16 Ways to stay safe on portable ladders

Falls from portable ladders (step, straight, combination and extension) are one of the leading causes of occupational fatalities and injuries.

​OSHA has 16 tips for staying safe when using a portable ladder.

1. Read and follow all labels/markings on the ladder.
2. 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.
3. Always inspect the ladder prior to use. Damaged ladders must be removed from service and tagged until repaired or discarded.
4. Always maintain a 3-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.
5. Only use ladders and appropriate accessories (ladder levelers, jacks or hooks) for their designed purposes.
6. Ladders must be free of slippery material on the rungs, steps or feet.
7. Do not use a self-supporting ladder (e.g., step ladder) as a single ladder or in a partially closed position.
8. Do not use the top step/rung of a ladder as a step/rung unless it was designed for that purpose.
9. Use a ladder only on a stable and level surface, unless it has been secured to prevent displacement.
10. Do not place a ladder on boxes, barrels or other unstable bases.
11. Do not move or shift a ladder while it’s in use.
12. An extension or straight ladder used to access an elevated surface must extend at least 3 feet above the point of support. Do not stand on the three top rungs of a straight, single or extension ladder.
13. The proper angle for setting up a ladder is to place its base a quarter of the working length of the ladder from the wall or other vertical surface.
14. Ladders must be secured to prevent displacement or a barricade must be erected to keep traffic away from the ladder.
15. Be sure that all locks on an extension ladder are properly engaged.
16. Be aware of the ladder’s load rating and of the weight it is supporting. Do not exceed the maximum load rating of a ladder.