Ladder Safety
Facility and Occupational Safety
Preventing Falls: Essential Ladder Safety Tips for the Workplace
Falls from ladders are a leading cause of workplace injuries and fatalities. The tips below are to ensure proper use and your safety.
Inspect all ladders before and after use
- Look for damaged side rails, rungs and supports.
- Ensure nuts and bolts are tight and that your feet are secure.
- Test the ladder’s stability.
- Check the label to ensure it’s legible and to verify load ratings and construction material.
- Take ladders with structural damage out of service
Ladder Placement
- When using a portable ladder, place it on a level surface and make sure it has non-slip base pads.
Best Practices
- Face ladder and hold side rails with at least once hand when climbing
- Protect base of ladder in busy areas- Keep ladder free of clutter
- Carry tools on a belt or hoist
Contact
Environmental Health and Safety
facoccsafety@groups.purdue.edu
765-494-6371