Ladder Safety
US & Canada General Construction
Why it matters
Falls from ladders are one of the leading causes of construction injuries and deaths.
Key points
- Inspect the ladder before every use: rails, rungs, feet, and locks.
- Maintain three points of contact at all times.
- Set extension ladders at a 4-to-1 angle (1 ft out for every 4 ft up).
- Extend the ladder 3 ft above the landing point and tie it off.
- Never stand on the top two rungs of a stepladder.
- Keep metal ladders away from power lines - use fiberglass near electrical work.
Discussion
Ask the crew: where on this site are we using ladders today, and is each one the right ladder for the job?
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