Ladder Safety Toolbox Talk
Use the right ladder, inspect it before use, set it on stable ground, keep three points of contact, and extend portable ladders at least 3 feet above the landing when used for access.
Last reviewed by Ben SleemanCredentialed safety reviewer
29 CFR 1926.1053
A ladder is a tool, not a shortcut. Before using it, inspect the rungs, feet, rails, labels, and spreaders. If it is damaged, tag it out and remove it from service.
Set the ladder on stable, level ground. Use the 4-to-1 angle for extension ladders. Keep your belt buckle between the rails and maintain three points of contact.
Do not carry loads that make climbing unsafe. If the ladder is being used to reach another level, it needs to extend at least 3 feet above the landing or be otherwise secured for safe access.
Incident example
An electrician reached sideways from the third rung instead of climbing down and moving the ladder. The ladder shifted, and he fell onto stored material. The task took less than a minute, but the setup made the fall possible.
Controls to cover
Inspect ladders before each use.
Set extension ladders at the correct angle and secure them when needed.
Keep three points of contact and avoid side-reaching.
Move the ladder instead of stretching from it.
Crew discussion
Which tasks today require ladders?
Where could ladder feet slip or sink on this site?
What task should use a lift or scaffold instead of a ladder?
3-question quiz
What is the extension ladder setup ratio?
About 4 feet up for every 1 foot out.
How far should an access ladder extend above the landing?
At least 3 feet unless another safe grab point is provided.
What should happen to a damaged ladder?
Tag it out and remove it from service.
Need the OSHA rule behind the talk?
Use the dated OSHA for Construction field guide for current penalty amounts, inspection steps, recordkeeping guidance, and the heat rule’s real status.
Sources and review notes
The safety content, regulatory citations, and downloadable resources completed named credentialed safety review on . Confirm current requirements before relying on them at the jobsite.
Common questions.
What is three points of contact?
Can a ladder be used from unstable ground?
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