Step Up Your Safety: Essential Ladder Topics for National Ladder Safety Month
Author, Jadyn Brandt, Client Communications Coordinator, Rancho Mesa Insurance Services, Inc.
March is national ladder safety month. While worker safety should be a priority all year long, this month is a reminder of the dangers associated with ladders in the workplace. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) reports falls are a leading cause of death in the construction industry. A fall prevention plan and thorough ladder safety training can help protect workers from injury and prevent fatalities.
Following a few basic ladder safety rules can also ensure a safer work environment.
1. Choose the right ladder for the job
Make sure you are using the appropriate ladder for the task at hand. The ladder will need to be able to support the weight of anyone using it, plus the added weight of tools and materials. The ladder must also be tall enough so that a person can work from it without climbing onto the top three feet.
2. Thoroughly inspect the ladder before use
Before using the ladder, ensure there is no damage or missing parts. All bolts, screws, and hinges should be secure and there should be no broken or damaged rungs. The rungs or steps of a ladder should be clean of any oil, grease, or paint to prevent slips while climbing. If there is any damage to the ladder, it should not be used for work.
3. Set up the ladder in a safe area
It’s important to place your ladder on a level surface and away from any electrical wiring. If working in an area where people might be walking by, create a barrier around the base of the ladder to redirect traffic. If the ladder is placed in front of or near a door, block off the door. Be sure to keep ladders at least 10 feet away from power lines.
4. Exercise caution when using a ladder
Be sure to maintain three-point contact when using a ladder; you should never have more than one hand or foot off the ladder at any time. When using the ladder, do not lean over the side railings or move or extend the ladder while a person is on it. Use a tool belt to carry equipment so that your hands are free at all times when ascending and descending.
Regular training for employees and frequent ladder inspections can help reduce the risk of any falls or injuries and ensure workers are prepared for ladder use on a jobsite. Rancho Mesa clients can utilize SafetyOne’s Ladder Safety online training, and the mobile app’s built-in ladder observation to document inspections, any issues that are found and corrective actions.
Toolbox talks for ladder safety, proper usage, types of ladders, and more are available through the SafetyOne™ platform and can be used to train workers on safe ladder use.
For more information, register today for Rancho Mesa’s ladder safety workshop at our Mission Valley office in San Diego, CA on March 21st, 2025