Ladder Safety

Key Hazards

• Falls caused by unstable ladder placement
• Overreaching or loss of balance
• Slippery or uneven ground conditions
• Contact with energized systems
• Damaged or improperly used ladders
• Falling tools or materials from elevated work

2–3 Minute Talk Script

Ladders are used in many routine operations, but small setup mistakes can quickly lead to serious injuries. Falls often occur during short-duration tasks when workers rush or become comfortable with familiar equipment.

Ground conditions are one of the most important ladder safety factors. Mud, gravel, wet concrete, soft shoulders, uneven terrain, floor debris, ice, and sloped surfaces can all affect ladder stability.

Workers should inspect ladders before use for damaged rails, bent steps, loose feet, cracked components, missing hardware, or contamination from oil, mud, or chemicals.

Ladders should be positioned to maintain stability throughout the task. Overreaching, leaning sideways, or climbing while carrying tools can shift the center of gravity and increase fall exposure.

Outdoor utility work and maintenance operations often involve changing weather, traffic movement, equipment congestion, and low visibility conditions that affect safe ladder placement.

Metal ladders should never be used near energized electrical systems or overhead power hazards. Workers should remain aware of changing equipment positions, utility lines, and nearby vehicle movement during setup and use.

Tools and materials should be secured to prevent dropped-object hazards below the work area. Workers on the ground should avoid walking beneath active ladder operations whenever possible.

If safe ladder placement cannot be maintained due to environmental conditions, traffic exposure, unstable surfaces, or operational conflicts, work should stop until safer access methods can be established.

Safety Reminders

• Inspect ladders before each use.
• Maintain stable footing and secure ladder placement.
• Avoid overreaching or leaning outside ladder rails.
• Keep work areas below ladders clear when possible.
• Use non-conductive ladders near electrical hazards.
• Watch for changing weather or surface conditions.
• Stop work if ladder stability cannot be maintained safely.

Ask the Crew

• Are ground and surface conditions stable for ladder use?
• Could weather, traffic, or congestion affect ladder stability?
• Are workers overreaching or carrying materials while climbing?
• Could nearby electrical hazards affect safe ladder placement?
• Are dropped-object hazards controlled below the work area?