Falls are one of the leading causes of injuries to construction workers in the US. Many people still sustain back injuries because of improperly carrying and setting up ladders. Key drivers for safe ladder usage involve choosing the right ladder for the job, inspecting the ladder before each use, and ensuring proper set-up and usage of the ladder.

Lock Jaw Ladder Grip - Ladder Safety Product

A ladder accessory can help you to reduce risks associated with ladder stability. A ladder safety device is usually applied to prevent movement of the ladder by either securing the ladder, locking the ladder, or providing a better grip. This can help you to increase stabilization and to comply with safety standards.

Falls from ladders, both in occupational and nonoccupational environments, frequently result in significant injury. According to the Academic Emergency Medicine Journal, simple safety measures could have prevented most falls. Public health efforts should emphasize education on safe ladder practices and techniques to reduce the possibility of injury in the event of a fall.

Creating a culture of safety on site is important for staying safe at work and for sharing information about specific recurring issues such as ladder safety. Also, the best way to reduce the risk of injury from falling is to plan before using a ladder including stepladders.

Please, keep in mind the following is a brief list of some items to implement when using a ladder:

• Use only ladders that comply with OSHA design standards

• Choose the right type of ladder for the job, stepladder, or straight ladder, and do not apply more weight on the ladder than it is designed to support (including the user, tools, and materials).

• Inspect the ladder before each use using the Ladder Inspection Checklist on the OSHA website .

• Set the ladder on a stable surface and secure the ladder from movement when applicable.

• Set the ladder up using the 4-to-1 rule. For every four feet in height, set the base one foot out.

• Keep the area around the top and bottom of the ladder clear of obstructions.

• Do not set up the ladder in an area such as a doorway or walkway unless barriers protect these areas. Always face the ladder and maintain at least three points of contact when ascending or descending.

• Keep your body centred between rails. Do not overreach. Read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

• Follow all safe work practices and ensure that proper safeguards are in place when using ladders around energized electrical equipment or power lines.

For additional information on ladder safety, visit www.OSHA.gov.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. In the U.S., over 500.000 people are treated each year for ladder-related injuries. Ladder safety statistics show that up to 300 people die per year consequence of ladder falls. Moreover, about one-third of these ladder-related deaths arise from work-related ladder falls.

The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health points out that there are five major causes for ladder fall incidents:

Incorrect extension ladder setup angle

Ladder users tend to set extension ladders at shallower angles than the optimal desired angle (75 degrees).

Inappropriate ladder selection

The selection of a ladder with a precise duty rating is also important to avoid structural failure. However, many ladder users lack knowledge of proper ladder selection.

Insufficient ladder inspection

You can decrease the probability of ladder structural failure by practicing frequent inspection and maintenance.

Improper ladder use

Activities such as overreaching, moving objects, applying disproportionate force, slips, and missteps are also frequent causes of ladder-related fall injuries.

Lack of access to ladder safety tools and information

Small companies that account for up to 80% of all construction companies, and individual ladder users, such as homeowners, do not usually receive the required training for safe use of portable ladders. So, ladder users often do not have access to safety information and generally, they lack the resources to develop or follow an effective ladder safety program.

Extension ladders

When using extension ladders, always obey the 4-1 rule, meaning set the base of the ladder one foot away from the base of the building for every four feet of height. In addition, secure the ladder at the top and (when possible) at the bottom. You can use a ladder stabilizer to increase your ladder stability. After fitting relevant safety stabilizers, check that the ladder is locked into place before ascending and always, whether ascending or descending, check the ladder’s stability prior to placing your weight on it. Do not ever move or adjust a ladder while somebody is on it. Always remember to check OSHA standards and regulations. Keep in mind that if the ladder is unsafe, then nothing that you do on that ladder can be done safely.

Portable ladder safety tips