Inspect ladders for damage before use and do not use damaged ladders. Only use ladders suited for the task and do not use unstable objects to increase height. Maintain three points of contact when climbing, do not climb higher than the second rung on stepladders or third rung on straight or extension ladders, and do not exceed the ladder's weight rating. Falls from ladders are a leading cause of occupational injuries.

1. Use Ladders Safely
Safety Moment of the Week
April 9th – 15th, 2017
Ladder safety tips:
• Before using any ladder, inspect it. If the ladder is damaged, it must be removed
from service and tagged until repaired or discarded.
• Make sure the ladder is suited for the type of job you plan to do.
• Do not place a ladder on boxes, barrels or other unstable bases to obtain additional
height.
• Always maintain 3-point (two hands and a foot, or two feet and a hand) contact
on the ladder when climbing. Keep your body near the middle of the step and
always face the ladder while climbing.
• Do not climb higher than the second rung on stepladders or the third rung on
straight or extension ladders.
• Do not exceed the maximum load rating of a ladder. Be aware of the ladder’s
load rating and of the weight it is supporting, including the weight of any
tools or equipment.
Ladder Injuries - Falls from portable ladders (step, straight, combination and extension) are one of
the leading causes of occupational fatalities and injuries.