) Except as otherwise permitted by a manufacturer, a worker shall not work from either the top 2 rungs of a portable single or extension ladder or the top 2 steps of a stepladder. (2) A ladder shall not be used as a scaffold component or as a horizontal walkway, ramp or work platform support except where the ladder is part of a premanufactured or engineered system. (3) A worker shall maintain 3 points of contact when using a ladder. (4) A worker may only work from a portable ladder without fall protection where (a) the work is a light duty task of short duration at each location; (b) the worker's centre of gravity is maintained between the ladder side rails; and (c) the ladder is not positioned near an edge or floor opening that would significantly increase the potential fall distance. 5/12 s154 Back to Top
[15] Ladders - Portable
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# What should you do before using a portable ladder? - Use a ladder designed for your task. Consider the strength, type, length and the Canadian Standards Association (CSA) approval. - Read and follow all the labels and markings on the ladder. - Make sure the load rating is indicated on the ladder and is appropriate for the user, equipment, and task. - Inspect the ladder before and after each use. - Reject and tag any ladders that have defects. Have faulty ladders repaired or thrown out. - Get help when handling a heavy or long ladder. - Keep ladders away from power wires, and if electricity is a hazard, a fibreglass ladder should be used. - Tie off extensions or straight ladders at the top and secure bottom to prevent them from slipping. - Set up barricades and warning signs when using a ladder in a doorway or passageway. - Before mounting a ladder, clean the boot soles if they are muddy or slippery. Avoid climbing with wet soles. Ensure that footwear is in good condition. - Face the ladder when going up or down and when working from it. - Keep the centre of your body within the middle of the side rails. - Consider having another worker hold and support the base of the ladder when needed Refer to safety regulations for specific measurement requirements. Refer to the CSA Z11-18 (R2022) Portable Ladders standard or the most current version for more requirements. ## What should you avoid when using a portable ladder? - Do not use a ladder in a horizontal position as a scaffold plank or runway. - Do not carry objects in your hands while on a ladder. Hoist materials or attach tools to a belt. - Do not work from the top three rungs. The higher a person goes on a ladder, the greater the possibility that the ladder will slip out at the base. - Do not use items such as a chair, barrel or box as a makeshift ladder. - Do not use a portable ladder when other types of equipment and safe means of access are available. Replace a ladder with a fixed…
[16] Occupational Health and Safety Regulations (Nu Reg 003-2016)
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Open source documentSource excerpt
# Inspection (cont.) ## Doors (cont.) (a) is strong enough to withstand traffic to which the travelway could be subjected; (b) has secure footing for workers and adequate traction for vehicles or equipment; and (c) is not less than 900 mm wide. (3) An employer shall ensure that a travelway that could give rise to a hazard described in subsection 119(1) is provided with a guardrail. ## Stairs 257. An employer shall ensure that (a) the widths of treads, the depths of treads and the vertical distances between treads are uniform throughout the length of a stairway and that each tread is level; and (b) stairs installed on or after the day on which this section comes into force, including temporary stairs, are not less than 600 mm wide. ## Ladders 258. (1) An employer or supplier shall ensure that a ladder at a work site is designed, constructed and used to safely perform its function and is maintained. (2) An employer or supplier shall ensure that (a) a wooden ladder or stepladder is not painted with a substance other than a transparent coating; and (b) - a ladder is not made by fastening cleats across a single rail or post. ## Portable Ladders 259. (1) In this section and section 260, "portable ladder" means a ladder that is not fixed in place, and includes a stepladder. (échelle portative) (2) An employer shall ensure that a portable ladder (a) is equipped with non-slip feet; (b) is secured against accidental movement during use; (c) that is metal or wire-bound is not used if the ladder or a worker handling or using the ladder could come into contact with an exposed energized conductor; and (d) extends not less than 1 m above a platform, roof or other landing to which the ladder is used as a means of access. (3) An employer shall ensure that each worker who handles or uses a portable ladder is instructed in the requirements of this section. (4) An employer shall ensure that a stepladder 116
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