Ladder Safety on the Job
Falls happen when you lose your balance. Standing on makeshift supports and using ladders incorrectly can cause you to fall. Using the wrong equipment for a task can also increase your chances of being hurt.
Watch for hazards
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Makeshift supports. Makeshift supports are never quite right for the job. And they're not safe. For instance, don't stand on top of a trash can or chair instead of a stepstool or ladder. This raises your risk of falling and hurting yourself. Never make a short ladder taller by putting something under the legs. And be careful not to overreach. This can shift your center of gravity and make you lose your balance.
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Incorrect use of ladders. Using equipment incorrectly is a common fall hazard. If you set a ladder too close or too far from a building, you're more likely to fall off of it. Other causes of falls include setting the ladder on loose, uneven ground. Or using a tall ladder by yourself without securing it. And never stand on the top of a stepladder or use an extension ladder that's too short.
Use the right equipment and use it right
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Find out what you need ahead of time.
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Follow safety warnings on equipment.
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Keep yourself centered over your support so you're less likely to lose your balance.
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Keep your arms and legs as close to your center of gravity as possible (don't overreach).
Follow ladder safety rules
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Inspect the ladder before using it.
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Use the 1 to 4 rule. The base of the ladder needs to be placed 1 foot out from its support for every 4 feet of ladder length.
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Set and secure the ladder on stable ground.
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Have someone hold the base of the ladder.
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Never use the top rung.

Online Medical Reviewer:
Amy Finke RN BSN
Online Medical Reviewer:
Raymond Kent Turley BSN MSN RN
Online Medical Reviewer:
Thomas N Joseph MD
Date Last Reviewed:
12/1/2021
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