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A roofer wearing fall protection climbs a ladder.

Step up to safety: Prevent ladder accidents on the job

Falls are the leading cause of death in construction, and many of these incidents involve ladders. Before your next climb, check out these tips to help keep you and your coworkers safe when working at heights.

Esta información también está disponible en español.


Yellow, black, and white banner which reads, "Top 10 OSHA Violations."

Why ladder safety matters: OSHA's top violations

After highlighting ladder safety, it's important to remember why these precautions matter. Falls and unsafe ladder use aren't just common causes of injuries. Year after year, they continue to lead OSHA's list of top workplace violations. In 2024, the two most frequently cited OSHA standards relevant to ladder safety were 1926.501 (Fall Protection – General Requirements) and 1926.1053 (Ladders). Here’s the full current list of OSHA's ten most frequently cited standards:

  1. Fall Protection - General Requirements (1926.501): 6,827 violations.
  2. Hazard Communication (1910.1200): 3,121 violations.
  3. Ladders, construction (1926.1053): 2,789 violations.
  4. Respiratory Protection (1910.134): 2,698 violations.
  5. Control of Hazardous Energy (Lockout/Tagout) (1910.147): 2,655 violations.
  6. Powered Industrial Trucks (1910.178) 2,440 violations.
  7. Fall Protection Training (1926.503): 2,243 violations.
  8. Scaffolding (1926.451): 1,959 violations.
  9. Eye and Face Protection (1926.102): 1,929 violations.
  10. Machine Guarding (1910.212): 1,676 violations.

The cost of these violations goes beyond injuries. OSHA's maximum penalties are $16,550 per serious violation, and up to $165,514 for each willful or repeated violation. Following industry safety best practices isn't only about preventing injuries. It's also about avoiding the most common and costly workplace safety violations. Taking safety seriously protects your team — and your bottom line.


Beside a hard hat and ear protection are the words, "30-Hour OSHA Training."

Take your safety skills to the next level with OSHA 30-hour construction training!

Ready to become a workplace safety leader? Our OSHA 30-Hour Construction Course gives you the knowledge and credentials to move your career forward while helping to protect yourself and your coworkers. This hands-on training is designed for Texas residents and employees who work in the state.

Why choose our OSHA 30-Hour Construction Course?

  • Expert instruction: Learn from OSHA-authorized instructors with extensive industry experience.
  • Comprehensive curriculum: Cover essential OSHA standards, requirements, and safety awareness techniques.
  • Interactive learning: Engage in hands-on activities and discussions to reinforce your understanding.
  • Career advancement: Receive an OSHA 30-Hour Construction Course completion card within eight weeks.

Course details:

  • Course length: Five-day intensive program.
  • Class times: 8:00 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
  • Language: Available in English or Spanish. Participants must speak fluently in the language of instruction.
  • Cost: $30 per participant.

Register now for upcoming in-person sessions:

September 2025

October 2025

November 2025

December 2025

For more information or to register, contact:

Don't wait! Spots fill fast!


The Lone Star Safety Program logo sets beside a hard hat.

The Lone Star Safety Award: Recognizing excellence in Texas workplace safety

Is your company leading the way in workplace safety? The Lone Star Safety Award Program recognizes Texas employers who demonstrate a strong commitment to protecting their employees and maintaining exemplary safety programs. If your organization prioritizes safety, this is your opportunity to be recognized.

You can nominate your company or another organization that stands out for its dedication to safety. Award recipients receive:

  • Public recognition and one complimentary registration to DWC’s annual Texas Workers’ Compensation Conference.
  • Three complimentary admissions to an OSHA 10-hour general industry class, or one customized onsite training session.
  • A certificate, banner, and decal for display at your workplace.
  • A press release sent to local media and Texas legislators.
  • A digital award seal for use on your website, social media, and marketing materials.
  • Opportunities to share your best practices and inspire others in the industry.

Let’s celebrate companies that make safety a priority in Texas. Apply now or nominate a deserving organization.

For more information, visit the DWC Lone Star Safety Program webpage or contact HealthSafety@tdi.texas.gov or call 512-804-4622.


Blue banner with white lettering that reads, "Texas Workers' Compensation Conference."

Texas Workers' Compensation Conference: Decode comp. Improve outcomes.

Join us September 29-30 in San Marcos for the Texas Workers' Compensation Conference: Decoding Comp. This year we explore some of the more complex aspects of workers' compensation. Registration is $600.

Get the latest on:

  • Managing workers' compensation outcomes using data analytics.
  • Concussion, brain injury, and mental disorders.
  • The role of artificial intelligence in workers' compensation.
  • Ethics of confidentiality.
  • Workplace violence preparedness.
  • And more!

Visit our conference webpage to learn more.