OSHA Regulations for Ladder Climbing

Ladders are a major source of injuries in construction and other industries. The main cause of falls from ladders is because a ladder base slides. Tipping is another cause

OSHA Standards for the safe use of ladders applies to all industries in which ladders are used.

Causes of Injuries

• The main cause of falls from ladders is because a ladder base slides. Tipping sideways is another cause of accidents, and is reported to be the main cause of injury in the use of stepladders. Improper use of ladders by workers is also a large cause of accidents.

Ladder Types for Workers

• In construction and similar work, three main types of ladders are used: stepladders, extension ladders and multi-purpose.

  Ladders for indoor use are usually stepladders or mulit-purpose ladders. The multi-purpose ladders can be positioned in a variety of ways to accommodate the type of work being done.

  Outdoor work usually calls for longer stepladders or various sizes of extension ladders.
  Many companies provide fiberglass ladders for safety around power lines. However, in adverse conditions, even fiberglass or wood ladders can conduct electricity. Multi-purpose ladders are used in outdoor work, but certain specifications are required by OSHA, depending on the type of work and the area in which the job will be performed.

Inspect the Ladder and Area

• Workers, as well as supervisors, should inspect ladders before use and periodically during the work.
  Check the rungs, side rails, feet and all bolts and other fasteners. Remove or clean any moisture or oily places on the ladder. Always use a ladder with the correct capacity for weight, including body and all equipment attached to body or tool belt.

Setting Up a Ladder for Work

• For maximum safety, use two people to set up a ladder. Keep ladders and tolls ten feet from power lines and other hazards or obstructions.

  Ladders must be set on level ground, or must be leveled with approved levelers. Tie down a ladder that does not have slip-resistant feet. Tie the top of the ladder securely if workers will be getting off and on a roof from that ladder.

  Extension ladders must be locked, overlapping the extension layers according to the height of the ladder.

  Stepladders should always have all four legs placed on level and solid ground or surface. Lock the stepladder in fully-open position.

Safe Ladder Climbing

• Safe climbing techniques will help prevent accidents.

  To prevent slipping, OSHA mandates that workers wear work shoes with slip-resistant soles.

  To prevent falls, always face the ladder and maintain a three-point contact (two hands and one foot or two feet and one hand), and don't hold objects in hands.

  To prevent tipping, center body between sides of ladder when climbing, don't climb up or down sides of a ladder and don't slide down a ladder. Secure a ladder with ties, or have someone hold the ladder. Don't use a ladder in strong winds.