Ladders are familiar tools, which is one reason their risks are often underestimated. Many serious falls occur during short-duration tasks when employees choose a ladder instead of a safer work platform or use the wrong ladder for the job.

California rules require ladders to be selected, inspected, maintained, and used for their intended purpose. Scaffolds or other positioning equipment should be used when the work cannot be performed safely from a ladder.

Mistake 1: choosing the wrong ladder
The ladder should be the correct type, duty rating, material, and length for the work. A stepladder should not be leaned against a wall as though it were an extension ladder, and a conductive ladder should not be used where electrical contact is possible.

Employees should not stand on improvised objects to gain extra height or select a ladder that forces them to overreach.

Mistake 2: failing to inspect before use
Rails, rungs, feet, locks, ropes, hardware, labels, and accessories should be checked before use. Damaged ladders should be tagged or otherwise removed from service so another worker does not use them.

Paint, mud, concrete residue, oil, or other contamination can hide defects and create slippery climbing surfaces.

Mistake 3: unstable setup
Ladders should be placed on firm, level, non-slippery surfaces and protected from displacement. Setups near doors, traffic routes, equipment paths, or floor openings require barriers, control of access, or relocation.

Extension ladders should be placed at the proper angle, secured when required, and extend sufficiently above the landing when used for access.

Mistake 4: unsafe climbing and work practices
Workers should maintain secure contact while climbing, face the ladder, keep their body between the side rails, and avoid carrying loads that interfere with balance. Tools and materials can be hoisted or carried in a way that keeps hands available.

Top steps and caps should not be used unless the ladder is specifically designed for that purpose. Employees should never move or shift a ladder while someone is on it.

Mistake 5: using a ladder for work that needs another system
Long-duration, forceful, two-handed, or side-loading tasks may require a scaffold, lift, or platform. The decision should consider the work method, not only the height.

How EA Safety Services can help
EA Safety Services, LLC can conduct ladder audits, provide hands-on training, review purchasing standards, and help supervisors determine when another access or work-positioning system is more appropriate.