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March 1, 2025 |

Think Before You Climb: Ladder Safety

A ladder is often necessary, whether it is for a home improvement project, clearing the gutters, or hanging decorative lights. However, before rushing into a project, take a few minutes to inspect your ladder and ensure it is the right one for the job.

Each year in the United States, more than 100 people die and thousands more are injured from ladder-related falls, according to the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH).

There are five major causes for ladder-related fall incidents, according to NIOSH:

  1. Incorrect extension ladder setup angle: In approximately 40% of cases, the cause of ladder-related injuries is a ladder sliding out at the base due to an incorrect setup angle.
  2. Inappropriate ladder selection: Selecting a ladder with the proper rating for intended use (duty rating) is also important to avoid structural failure. Select the correct ladder for the job.
  3. Insufficient ladder inspection: Reduce the likelihood of ladder structural failure by practicing regular inspection and maintenance (see separate section on inspections).
  4. Improper ladder use: Overreaching, carrying objects, applying excessive force, slips, and missteps are also frequent causes of ladder-related fall injuries.
  5. Lack of access to ladder safety tools and information: Small companies that account for up to 80% of all construction companies, as well as domestic ladder users, such as homeowners, typically do not receive the required safety training on the proper use of extension ladders and step ladders.

Don’t skip the inspection
Before using a ladder, check to see if it is broken, in disrepair, or not functioning as it should. If this is the case, ensure no one uses it until it is properly repaired or replaced. Look for:

  • Cracks
  • Serious dents
  • Deformed or missing steps/rungs
  • Missing or uneven feet
  • Loose steps/rungs
  • Defective locks and spreader braces

Look up first
Always look up and look out for overhead power lines before climbing, transporting or positioning a ladder. When moving a ladder, carry it horizontally instead of vertically because getting too close or contacting overhead power lines could cause electrocution.

Always be aware of overhead power lines
Keep yourself and all equipment 10 feet away from overhead power lines.

  •  Electricity can arc or jump if a ladder gets too close to a power line or pole.
  •  A ladder could make direct contact with the line.

Use a ladder during ideal weather conditions.

  • Rain can make the ground slippery.
  • Wind could blow a ladder into a power line.

Do not trim trees/branches that are near power lines.

  • It is dangerous to trim near overhead power lines.
  • By law, only certified line clearance tree trimmers can do so.

Do not use water or blower extensions to clean gutters near overhead lines.

  • All power lines can cause electrocution, including those feeding your home.
  • Always follow the 10-foot distance rule when working or playing outside.

An aluminum ladder is a great conductor of electricity; however, a wooden ladder can be one too, depending on the condition of the ladder and whether it is wet or has metal parts.

Anything that elevates you can take you too close to a power line if you are not aware of your surroundings. For more information on electrical safety, visit SafeElectricity.org.