Spring 2025

10 Rules of Ladder Safety

Ladders are essential tools in both professional and household settings, but they also present significant risks when used improperly. According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), falls from ladders are one of the leading causes of workplace injuries and fatalities. Whether you’re a construction worker, DIY enthusiast, or just using a ladder to change a lightbulb, understanding and following ladder safety rules is crucial. Below are 10 Rules of Ladder Safety, designed to help prevent accidents and ensure a safe and secure ladder experience.

1. Inspect Ladder Before Use

Before climbing any ladder, always perform a thorough inspection. Look for signs of damage such as cracks, bent rungs, or loose hardware. Ensure the ladder is free of oil, grease, or other slippery substances that could lead to falls. Check that the ladder's feet are intact and not worn down. Never use a damaged ladder, and always repair or replace it as needed.

2. Use the Right Ladder for the Job

Ladders come in various sizes and materials such as fiberglass, aluminum, and wood. Each type is suited for different tasks. Ensure you select the appropriate ladder for the work you are doing. For instance, avoid using an aluminum ladder near electrical sources, as it may conduct electricity. Choose a ladder with the proper height to reach your work area without standing on the top rungs or overreaching.

3. Position Ladder on Stable Ground

A ladder’s stability is paramount. Always place your ladder on firm, level ground. Never place it on uneven surfaces, soft soil, or slippery conditions. If working on an inclined or uneven surface is unavoidable, use ladder levelers or adjustable feet to stabilize it. Ensure the area around the base of the ladder is clear of obstacles that might cause you to lose balance.

4. Follow the 4-to-1 Rule for Extension Ladders

For extension ladders, the proper angle of placement is critical. Use the 4-to-1 rule: for every 4 feet of height you are climbing, the base of the ladder should be 1 foot away from the wall. This ensures the ladder is at the correct angle, preventing tipping or slipping.

5. Maintain Three Points of Contact

When using a ladder, always face the ladder and maintain three points of contact—two hands and one foot, or two feet and one hand. This ensures maximum stability and reduces the likelihood of losing your balance. Never carry tools or materials in your hands while climbing; use a tool belt or hoist the items after securing yourself.

6. Never Overreach

Overreaching is one of the most common causes of ladder accidents. Always keep your body centered within the ladder’s side rails. If you need to reach an area that’s out of your comfortable reach, descend the ladder and move it instead of trying to stretch or lean too far. This maintains balance and reduces the risk of a fall.

7. Don't Use a Ladder in High Winds or Storms

Avoid using a ladder in adverse weather conditions, particularly in high winds or storms. Wind can destabilize the ladder and make it more prone to tipping. Additionally, wet conditions can make ladder surfaces slippery. If you must use a ladder in inclement weather, ensure the conditions are safe and the ladder is properly secured.

8. Secure Your Ladder

When working at height, always ensure your ladder is secure. If possible, have a second person hold the ladder steady at the base while you work. In high-traffic areas, or when working on elevated platforms, secure the ladder at the top to prevent it from sliding or tipping.

9. Never Climb or Stand on Top Rungs or Steps

The top two steps of a stepladder and the top three rungs of a straight ladder are not designed for climbing or standing. They are typically labeled with a warning to avoid standing on them, as doing so compromises your balance. Always avoid leaning too far.

10. Follow Manufacturer’s Guidelines

Always read and follow the manufacturer's instructions for your ladder. This includes the weight limits, proper usage instructions, and any safety warnings. Ladders are designed with specific functions and limits in mind, and ignoring these guidelines can lead to accidents.

Conclusion

Ladder accidents are avoidable if the proper safety precautions are followed. By adhering to these 10 Rules of Ladder Safety, workers and homeowners alike can significantly reduce the risk of injury. Always ensure you inspect, position, and use your ladder with care. It is the responsibility of everyone to prioritize safety and to make ladder safety a non-negotiable part of any project.

Bibliography

1. U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). "Ladder Safety." OSHA.gov Accessed January 2025.
2. National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH). "Preventing Falls: A Guide to Ladder Safety." CDC.gov Accessed January 2025.
3. American Ladder Institute. "Ladder Safety." AmericanLadderInstitute.org Accessed January 2025.
4. U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. "Ladder Safety: Tips to Prevent Injuries." CPSC.gov Accessed January 2025.
5. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). "Safety and Health Topics: Fall Protection." OSHA.gov Accessed January 2025.
   
   

OSHA Updates – Enforcing Proper Fit for Personal Protective Equipment

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration has made an update to its Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) standard for the construction industry 29 CFR 1926.95.

This new rule clarifies that PPE must fit workers correctly. OSHA aims to enhance the understanding of its PPE requirements and align the standards for construction with those in general industry. The revised rule addresses ongoing issues related to poorly fitting equipment and its effects on worker safety.

PPE such as hard hats, gloves, high-visibility vests, safety glasses, and fall protection harnesses are crucial for minimizing exposure to hazards. When PPE does not fit well, it can increase risks and may discourage workers from using the necessary gear. This final rule clearly states the fitting requirement, ensuring that all workers have access to suitable PPE.

OSHA will keep enforcing the need for well-fitting PPE in construction, just as it does in other industries, using the enforcement guidance it has already established. In addition to OSHA's guidance, consensus standards and manufacturer instructions can assist employers in ensuring their workers' PPE fits correctly to comply with the rule.

To ensure proper fit for PPE, choose PPE that is the right size for the wearer, not too loose or too tight. Utilize straps, buckles, and other adjustable features to customize the fit. Perform a quick check to ensure the PPE covers all necessary areas without any gaps or loose sections. Always look at the manufacturer's guidelines for detailed fitting instructions for each PPE item.

Safety glasses need to fit well on the face, with the arms resting securely behind the ears to avoid any gaps. Gloves should be snug and smooth, covering the whole hand and wrist without any folds. A hard hat should be level on the head, with the straps adjusted to keep it in place. Respiratory protection must fit tightly around the face, with no air leaks, ensuring it sits properly against the skin.

Employers must train every worker who needs to use personal protective equipment on the following:

• When PPE is needed
• What type is needed
• How to correctly put it on, adjust, wear, and remove it
• The limitations of the equipment
• How to care for, maintain, and dispose of the equipment properly.

The final rule emphasizes that employers share the responsibility to provide all workers with properly-sized PPE, which OSHA believes will improve safety at construction sites. More details on the updated rule can be found in the Federal Register.

Power Washer Safety: Tips for Safe Use

Using a power washer can make cleaning tasks easier and more efficient, but it also comes with its own set of safety risks. Whether you're washing your driveway, siding, or equipment, it’s essential to follow safety guidelines to prevent injuries or damage.

First, always wear protective gear, such as safety goggles, gloves, and sturdy footwear. The high-pressure water stream can cause serious injuries if it contacts skin, so it’s crucial to keep a safe distance and avoid pointing the nozzle at yourself or others.

Before use, inspect the power washer for any signs of wear, ensuring hoses and connections are secure. Be aware of the electric or gas-powered model you're using and follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully to prevent accidents.

When operating the power washer, keep the nozzle at a 45-degree angle and start with a low-pressure setting to get used to the power. Never leave the power washer unattended while running, and always disconnect the power source when not in use. It is also important to never pick up the spray gun by the nozzle. This helps prevent the trigger mechanism from inadvertently being engaged.

Lastly, be mindful of slippery surfaces when working with water, and never use a power washer on unstable ladders or elevated surfaces without adequate fall protection. With proper precautions, you can safely enjoy the benefits of a power washer without any risks.

Make Your Workplace Safer: Sign Up for a Free On-Site Consultation

The On-Site Safety and Health Consultation Program can help make your workplace safer and avoid OSHA penalties. This service is designed for small employers (less than 250 employees on-site, no more than 500 employees nationwide) in high hazard industries. 

Our safety and health consultants provide an OSHA-type “mock” inspection at the workplace, for free and without assessing any fines or penalties. (OSHA fines for serious hazards in Missouri now average $4,735 per serious hazard.) The employer sets the scope of the visit, so the consultation may be limited to a specific work area, work phase, or can include the entire workplace. Your only obligation is to correct the hazards identified by the consultant.

During the walkthrough, the consultant will identify and discuss any potential hazards and suggest the best and most cost-effective solutions. Consultants also can provide training and assistance in the preparation of site-specific written safety and health programs. SIGN UP TODAY!

Click here to view this email in a web browser.