Using ladders correctly prevents serious injuries from falls, strains and awkward movement. Falls from ladders account for 80% of all traumatic head injuries reported in the construction sector.
- Always ensure the ladder is in good condition, defective or damaged ladders must be red-tagged and removed from service
- Is this the right tool for the job? Would a work platform or scaffold be safer?
- Three points of contact with the ladder must be maintained.  2 feet + 1 hand or 2 hands +1 foot.
- While ascending or descending the ladder worker must always face the ladder.
- Ladders must only be erected on clean level surfaces; extension ladders must be anchored at the top and bottom, with a 3-foot overhang at the top.
- Standing on the top two rungs of a ladder is prohibited at all times.
- Reaching far out while completing tasks is prohibited, take the time to move the ladder into a safe working position.