Good Afternoon,

This month we would like to highlight the importance of Ladder Safety and etiquette. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that falls from ladders are one of the most common injuries suffered by American workers each year. Most of these incidents occur due to improper ladder use. The most important part of ladder safety is choosing the right ladder for the job.

Stepladders vary in size and range anywhere from 3 feet to 20 feet in length. If it is shorter than 3 feet, it is considered a step stool. Whenever you plan for a job, you should factor in the maximum work height. You can determine this by adding your height and reach to the highest standing level of the stepladder.

Single ladders are non-self-supporting portable ladders that are not adjustable in length. They consist of only one section and can be up to 24 feet long. Never have more than one person on a single ladder at a given time. You might consider using a single ladder for activities such as roofing.

Articulated Ladders are portable ladders that have one or more pairs of locking hinges allowing you to set the ladder up in several configurations, such as a single or extension ladder, stepladder, trestle ladder, scaffold or worktable.

Combination Ladders are portable ladders capable of being used as stepladders, or single or extension ladders. You may also find combination ladders than can be used as a trestle ladder or as a stairwell ladder. When using this type of ladder, you can use spreaders or a locking device to securely hold the front and rear sections in the open position.

Extension Ladders are non-self-supporting portable ladders that are adjustable in length. You will find that they are comprised of two or more sections that travel in guides or brackets to allow length adjustment. Never have more than one person on an extension ladder at a given time and make sure it extends three (3) feet past the point of support.

Extension Trestle Ladders are self-supporting portable ladders that can be adjusted. They are made from a trestle ladder base and a vertically adjustable extension section that can lock the ladders together. Never have more than one person on an extension trestle ladder at a given time.

Fixed Ladders are non-self-supporting ladders that are not adjustable and permanently attached to a structure. They range from 60 degrees to 90 degrees in pitch from the horizontal. Never use a fixed ladder with a pitch greater than 90 degrees. That is not permitted.

Job-made Ladders are custom-made to fit specific job situations. They are temporary in nature and serve only until a particular phase of work is completed or until permanent stairways or fixed ladders are ready for use.

Mobile Ladder Stands are movable, fixed height, self-supporting ladders consisting of wide flat treads in the form of steps which give access to a top step. You may have to assemble and/or install handrails prior to using a mobile ladder stand.

Listed below are some of the common safety set ups involved with ladder usage: 

• Inspect ladders before each use for loose or damaged steps, rungs, spreaders and safety feet. If any of these are damaged, remove and tag the ladder for inspection to be repaired or discarded.
• Don’t place ladders in front of a door that isn’t locked, blocked or guarded. 
• Check all locks on extension ladders are properly engaged.
• Place your ladder on a level and firm steady surface. Straight, single or extension ladders should be set up at an angle of 75 degrees. 
• Make sure your weight doesn’t exceed the maximum load rating (one person at a time), the weight of tools should be accounted for in this measurement.
• Keep your body centered at all times with 3-points (Two hands and a foot, or two feet and a hand) at all times. 
• Don't step on the top step or bucket shelf, or the rear section of a stepladder. Don’t overextend your reach, take the time to reposition the ladder. 
• Never leave a raised ladder unattended.
• Refrain from "walking the ladder" to get to your next area of work
• Never use a metal ladder near power lines or exposed energized electrical equipment.
• Never place a ladder on unstable objects (boxes, wood blocks, barrels, etc.) to obtain extra height.
• Only use ladders for their intended design.

Throughout the years, ladder technology has developed greatly. For example, Otto Tech Systems, a company that specializes in ladder features, combines innovative technology and real-time alerts to revolutionize worksite safety. Some features include embedded sensors which can instantly alert users when they are in an unsafe situation, built-in communication modules, hard-wired technology to be water resistant and to withstand shock from rough working conditions, and rugged feet designed to allow sensors to withstand shock from drops and heavy handling. If you would like to learn more about these technologies, a link will be attached below. 

As useful and efficient as ladders are in our industry, they pose special safety hazards. By practicing these guidelines, and by making sure you are using the right ladder for the job, worksite injuries and deaths caused by ladder misuse can be significantly reduced.  

More Resources Regarding Ladder Safety and Equipment:

Otto Tech Systems

Ladder Safety

What Type of Ladders Should Be Used During Electrical Work

OSHA: Safe Use of Stepladders

OSHA Portable Ladder Safety Quick Card



There are several toolbox talks on this topic in the Safety Meeting app.

We encourage anyone interested in participating in the NYECA Safety Committee to reach out to evangelista@nyeca.org.

The next Safety Committee meeting will take place via Zoom on Tuesday, May 6 at 3:00 p.m. This meeting will take place during the OSHA National Safety Stand-down.  

If you have any questions, you may reach out to the Association Office.

Thank You.