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Write a toolbox talk on Step ladders

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A good toolbox talk on step ladders should emphasize that ladder falls are a major injury and fatality hazard, and that workers must choose the right ladder, inspect it before each use, set it up correctly, and use it within its design limits. Stepladders are self-supporting ladders with flat steps and hinged tops, and they are intended for light access work, not as platforms or makeshift straight ladders. Employers should also evaluate whether the task can be done safely from a ladder at all; if not, a scaffold or lift is the safer choice. [1] [4] [6]

Key ladder safety requirements and pre-use inspection points include:

Select the right ladder type and material for the job; use a non-conductive ladder such as fiberglass if there is any chance of electrical contact.
Verify the ladder duty rating and never exceed the rated load, including the worker, tools, and materials.
Inspect before each use for bent, broken, split, cracked, loose, corroded, or missing parts; check rails, steps/rungs, bolts, rivets, spreaders, feet, and labels.
Make sure the ladder is clean and free of grease, oil, mud, wet paint, or other slippery substances.
Remove defective ladders from service immediately and tag them so they are not used.

[1] [1] [1] [13] Safe setup and use of step ladders should cover:

Set all four feet on a firm, level, dry, non-slippery surface.
Fully open the stepladder and lock the spreaders before climbing.
Keep the area around the ladder clear, and protect the ladder from doors, pedestrians, vehicles, and other traffic.
Face the ladder when climbing and maintain three points of contact at all times.
Keep your body centered between the side rails; do not lean, overreach, or make sudden movements. Reposition the ladder instead.
Do not carry tools or materials in your hands while climbing; use a tool belt, hand line, rope, or hoist.
Only one person should be on the ladder at a time unless the ladder is specifically designed otherwise.
Never move, shift, hop, or walk a ladder while someone is on it.
Never stand on the top step, top cap, or bucket/pail shelf, and do not climb the back section unless it is designed for climbing.
Do not use a stepladder in a closed or partially closed position and do not use it as a straight ladder.

[5] [5] [7] [1] [1] [5] [2] [5] [5] [7] Working at height hazards with step ladders include falls caused by improper setup, unstable or slippery surfaces, overreaching, standing on the top step, damaged ladders, carrying objects while climbing, electrical contact, and ladders placed in high-traffic areas. Fall prevention starts with planning the job, choosing the right ladder, keeping it secure and stable, maintaining three points of contact, and stopping work if the task requires side loading, excessive reach, or exposure to an unprotected edge. If employees are working near an open side, edge, guardrail opening, balcony, or similar drop, a separate fall hazard assessment is needed because a ladder fall may send the worker to a lower level. [2] [7] [5] [10]

For load limits, workers must understand that the ladder rating must cover the total intended load, not just body weight. That includes the worker, clothing, tools, materials, and anything else carried or supported by the ladder. Common duty ratings referenced in OSHA guidance for stepladders are Type IAA 375 lb, Type IA 300 lb, Type I 250 lb, Type II 225 lb, and Type III 200 lb. Using an underrated ladder can make it unstable or cause structural failure. [3] [11] [11]

Three points of contact means the worker should always have either two hands and one foot, or two feet and one hand, in contact with the ladder while climbing. This reduces the chance of slipping and helps maintain balance. Workers should face the ladder, keep their body near the middle, and avoid carrying items in their hands while ascending or descending. [1] [13]

For OSHA requirements, a toolbox talk should reference OSHA construction ladder rules in 29 CFR 1926 Subpart X, especially 29 CFR 1926\.1053 for ladders. Key regulatory themes include using ladders only for their designed purpose, inspecting them for defects, keeping them on stable and level surfaces, preventing displacement, keeping them free of slippery substances, not using the top step or cap unless designed for that purpose, and training workers to recognize and minimize ladder hazards. Employers should also follow manufacturer instructions and any stricter state-plan requirements. [6] [7] [7] [13]

Employee training guidance should include both classroom discussion and hands-on demonstration. Workers should be trained by a competent person on ladder selection, hazard recognition, inspection, setup, climbing technique, load limits, electrical hazards, traffic hazards, and when a ladder is not the right equipment. Training should also cover site-specific fall hazards, the prohibition on standing on the top step or cap, and the requirement to remove damaged ladders from service. Supervisors should document attendance, observe employees using ladders in the field, and retrain when unsafe practices are observed or conditions change. [8] [12] [12] [9]

A practical close-out message for the talk is: if the ladder is damaged, unstable, overloaded, too short, too close to electricity, or requires you to stand on the top step or overreach, stop and get the right equipment.

13 source record(s)

Sources used for this answer

[1] Toolbox Talk: Extension Ladder Safety

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# EXTENSION LADDER SAFETY Date Posted: 05/15/2024 Although one of the most common tools used on a construction site, extension ladders can lead to severe injuries or even fatal incidents if improperly used. Ladders are involved in 20 percent of fall injuries among workers and 81 percent of construction worker fall injuries. The latest U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) data shows that ladders were the primary source of 161 fatal work injuries in 2020 nationally. Additionally, a ladder was the primary source of 22,710 injuries that year. The BLS also says "construction and extraction" had the second-most nonfatal injuries in 2020, with 5,370. Only "installation, maintenance and repair" (5,790) had more nonfatal injuries associated with ladder use or misuse. ## WHAT IS AN EXTENSION LADDER WAC [redacted identifier] defines an extension ladder as "A non-self-supporting portable ladder which is adjustable in length." Also known as "portable ladders," extension ladders usually have two sections that operate in brackets or guides, allowing for adjustable lengths. Because extension ladders are not self-supporting, they require a stable structure that can withstand the intended load. ## PROPER EXTENSION LADDER SET-UP Setting the ladder at the correct angle is one of the most critical steps to a safe setup. Start by leaning the ladder at a 4:1 ratio. This means that the base needs to be one foot away for every four feet of height between the base and where the ladder contacts the structure you're leaning against. Too steep, and it could tip over backward. Too much angle and it could bend, or the bottom could slide out. ## EXTENSION LADDER DUTY RATINGS Even though they may all look the same, each ladder has a different load limit. WAC [redacted identifier] defines a ladder's maximum intended load as "the total load of all persons, equipment, tools, materials, transmitted loads, and other loads reasonably anticipated to be applied to a ladder or ladder component at…

[2] Ladder Safety

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WORK SAFE KENTUCKY Free safety resources provided by KEMI HOME SAFETY RESOURCES SAFETY TRAINING SAFETY BLOG ABOUT KEMI CONTACT US O # Ladder Safety ## Print a Sign-In Sheet | Spanish Version Falling from portable ladders (step, straight, combination, and extension) is one of the leading causes of occupational fatalities and injuries. • Read and follow all labels/markings on the ladder. Contact Us | Privacy Policy ©2022 KEMI • Avoid electrical hazards! Look for overhead power lines before handling a ladder. Avoid using a metal ladder near power lines exposed energized electrical equipment. or • Always inspect the ladder prior using it. If the ladder is damaged, it must be removed from service and tagged until repaired or discarded. • Always maintain a three-point (two hands and a foot or two feet and a hand) contact on the ladder when climbing. Keep your body near the middle of the step and always face the ladder while climbing. • Only use ladders and appropriate accessories (ladder levelers, jacks, or hooks) for their designed purposes. • Ladders must be free of any slippery material on the rungs, steps, or feet. • Do not use a self-supporting ladder (e.g., stepladder) as a single ladder or in a partially closed position. • Do not use the top step/rung of a ladder as a step/rung unless it was designed for that purpose. • Use a ladder only on a stable and level surface, unless it has been secured (top or bottom) to prevent displacement. • Do not place a ladder on boxes, barrels, or other unstable bases to obtain additional height. • Do not move or shift a ladder while a person or equipment is on the ladder. • Do not overreach while working from a ladder. • An extension or straight ladder used to access an elevated surface must extend at least 3 feet above the point support. Do not stand on the three top rungs of a straight, single, or extension ladder. • The proper angle for setting up a ladder is to place its base a quarter of the working len…

[3] Toolbox Talk: Step Ladder Checklist

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# STEP LADDER CHECKLIST Date Posted: 08/18/2016 According to OSHA, all falls account for 37% of fatalities. Falls from ladders killed 19 workers in the construction trades in Washington State between 1998 and 2011. ## GUIDELINES WHEN USING STEP LADDERS • Inspect the ladder before use for physical defects such as loose joints, grease on steps, or missing, damaged, rubber feet. • Always set all four feet of a stepladder on a level, solid, firm surface. • When using a stepladder, make sure it is fully opened and the spreaders are locked in place. • Do not use a stepladder as a straight ladder. • Never - climb the back section of a stepladder. This is not designed to climb or support your weight. • You must prohibit standing or stepping on these areas of the ladder; top cap and top step, and bucket or pail shelf. • Do not straddle the front and back of a stepladder. • Fall protection may be needed if working next to a guard rail. ## SAFE WORK PRACTICES • Check the area above and below prior to ascending or descending a ladder and be aware of any dangers that could result in injury. Always face a ladder going up and coming down. while • Keep your waist within the boundary of the side rails. Never reach out past the ladder side rails. • Always climb a ladder with both hands. Do not carry tools up or down a ladder. Use a rope or a tool bag to lower and raise tools. • Be - sure that both the ladder and your shoes are dry, and free of grease, wet paint, etc. . Do not try to move, hop, or walk a ladder while on it. ## OSHA COMMON STATS L&I SAFETY RESEARCH ## QUESTIONS FOR DISCUSSION • Have you ever fallen from a ladder? • Were you standing on the top steps? ## PRESENTER TIPS • Pre-read the Toolbox Talk. Your comfort level and confidence will be higher if you know your topic. • Discuss related tasks, work areas or events that make the Toolbox Talk relevant to your job site. • Involve the workers by asking questions and input that drives …

[4] OSHA Quick Card - Portable Ladder Safety

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# OSHA CARD™ CARD™ QUICK # Portable Ladder Safety Falls from portable ladders (step, straight, combination and extension) are one of the leading causes of occupational fatalities and injuries. • Read and follow all labels/markings on the ladder. • Avoid electrical hazards! - Look for overhead power lines before handling a ladder. Avoid using a metal ladder near power lines or exposed energized electrical equipment. • Always inspect the ladder prior to using it. If the ladder is damaged, it must be removed from service and tagged until repaired or discarded. • Always maintain a 3-point (two hands and a foot, or two feet and a hand) con- tact on the ladder when climbing. Keep your body near the middle of the step and always face the ladder while climbing (see diagram). • Only use ladders and appro- priate accessories (ladder levelers, jacks or hooks) for their designed purposes. - 3-Point Contact • Ladders must be free of any slippery material on the rungs, steps or feet. • Do not use a self-supporting ladder (e.g., step ladder) as a single ladder or in a partially closed position. • Do not use the top step/rung of a ladder as a step/rung unless it was designed for that purpose. (continued on reverse)

[5] OSHA Fact Sheet - Reducing Falls in Construction: Safe Use of Stepladders

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# TRAIN Workers to Use Stepladders Safely. Employers must train each worker to recognize and minimize ladder-related hazards. PLAN. PROVIDE. TRAIN. Three simple steps to prevent falls. ## Common Stepladder Hazards • Damaged stepladder • Ladders on slippery or unstable surface • Unlocked ladder spreaders • Standing on the top step or top cap - Loading ladder beyond rated load • Ladders in high-traffic location - Reaching outside ladder side rails - Ladders in close proximity to electrical wiring/equipment ## Safe Stepladder Use―DO: Read and follow all the manufacturer's instructions and labels on the ladder. - Look for overhead power lines before handling or climbing a ladder. - Maintain a 3-point contact (two hands and a foot, or two feet and a hand) when climbing/ descending a ladder. - Stay near the middle of the ladder and face the ladder while climbing up/down. - Use a barricade to keep traffic away from the ladder. ## Additional Resources OSHA standard: 29 CFR 1926 Subpart X- Stairways and Ladders American National Standards Institute standard: ANSI A14.1, A14.2, A14.5-Ladder Safety Requirements (Not an OSHA standard, included to be used as guidance to meet OSHA's requirements) Employers using stepladders must follow the ladder requirements set forth in 29 CFR 1926 Subpart X. Per Appendix A to Subpart X of Part 1926-Ladders, ladders designed in accordance with the following ANSI standards will be considered in accordance • Keep ladders free of any slippery materials. - Only put ladders on a stable and level surface that is not slippery. ## Safe Stepladder Use-DO NOT: • Use ladders for a purpose other than that for which they were designed. For example, do not use a folded stepladder as a single ladder. • Use a stepladder with spreaders unlocked. • Use the top step or cap as a step. • Place a ladder on boxes, barrels or other unstable bases. • Move or shift a ladder with a person or equipment on the ladder. . Use cross bracing on…

[6] SC OSHA FACT SHEET: Fall Prevention

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# Fall Prevention Fact Sheet (cont.) South Carolina OSHA Occupational Safety and Health Administration South Carolina Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation # FALLS FROM LADDERS CAN BE PREVENTED! REMEMBER ✓ Choose the right ladder Maintain three points of contact ✓ Secure the ladder ✓ Always face the ladder Plan, ahead to get the job done safely Provide, the right roof equipment Train, everyone to use the equipment safely Do Not: Stand on top or on the top ✓ step of a stepladder ✓ Overreach Place the ladder on unlevel ✓ footing

[7] OSHA Fact Sheet - Reducing Falls in Construction: Safe Use of Stepladders

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OSHA FactSheet # Reducing Falls in Construction: Safe Use of Stepladders Workers who use ladders in construction risk permanent injury or death from falls and electrocutions. These hazards can be eliminated or substantially reduced by following good safety practices. This fact sheet examines some of the hazards workers may encounter while working on stepladders and explains what employers and workers can do to reduce injuries. OSHA's requirements for stepladders are in Subpart X—Stairways and Ladders of OSHA's Construction standards. ## What is a Stepladder? A stepladder is a portable, self-supporting, A-frame ladder. It has two front side rails and two rear side rails. Generally, there are steps mounted between the front side rails and bracing between the rear side rails. (See Figure 1, below.) Top Cap Top Step Front Side Rails Rear Side Rails Step Spreaders Anti-Slip Safety Shoes/Feet Figure 1: Stepladder ## PLAN Ahead to Get the Job Done Safely. A competent person must visually inspect stepladders for visible defects on a periodic basis and after any occurrence that could affect their safe use. Defects include, but are not limited to: Structural damage, split/bent side rails, broken or missing rungs/steps/cleats and missing or damaged safety devices. - Grease, dirt or other contaminants that could cause slips or falls. - Paint or stickers (except warning or safety labels) that could hide possible defects. ## PROVIDE the Right Stepladder for the Job with the Proper Load Capacity. • Use a ladder that can sustain at least four times the maximum intended load, except that each extra-heavy duty type 1A metal or plastic ladder shall sustain at least 3.3 times the maximum intended load. Also acceptable are ladders that meet the requirements set forth in Appendix A of Subpart X. Follow the manufacturer's instructions and labels on the ladder. To determine the correct ladder, consider your weight plus the weight of your load. Do not exceed the load rati…

[8] MIOSHA Fact Sheet: Ladder Safety

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# MIOSHA Fact Sheet # Ladder Safety MIOSHA Michigan Occupational Safety and Health Administration Ladder use is an integral part of the construction industry. The proper use of ladders is imperative to providing a safe workplace for everyone. Below are a few key points in the safe use of ladders and requirements of Construction Standard Part 11, Fixed and Portable Ladders (Part 11, Fixed and Portable Ladders). It is vital that employers train their employees in the proper use and set-up of ladders and provide them with the right ladders to do the work safely. Part 11, Fixed and Portable Ladders Rule 1112(1) states: "The employer shall provide a training program for each employee who uses a ladder. The program shall enable each employee to recognize hazards related to the ladder and shall train each employee in the procedures to be followed to minimize these hazards." Training shall include: the nature of fall hazards in the work area, the proper use and care of ladders, and the maximum intended load- carrying capacities of ladders that are used. ## Key safety points when using portable ladders: • Always select the correct ladder for the work being performed. Ensure the ladder is only used for its intended purpose. Follow the manufacturer's instructions. • Place the ladder on a substantial and stable base and secure to prevent accidental displacement. • A portable ladder must be equipped with appropriate safety feet unless the ladder is secured against displacement. • A portable extension ladder shall be set up so the horizontal distance from the top support to the base is 14 of the vertical distance. In other words, for every 4-feet up the base should be 1-foot back. • Ensure the ladder is kept clear of energized electrical lines. The minimum distance for metal ladders is 20 feet. Minimum distance for other than metal is 10 feet for up to 50kV and 0.4 inches per kV thereafter. • Face the ladder while ascending or descending. • Always center your body be…

[9] Ladder Safety Checklist

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Washington State Department of Labor & Industries Division of Occupational Safety and Health # Ladder Safety Checklist Date: <empty> Employer/Business: <empty> Completed By (Name/Title): <empty> Job Location: <empty> Length of Ladder: <empty> <table><tr><th>Ladders, Portable and Fixed WAC 296-876</th><th>Yes</th><th>No</th><th>N/A</th></tr><tr><td>Have all employees received training from a competent person to recognize ladder hazards and the procedures to minimize these hazards? 876-[redacted postal code]</td><td></td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>Has the right ladder been selected for the job? 876-[redacted postal code]</td><td></td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>Has the ladder been inspected for defects, cracks, corrosion, and are bolts and rivets secure? 876-[redacted postal code]</td><td></td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>Have unsafe ladders been tagged and removed from service? 876-[redacted postal code](4)</td><td></td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>Has the ladder been placed away from overhead electrical wires? 876-[redacted postal code]</td><td></td><td>ום</td><td>וחו</td></tr><tr><td>Is a non-conductive ladder (e.g. fiberglass) in use if there is any chance of contact with electricity? 876-[redacted postal code](1)</td><td></td><td>ם</td><td>ח</td></tr><tr><td>Do the ladder's feet work properly and have slip-resistant pads? 876-[redacted postal code](1)</td><td></td><td>ום</td><td></td></tr><tr><td>Has the ladder been placed away from exit doors and/or away from the path of pedestrians or vehicle traffic? If placed in front of a door — is the door open or locked shut? 876-[redacted postal code]</td><td></td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>Has the ladder been placed on firm, level footing and is there rigid support for the top of the ladder? 876-[redacted postal code]</td><td></td><td></td><td></td></tr><tr><td>Is the load the ladder is supporting within the manufacture's duty rating? 876-[redacted postal code](2)</td><td></td><td></td><td></td></tr><…

[10] Toolbox Talk: Step Ladder Safety

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# STEP LADDER SAFETY Date Posted: 05/29/2024 According to the According to Washington Administrative Code (WAC) [redacted identifier], "A self-supporting portable ladder, nonadjustable in length, with flat steps and hinged at the top. The size is designated by the overall length of the ladder measured along the front edge of the side rails." A stepladder is a handy, simple tool, but if you do not choose the right one for the job or it is not maintained properly, you have an increased risk of injury. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), falls are among the top five causes of fatal occupational injuries. In 2020, there were 105 deaths from movable ladders and 5 deaths from fixed ladders. Additionally, a ladder was the primary source of 22,710 injuries that year. ## SELECTING THE RIGHT STEP LADDER A stepladder is a folding ladder with flat steps and a small platform. It's the smallest ladder and is typically used in smaller projects that don't require much extra height. Stepladders are made of metal/aluminum, wood, and fiberglass. Choosing the right ladder for the job is very important. For example, because metal is a great conductor of electricity, it would be best to use a fiberglass ladder for electrical work. ## STEP LADDER DUTY RATINGS Even though they may all look the same, each ladder has a different load limit. Therefore, you want to ensure that the ladder you use is designed to carry your weight and the weight of the equipment being carried up and down the ladder. Otherwise, the ladder may become unstable and cause injury. ## INSPECTING THE STEP LADDER • Workers should conduct inspections of step ladders by checking the following items: • Joints between the steps or rungs and the side rails are tight. • Rungs, cleats, or steps are not bent, broken, or missing. • Side rails are not bent, broken, or split. • All bolts and rivets are in place and secure. Hardware, fittings, and accessories are securely attached and working properly. …

[11] LADDER SAFETY - For Residential Construction Contractors

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# Plan Ahead for the Job and Inspect Ladders Before Use First, can the task be done safely from a ladder? If not, use scaffolding or a lift. If using ladders: • Bring the right ladder for the job: self- supporting, straight, or extension ladder. • Check the duty rating label on the ladder. Don't overload. NOTICE AVISO Ladder Size: 6' Duty Rating: Type IA Maximum Load: 300 lbs. Highest standing level: 45 3/8" • Heavy-duty industrial ladders (Type 1 or 1A), can only carry up to 250 or 300 pounds including the worker and their tools. • Check the ladder for loose, cracked or greasy rungs, split side rails, and worn shoes. Make sure the rung locks are in working order. • Tag and remove defective ladders from the job site. • Don't use a ladder in a horizontal position as a scaffold. • Call the electric company for assistance if working near power lines, to prevent electrocution. Fact: It only takes 1 second to hit the ground from a 16-foot fall. Over half of the fatal falls in construction are from heights of less than 25 feet. ## Setting Up Ladders • Clear away debris and obstructions, and block off the area around the bottom of the ladder to prevent it from being bumped into. • Set the ladder on dry, level ground. Use the "heel test" to check firmness of the ground. Stomp your heel down; if it goes into the ground more than 1 inch, a base is needed below the ladder. • If a base is needed, set it on a secure, even surface. Plywood can be used if it is dry, clean and sturdy enough to support the expected load. • Set the base of the ladder at a distance of 1 foot out for every 4 feet high. • When accessing a porch or roof, extend ladder side rails 3 feet above landing. For extra stability, secure the ladder by tying it to the building. • If a ladder must be placed in front of a door, secure the door shut so it cannot open. • Use ladder stabilizers when appropriate. ## Climbing Ladders • Allow only one person on the ladder at a time. Always f…

[12] Toolbox Talk: Ladder Safety

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# LADDER SAFETY Date Posted: 09/07/2016 Every year, many workers in Washington State are seriously injured from falling off ladders in their workplace. These injuries include dislocated limbs, broken bones, head injuries and even death from their injuries. ## THESE ACCIDENTS OCCUR BECAUSE: • The ladder moves, falls over, or is set up improperly. • The worker slips on the rungs, overreaches, or carries objects while climbing. • The worker stands on the top step of the ladder. • The ladder being used in not in good condition. ## INSPECTION - Before beginning any work involving a ladder: • Look for missing or loose cleats at the bottom. • Look for loose or missing screws, bolts or nails on job made ladders • Look for cracked, broken, split, dented or badly worn rungs, cleats or side rails. • Splinters on wood ladders, or corrosion on metal ladders. ## LADDER USE • Always use the right ladder for the task. • Keep the area at the top and bottom of the ladder clear of tool cords, tools material and garbage. • Always set the ladder on solid footing. • Use a twenty-five percent (25%) angle on the slope of an extension ladder. • When using extension ladders, the ladder must be 36" (3 feet) above the landing. • Always secure the top of an extension ladder to prevent it from sliding. • Don't lean to the side when on a ladder. • Do not carry tools or materials on a ladder. Use a hand line to raise or lower tools, equipment or materials. • Always face the ladder. • Use 3 point contact when climbing a ladder. • Only one person on a ladder at a time. • Never lean a stepladder; always fully open a stepladder. ## QUESTIONS FOR DISCUSSION • What is the most common ladder safety issue you see in your workplace? • Why is it important to inspect the ladder prior to each use? • Why is it important to extend a non self supporting ladder beyond the point of contact? ## PRESENTER TIPS • Pre-read the Toolbox Talk. Your comfort level and confidence will be hi…

[13] SafetyWorks! Toolbox Talks: Ladder Safety

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# SafetyWorks! Toolbox Talks # Subject: Ladders Injuries in the workplace because of ladder are commonplace. Falls from ladders can be as painful as a fall from a roof; about a third of all reported falls are falls from ladders. Many of the fall related injuries result from the improper use or the use of a defective ladder. Step/extension ladders are made to access/egress upper levels, not to be used as work platforms. There are specifically designed ladders for use as work platforms such as order pickers. These ladders are constructed with a small platform and guardrail. The following safe work rules should be observed when working with ladders. ## Guide for Discussion Inspection - Look for missing or loose cleats at the bottom. • Look for loose or missing screws, bolts or nails on job made ladders • Look for cracked, broken, split, dented or badly worn rungs, cleats or side rails. • Splinters on wood ladders. • Corrosion on metal ladders. ## Ladder Use • Always use the right ladder for the right job. • Don't set your ladder in a walkway or door opening. • Keep the area at the top and bottom of the ladder clear of tool cords, tools, material and garbage. • Always set the ladder on solid footing. • Use a twenty-five percent (4:1) angle on the slope of the ladder. • When using extension ladders, the three (3) top rungs must extend beyond the landing platform. (Or the top of an extension ladder must be 36" (3 feet) above the landing. - Don't lean to the side when on a ladder or you may tip over. • Do not carry tools or materials on a ladder. Use both hands when climbing a ladder to grab onto the side rails. If it is necessary to move material or tools up a ladder, first climb up, then pull up the work with a hand line. • Only one person on a ladder at a time (unless the ladder is double cleated). • Always secure the top of the ladder to prevent it from sliding. • Never lean a step ladder; always fully open a step ladder. • Always face the ladde…

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Publisher: SALUS
Final reviewer: Francis Langlois
Original answer: May 14, 2026

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