Home Ladder Safety 

Typically, work on your own home is going to involve a portable ladder. Hanging lights, changing a bulb, painting just out of arm’s reach, all of these common scenarios are perfect for a ladder. While completing projects, remember that following proper ladder safety is key. Some fall protection requirements include; making sure the ladder is extended 3 feet over the edge of the roof and having 3 points of contact on the ladder at all times is a good start, but there is much more to consider.

In 2022, the Occupational Health & Safety Administration (Federal OSHA), provides the following Quick Card on Portable Ladder Safety. Falls from portable ladders are one of the leading causes of occupational fatalities and injuries.

Read and Follow Labels/Markings

Pay close attention to labels and markings on the ladder, which provide crucial information including:

• Maximum Length and Load Capacity

• Duty Rating

• Material

• Height

• Usage Instructions

• Safety Warnings

Ladder safety precautions are extremely important in any workplace or household setting, serving as a critical safeguard against potentially life-threatening accidents. By observing usage guidelines, individuals lessen the risk of falls, injuries, and even fatalities, ensuring a safe and secure environment for all. Prioritizing ladder safety not only protects individuals from harm but also promotes productivity and efficiency by minimizing downtime caused by accidents or injuries.

Safety Precautions:

• Avoid Electrical Hazards: Check for overhead power lines before handling a ladder, and refrain from using metal ladders near power lines or exposed energized electrical equipment.

• Inspect Before Use: Always inspect the ladder prior to use to ensure it is in good condition.

• Maintain Three-Point Contact: Maintain three points of contact on the ladder while climbing.

• Proper Climbing Technique: Keep your body near the middle of the step and always face the ladder while climbing.

• Use for Intended Purpose: Only use ladders and appropriate accessories for their designed purposes.

• Avoid Slippery Surfaces: Ensure ladders are free of any slippery material on the rungs, steps, or feet.

• Stability: Use ladders only on stable and level surfaces, avoiding placement on unstable bases or surfaces.

• Secure Placement: Do not move or shift a ladder while someone or equipment is on it.

• Extension Ladders: Ensure proper extension above the support point and set up at the correct angle.

• Secure Ladder Placement: Secure ladders to prevent displacement in locations where they may be shifted by other work activities.

• Engage Locks: Ensure all locks on extension ladders are properly engaged.

• Stay within Load Rating: Do not exceed the maximum load rating of the ladder.

Specific Recommendations for Step Ladders:

• Ensure spreader bars are fully extended and locked before climbing.

• Avoid standing on the top cap or the step below the top cap.

Additional Safety Measures:

• When using safety posts or ladder stabilizers, ensure proper attachment and regular inspection according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

• When working at heights requiring fall protection, use ladders with integrated fall arrest systems or attach personal fall arrest systems to secure points.

• Regularly inspect the bottom brackets or feet of the ladder for wear and damage, replacing worn or damaged parts promptly.