Safety Talk: Ladder Safety
Ladders are one of the most common tools in workplaces, but they’re not always used safely. A fall from a ladder can result in minor injuries, such as bruising, to severe injuries like broken bones, concussions or worse.
What you need to know
Recognize the hazard |
Manage the risk |
|---|---|
| Slippery, wet or dirty work areas or ladder surfaces | Clean and dry the work area and the ladder before use |
| Carrying loads that make it difficult to maintain three points of contact while on a ladder | Use a tool belt to carry tools or a hoist to raise or lower materials |
| Climbing a ladder at too steep an angle | Set up ladders with the base between one-quarter and one-third of the ladder’s length away from a wall; |
| Climbing on furniture, boxes or other objects instead of safely using the right type of ladder | Select a ladder with the right height, shape and material for the task |
| Overreaching or leaning to get to an object from a ladder | Face the ladder and stay between the ladder side rails |
| Moving a ladder while on it | Get down from a ladder before moving it and move the ladder to a new position |
| Using an incorrect type of ladder | Select the appropriate ladder for the situation (step-ladder, extension ladder, spiked foot ladder as some examples) |
More safety tips
- before using, check that all parts of the ladder are undamaged;
- set up ladders on firm, level surfaces that will not move under pressure and do not use ladders in high winds
- safely secure ladders that go beyond three metres in height;
- clean up the area where the ladder is set up and manage foot-traffic in the area;
- only have one person on a ladder at a time and do not stand on the top rung; and
- immediately report unsafe ladders to your employer or your health and safety representative.
Start the safety conversation
- Which hazards should you look for before using a ladder in your workplace?
- Does your workplace provide ladders that are appropriate for the required tasks?
- Were you provided training on ladder use and safety?
- Do you know where to find the procedures or written instructions to work safely with ladders?
More information
View the Yukon Workplace Health and Safety Regulations, Part 10 - Construction and Building Safety at www.wcb.yk.ca/regulations.Contact Workers’ Safety and Compensation Board at wcb.yk.ca. Our 24- hour line is 867-667-5645 or toll free 800-661-0443. You can email us [email protected].