In this quick-read article, we share practical dos and don’ts to help prevent ladder injuries.
Published on September 12, 2025
Ladders are safe and effective tools—when used properly. Follow these essential safety practices:
Before you climb
Don’t use a ladder if you’re tired, dizzy, or prone to losing balance.
Avoid ladder use during high winds or storms.
Wear clean, slip-resistant shoes. Leather soles aren’t suitable.
Inspect the ladder before each use. Don’t use ladders that are damaged, uneven, or missing parts.
Check the ladder’s duty rating—it must support your weight plus tools and supplies.
Never stand on the top rung or step.
Set up ladders on firm, level ground and avoid slippery surfaces.
Only one person should be on the ladder unless it’s designed for more.
Don’t place ladders in front of doors that open toward them—block, lock, or guard the door.
Read and follow the safety labels on the ladder.
Preventing falls
Falls often result from inattention, poor posture, unsuitable footwear, or faulty ladders. To reduce risk:
Maintain proper posture while climbing.
Keep hands free—use a tool belt.
Move slowly and deliberately.
Never shift or move a ladder while on it.
Avoid leaning or overreaching.
Use three points of contact: two hands and one foot, or two feet and one hand.
Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) requirements
OSHA’s ladder standards include:
Rungs, steps and cleats must be parallel, level, and spaced 10–14 inches apart.
Stepstools must have steps spaced 8–12 inches apart.
Portable ladders must have a minimum clear width of 11.5 inches; stepstools, 10.5 inches.
Wooden ladders must not be coated in materials that hide defects.
Metal ladders must resist corrosion.
Ladder surfaces must be free of puncture or laceration hazards.
Ladders must be used only for their intended purpose.
Inspect ladders before each shift and tag defective ones “Dangerous: Do not use.”
Always face the ladder and use at least one hand when climbing.
Don’t carry items that could cause a loss of balance.
Rungs and steps must be treated to prevent slipping.
Don’t exceed the ladder’s maximum load.
Use ladders only on stable, level surfaces unless secured.
Never move or extend a ladder while someone is on it.
Secure ladders placed in high-traffic areas.
Don’t use the cap or top step of a stepladder as a step.
Secure ladders on slippery surfaces.
Side rails must extend at least 3 feet above the landing surface.
Only use ladders designed to be extended or fastened together.
Don’t place ladders on unstable bases like boxes or barrels.
This is not an exhaustive list of safety tips and OSHA general requirements. Visit the OSHA standard for the complete guidelines. For additional tools on ladder safety, see OSHA fact sheets:
Reducing falls in construction: Safe use of stepladders
Reducing falls in construction: Safe use of job-made wooden ladders
Resources:
Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA, n.d.)
Basic Ladder Safety (American Ladder Institute, n.d.)
