Ladder Safety is Your Responsibility

The Centers for Disease Prevention and Control (CDC) report that each year in the U.S., over half a million people receive treatment for ladder-related injuries, and approximately 300 people die from these injuries. The estimated annual cost of ladder injuries in the U.S. is $24 billion, including work loss, medical, legal, liability, and pain and suffering expenses. A ladder is a simple tool that helps you reach places you cannot otherwise access. An accident involving a ladder can put you on the sideline for an extended period.

Before you grab one and climb, it’s important to consider any safety information. To ensure you stay safe, follow these essential ladder safety rules, which guide correctly choosing, inspecting, and using ladders correctly.

1. Always face the ladder when ascending and descending.
2. While working, always have one hand to grasp the ladder.
3. Never stand on the last step and the top cap of a step ladder.
4. Don’t move, shift, or extend a ladder while you are on it.
5. Never overextend your reach.
6. Stay aware of your actions so you do not lose your balance.

Safety is paramount when using ladders for any task, and understanding the proper techniques can prevent accidents and injuries. The acronym CLIMB serves as a helpful guide to remember essential ladder safety practices. Each letter in CLIMB represents a key aspect of using ladders safely:

• C – Choose the right ladder for the task at hand. 
• L – Look for damage or missing parts.
• I – Install the ladder on a stable and level surface.
• M – Move carefully using the three points of contact.
• B – Be safe and not a statistic.

Ladder safety is essential for preventing injuries and ensuring tasks are completed without incident. Each person bears responsibility for their safety when using ladders. Exercising caution and adhering to established guidelines can significantly reduce the risk of ladder-related accidents. Follow this comprehensive checklist to ensure that you are using ladders safely and responsibly:

• Select the correct ladder for the job (e.g., extension versus stepladder).
• Inspect the ladder at the beginning of your work shift.
• Install the ladder on a level surface.
• Use the proper extension ladder setup angle.
• Set up the ladder correctly and securely.
• Use fall protection as required by the job task.
• Climb and descend ladders slowly, using both hands.

Nobody wants to be a ladder-fall statistic, be laid up, unable to work, or worse. The next time you need a ladder to perform a task, remember these safety tips. Your safety on a ladder starts with you!