Ladder Safety on Construction Sites

Choosing the Right Ladder

Types of Ladders

1. Stepladders
   • Self-supporting A-frame design
   • Good for work in the center of a room
   • Never lean against a wall when closed
2. Extension Ladders
   • Non-self-supporting
   • Must lean against a stable structure
   • Good for reaching higher areas
   • Available in various lengths
3. Fixed Ladders
   • Permanently attached to a structure
   • Often found on buildings and equipment
   • May require fall protection based on height

Ladder Materials

• Wood: Non-conductive but can deteriorate
• Aluminum: Lightweight but conducts electricity (never use near power lines)
• Fiberglass: Strong, non-conductive, but heavier

Duty Ratings

Choose a ladder that can support your weight plus tools and materials:

• Type IAA: 375 lbs (Special duty)
• Type IA: 300 lbs (Extra heavy duty)
• Type I: 250 lbs (Heavy duty)
• Type II: 225 lbs (Medium duty)
• Type III: 200 lbs (Light duty - not recommended for construction)

Ladder Inspection

Always inspect before use. Look for:

• Loose, broken, or missing rungs
• Loose hinges or braces
• Damaged side rails
• Missing labels
• Grease, oil, or other slippery substances
• Damage to feet or other components

If you find any defects, tag the ladder "Do Not Use" and report it to your supervisor.

Setting Up a Ladder Safely

For Stepladders:

1. Open completely and lock spreaders
2. Set on firm, level ground
3. Never stand on the top two steps
4. Keep your belt buckle between the side rails

For Extension Ladders:

1. Follow the 4-to-1 rule: For every 4 feet of height, place the base 1 foot from the wall
2. Extend 3 feet above the upper landing surface
3. Secure at top and bottom when possible
4. Place on firm, level ground
5. Have a helper hold the ladder when possible

Safe Ladder Use

Three-Point Contact

Always maintain three points of contact while climbing:

• Two hands and one foot, or
• Two feet and one hand

Positioning

• Face the ladder when climbing up or down
• Stay centered between the side rails
• Never lean too far to either side (keep your belt buckle between the rails)
• Never stand higher than the third rung from the top

Safe Practices

• Never carry tools in your hands while climbing
• Use a tool belt or hoist tools up separately
• One person on a ladder at a time
• Don't place ladders in front of doors without blocking the door
• Keep ladders away from electrical lines (minimum 10 feet)
• Don't use ladders in high winds
• Don't stand on the top cap of a stepladder
• Don't use a stepladder as a straight ladder
• Don't place ladders on unstable bases like boxes or barrels

Common Ladder Accidents and Prevention

Tipping

• Ensure the ground is level
• Use ladder levelers if necessary
• Have a coworker hold the ladder
• Never set up on soft ground

Slipping

• Ensure feet have slip-resistant pads
• Keep shoes clean
• Avoid climbing in wet or icy conditions
• Tie off the ladder when possible

Electrocution

• Use only non-conductive ladders near electricity
• Stay at least 10 feet from overhead power lines
• Be aware of all electrical hazards in your work area