Ladders are used daily in public works for tasks like building maintenance, tree work, sign installation, equipment access, and facility repairs. Misuse or poor ladder condition can result in falls, sprains, fractures, and struck-by injuries. This guide provides supervisors with simple steps to teach crews how to choose, inspect, set up, and use ladders safely.
By the end of this training, workers should be able to:
• Identify common ladder hazards.
• Select the correct ladder for height, task, and weight rating.
• Inspect ladders for defects before each use.
• Set up ladders at the correct angle on stable surfaces.
• Maintain three points of contact while climbing.
• Recognize unsafe conditions and know when not to use a ladder.
• A-frame step ladder
• Extension ladder
• Examples of damaged ladders (if available)
• Handout of ladder inspection checklist
• PPE as required by job tasks (hard hat, safety shoes, safety glasses)
"Good morning everyone. Today we are covering ladder safety. We use ladders for many tasks, and a simple mistake can lead to a serious fall. This training will show you how to pick the right ladder, check it for problems, set it up correctly, and use it safely. Ladder accidents are preventable when we slow down, follow the basics, and look out for each other."
• Falls due to improper angle or unstable footing
• Overreaching and losing balance
• Ladder collapse due to damage or overload
• Using the wrong type of ladder for the task
• Electrical shock from metal ladders near power lines
• Slip hazards from wet rungs or muddy boots
Choose the correct type of ladder for the task. Avoid makeshift ladders.
Check the ladder’s weight rating and load capacity before use.
Inspect ladders for cracks, bent rungs, loose rivets, broken locks, and missing feet.
Place extension ladders at a four to one angle. For every four feet of rise, set the base one foot away.
Ensure the top and bottom contact points are stable. Use ladder levelers or footing if needed.
Keep the ladder clear of doorways, vehicle paths, and pedestrians. Use barricades when necessary.
Maintain three points of contact while climbing.
Do not carry tools in your hands. Use tool belts or hoist lines.
Never stand on the top cap or top rung of a ladder.
Do not move a ladder while someone is on it.
In windy, icy, or unstable conditions, postpone the task or use alternative access equipment.
• Show how to inspect a ladder from top to bottom.
• Demonstrate proper placement of an extension ladder at the correct angle.
• Demonstrate safe climbing with three points of contact.
• Show how to secure an extension ladder at the top.
• Demonstrate how to hoist tools instead of carrying them.
• Have crew members identify defects on a demonstration ladder.
• Allow workers to practice setting up an extension ladder at the correct angle.
• Ask volunteers to demonstrate safe climbing technique.
• Provide three short job scenarios and ask the crew to choose the correct ladder type.
• What ladder problems have you seen in the field?
• How do you know when a ladder is unsafe and should be tagged out?
• What are some alternatives when a ladder cannot be used safely?
• Why is overreaching such a common cause of accidents?
Insert your agency’s ladder inspection policy, equipment replacement rules, reporting procedures, and any additional local safety requirements related to ladder use.
• Hard hat
• Safety footwear with slip resistant soles
• Work gloves when handling ladders
• Safety glasses when working overhead or near debris
• High visibility vest when working near roadways or vehicle traffic
• Use the right ladder for the job and confirm weight rating.
• Inspect ladders before every use.
• Set up ladders on stable ground and at the proper angle.
• Maintain three points of contact and avoid overreaching.
• Do not use damaged or unsafe ladders under any circumstances.
What is the correct angle for setting up an extension ladder?
a. Two to one
b. Four to one
c. Six to one
Name one sign that a ladder should be removed from service.
(Short answer)
What is the minimum number of contact points you should maintain while climbing?
a. One
b. Two
c. Three
Why should tools never be carried in your hands while climbing a ladder?
(Short answer)
True or False: It is acceptable to move a ladder while someone is standing on it.
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