Safety
CSIA
csiaonline.org
21
CENTRAL STATES INSULATION ASSOCIATION
Choosing the Right Ladder
A critical component of ladder safety is 
selecting the appropriate ladder for the 
job. There are several types of ladders, 
including step ladders, extension ladders, 
and fixed ladders, each designed for 
specific uses. For example, it is important 
to choose a ladder that is tall enough to 
reach the working height without standing 
on the top rung or step or in some cases 
the top two steps. Ladders must also 
be rated to support the worker’s weight 
plus any tools or materials being carried. 
Weight ratings, often labeled as “duty 
ratings”, should always be checked before 
use. Also, ladders should be made of 
materials suitable for the anticipated work 
environment. For example, nonconductive 
fiberglass ladders should be used when 
working near electrical sources, as metal 
ladders can conduct electricity and increase 
the risk of electrocution.
Inspecting Ladders Before Use
Before using a ladder, workers should 
perform a thorough inspection. This 
includes checking for cracks, dents, loose 
or missing rungs, damaged rails, faulty 
locking mechanisms as well as areas on 
the ladder that may cause a slip (grease, 
water, oils, etc.). Step ladders should open 
fully with spreaders locked in place, and 
extension ladders should have secure 
rope, pulleys and rung locks. Any ladder 
that shows signs of damage must be taken 
out of service immediately and repaired or 
replaced, otherwise, it could result in an 
injury.
Proper Ladder Setup
Proper ladder placement is essential 
for stability and for the safety of the 
employees using them. Ensure ladders are 
placed on firm, level surfaces. If a ladder 
must be used on uneven ground, use the 
appropriate leveling equipment, never use 
improvised solutions like bricks or boards. 
For extension ladders, a general rule is to 
place the base one foot away from the wall 
for every four feet of ladder height. The top 
of the ladder should extend at least three 
feet above the landing surface when used 
to access roofs or elevated work platforms.
Ladders should never be placed in front of 
doors that are not locked or guarded, as 
unexpected opening can cause the ladder 
to fall. Barricades or warning signs should 
be used when ladders are set up in high-
traffic areas.
Safe Climbing and Working Practices
When climbing a ladder, workers should 
always maintain three points of contact. 
Three points of contact is where the 
employee places either two hands and one 
foot or two feet and one hand on the ladder 
at all times. It is very important to face 
the ladder while climbing and descending 
as this will help maintain balance and 
control. Tools and materials should be 
carried using either tool belts or hoisted 
with a rope, as ascending or descending a 
ladder while holding equipment can result 
in a fall. Finally, never have more than one 
person on a ladder as this could stress the 
maximum capacity of the ladder and could 
result in instability, unless the ladder is 
designed for multiple users.
Training and Awareness
Effective ladder safety requires proper 
training and reinforcement. Employees 
should be trained on items such as ladder 
selection, inspection, setup and safe use. 

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