Ladder Use Done Right: How to Prevent Accidents on the Job

Ladders may seem simple, but they can send you crashing down if you’re not careful.

Ladders are everywhere, from construction sites to office supply closets. Whether you’re reaching for a lightbulb or scaling a multi-story building, choosing the right ladder and using it correctly is the difference between a job well done and an ER visit

Safety culture starts with choosing the right ladder and actually maintaining it.

Ladders aren’t one-size-fits-all. You wouldn’t use a step stool to paint a skyscraper, so why risk using the wrong ladder for your task? Here’s a breakdown of ladder types and when to use them

Step stools

Perfect for small indoor tasks like changing light bulbs or grabbing items off high shelves. They fold up for easy storage and must follow OSHA’s 8–12 inch step-spacing rule to keep things steady

Step ladders

These A-frame beauties are great for ceiling repairs, painting, or hanging decorations. Some have steps on both sides, making them ideal for two-person jobs

Platform ladders

Need a stable standing surface? Platform ladders come with a built-in standing area and safety rail so you’re not performing a balancing act while working at height

Extension ladders

If you need to reach rooftops or paint exteriors, these adjustable ladders are your best bet. Many models come with pulley systems to make setup a breeze

Multi-position ladders

A jack-of-all-trades ladder that converts into step ladders, extension ladders, and even scaffolding. Perfect for uneven surfaces like staircases

Rolling or portable scaffolds

Need a large work platform with mobility? These ladders have wheels and guardrails, making them ideal for construction or maintenance work that requires frequent movement

Fixed ladders

Bolted to buildings, these are commonly found on fire escapes, manholes, and rooftops. Regular maintenance is key, rust and broken rungs make these death traps

Not all ladders are built the same, so know your material and weight limits.

Materials matter

• Aluminum: Lightweight, rust-resistant, and great for general use, but a big no-no near electricity
• Wood: Non-conductive (when dry), cost-effective, but heavy and prone to wear
• Steel: Strong and heavy-duty but needs corrosion protection
• Fiberglass: The best for electrical work, non-conductive, durable, and weather-resistant

Weight capacity ratings

Ladders are graded by how much weight they can handle, including you, your tools, and anything you’re hauling

• Type IAA: 375 pounds
• Type IA: 300 pounds
• Type I: 250 pounds
• Type II: 225 pounds
• Type III: 200 pounds

Always check the rating, don’t assume your ladder is ready to hold a person plus 50 pounds of gear

Proper ladder use isn’t optional if you want to stay in one piece.

General safety tips

• Pick the right ladder: Match the ladder type, material, and weight rating to your task
• Set it up correctly: Stable, dry ground only, no wobbling allowed
• One person at a time: Unless specified otherwise, ladders aren’t for sharing
• Keep doors in check: Never place a ladder in front of an unlocked door
• Wear proper shoes: Slip-resistant footwear keeps you steady

The three-point-of-contact rule

Keep either two hands and one foot or two feet and one hand on the ladder at all times

• Face forward: Always face the rungs while climbing
• Move carefully: No rushing, no skipping rungs
• Use a tool belt: Free up your hands, don’t climb while carrying items
• Don’t overreach: If you have to stretch, reposition the ladder

Portable ladder requirements

• Use only on stable surfaces
• Never move or extend while in use
• Top must extend at least 3 feet above upper landings
• Follow the 4-to-1 rule: For every 4 feet of height, place the base 1 foot away from the wall

Fixed ladder requirements

• Over 24 feet? You need a personal fall arrest system (PFAS)
• Grab bars must extend 42 inches above the landing for stability
• Inspect regularly for missing rungs, rust, or cracks

Ladder-related injuries still happen because of avoidable mistakes.

Here’s what not to do:

• Overloading: Exceeding weight limits leads to collapses
• Using the wrong material: Aluminum near electricity is causing trouble
• Skipping inspections: Damaged ladders are accidents waiting to happen
• Bad climbing habits: No standing on the top rung, no skipping the three-point rule

Expand your knowledge with ladder safety training.

This course introduces Workplace Safety: Using Ladders Safely, but there’s always more to learn. For a deeper dive into ladder types, materials, and advanced safety protocols, enroll in our Ladder Safety Training Course

References

• Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) – Ladders Safety Regulations
• National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) – Preventing Falls in the Workplace
• American National Standards Institute (ANSI) – Mobile Ladders and Ladder Stands Safety Standards