Ladder safety: set it up right

A ladder is a work platform of last resort. Most ladder incidents trace back to the set-up, not the ladder itself.

Key points

• Set the ladder on firm, level footing and make it long enough for the job.
• A non-self-supporting ladder should lean at about 75 degrees from horizontal (roughly one unit out for every four up).
• When the ladder is used to reach an upper landing it should extend about 1 m (3 ft) above that landing, and be secured so it cannot move.
• Do not carry heavy or bulky items up or down a ladder. Hoist them or use another method.
• If the work cannot be done safely from a ladder, use a work platform instead.
• Face the ladder and keep three points of contact (two hands and a foot, or two feet and a hand).

Ask the crew

• Is there a safer way to do this task than a ladder?
• Who checks the ladder for damage before use?
• Where will we secure it today?

Sign-off sheet

The PDF includes a sign-off sheet with date, location, presenter and nine signature lines. Print it, run the talk and keep the signed copy with your site safety records.

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