Ladder Safety

Ladders are used at Southern Utah University in a wide variety of settings, both academic and administrative. Misuse of ladders can result in broken bones and other serious injuries from falls or, in the case of metal ladders, electrical shock. Ladders must be maintained in good condition at all times, and inspected at regular, frequent intervals.

The improper use of ladders remains one of OSHA’s Top Ten Violations. This is because falls are still the leading cause of death in the workplace “and nearly half of those falls have been from ladders” (EHSToday).

Climbing Guidelines

There are a few climbing guidelines that help to prevent accidents when using a portable ladder.

Wear close-toed shoes with nonskid soles that are free of mud or grease. Clean ladder rungs of mud, grease, or ice before climbing.
Place ladders on stable bases. Boxes, barrels, or other unstable surfaces should never be used to obtain additional height.
If necessary, have another person hold the base of the ladder. If no one is available, the ladder should be securely lashed or fastened top and bottom to prevent it from slipping.
Overreaching can cause instability. A good rule of thumb is to not let one's belt buckle outside the uprights.
Always face the ladder and maintain a 3-point contact when climbing or descending.
Always check to ensure tools and equipment have been removed from the top of the ladder before moving it.
Only one person should climb a ladder at a time.
Inspect ladders on a regular basis. See the Ladder Inspection Checklist for what to look for during the inspection.
Never stand on the top step of a straight ladder or anywhere on any ladder that is not designed for standing on.

Ladder Selection

Ladders come in a variety of types, duty ratings and composition materials. Selecting the right ladder for the task is extremely important. There are several different ladder types. Selecting the proper type will depend on the task required. Only select ladders that will be of significant strength for the job it will be used for.

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Ladder Type Best Used For

Stepladders Temporary Tasks. Minimal storage space required.

Straight or Extension Ladders Generally used for climbing heights. Extension ladders allow for a variation in height.

Platform Ladders Combination ladder/scaffold allows for both climbing and work surface

Rolling Staircase More gradual climbing angle and stable work platform. Requires larger area for storage.

Duty Ratings

Each ladder is rated with a specific duty rating. Remember that the capacity rating includes all personnel, tools and equipment.

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Ladder Type Duty Rating Load Capacity

Light Duty Household Type III 200 lbs.

Medium Duty Commercial Type II 225 lbs.

Heavy Duty Industrial Type I 250 lbs.

Extra Heavy Duty Industrial Type IA 300 lbs.

Special Duty Industrial Type IAA 375 lbs.

Composition Materials

Ladders are typically made of wood, aluminum or fiberglass. Each material has characteristics which make it best for certain situations. Only wood or fiberglass ladders may be used for electrical work or where exposure to electrical equipment may occur.

Types of Ladders

Fixed Ladders

Fixed ladders are subject to different standards and requirements than portable ladders. The following are just some of the requirements for fixed ladders.

Ladder safety devices, such as cages or climbing systems are required if the total length of climb on a fixed ladder equals or exceeds 24 feet in length. By November 2036 OSHA will require that all fixed ladders that equal or exceed 24 feet in length must be equipped with a personal fall arrest system or ladder safety system. Fixed ladders must be able to support at least two loads of 250 lbs. each. Rungs must be shaped to minimize slipping.

For more information on the requirements for fixed ladders, see the OSHA Standard, 29 CFR 1910.28 Fixed Ladders.

Stepladders and A-Frame Ladders

Stepladders and A-frame ladders are designed to be self-supporting. There are several important points when using stepladders:

The spreaders must be fully extended and locked in place before climbing.
The maximum working height of a stepladder may not be exceeded.
Paint trays are not steps and should only be used for holding paint cans and trays.
Unless designed for such use, the back of the ladder may not be used for climbing.
Stepladders should never be leaned against a wall for use as a straight ladder.

Straight Ladders

Set up and placement of a ladder is important in safe use. Straight ladders should be positioned:

So that the ladder is set to a 75 degree angle from the ground.
- To measure this, the horizontal distance between the foot of the ladder and the support against which it is placed is approximately equal to one-fourth the height at which the ladder is resting against the support.
So that both upper contact points rest firmly against the structure.
So that the ladder extends at least three feet above the point of support.

Users should make sure that both rung locking mechanisms are fully engaged.

Storage & Maintenance

Proper storage and maintenance of ladders is important for safety. Whenever possible, ladders should be hung horizontally on wall hooks in a dry place not subject to extremes of temperatures. Users can do minor maintenance, like lubricating hinges and tightening hardware. However, ladder repair is specialized work and should be completed by qualified persons or the manufacturer.

If conditions exist that make a ladder unsafe for use, it should be removed from service immediately and marked with a warning such as "Dangerous - Do Not Use". If a ladder cannot be repaired, it should be destroyed prior to disposal.

For more information on ladder safety, visit the SUU Enterprise Risk Management Ladder Safety Page by clicking here or refer to the slides below.

ERM Ladder Safety Page

Ladder Safety

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