Lesson 7: Ladder Accidents

• Over-reaching from ladders, rather than moving them.

• Standing ladders on boxes, etc., to gain additional height.

• Too much haste in climbing or descending.

• Climbing one-handed while carrying something in the other hand.

• Standing at the very top of a short ladder, rather than getting one long enough for the job.

• Hanging tools from ladder rungs, or leaving tools on the top of the stepladder.

• Throwing tools to a fellow worker on a ladder.

• Placing the ladder at an improper angle.

• Using metal ladders in locations where contact with electric wires is possible.

• Using worn or damaged ladders.

• Failure to secure (tie) the ladder in place.

Remember:

• Never use a metal ladder where contact with electrical wires is possible.

• Never climb on a ladder's bracing.

• The spreaders of a ladder must always be locked fully open.