Safe Use of Extension Ladders
A safety talk focused on extension ladder hazards, including inspection, proper angle, stable footing, securing ladders, overhead hazards, access height, and fall prevention.
Scan to open or share
Point your phone at this code to open this talk, or screenshot it and text it to coworkers.
Printable Resources
Link to printable files for crew meetings, briefings, or documentation.
Key Hazards
- Falls from improper ladder angle or setup
- Ladder feet slipping on unstable surfaces
- Ladders shifting because they are not secured
- Overreaching while working from the ladder
- Contact with overhead electrical hazards
- Damaged rails, rungs, locks, ropes, or feet
2–3 Minute Talk Script
Extension ladders are useful for access and elevated work, but they can cause serious falls when they are damaged, placed at the wrong angle, not secured, or used near overhead hazards.
Workers should inspect the ladder before use. Rails, rungs, feet, locks, ropes, pulleys, labels, and hardware should be in good condition and free of cracks, bends, oil, mud, ice, or missing parts.
The ladder should be placed on firm, level, stable footing. Soft ground, gravel, mud, ice, uneven pavement, or loose material can cause the ladder to shift or slide.
Extension ladders should be set at the proper angle. A ladder that is too steep can tip backward, and a ladder that is too flat can slide out at the base.
When used for access to a landing, the ladder should extend above the landing as required and be secured when needed. Workers should not step off onto a roof or platform from an unstable ladder.
Workers should keep their body centered between the rails and avoid overreaching. If the work cannot be reached safely, the ladder should be moved.
Overhead hazards must be checked before moving, raising, or positioning an extension ladder. Power lines, lights, piping, signs, and overhead doors can create serious hazards.
Safe extension ladder use depends on inspection, setup, and discipline. Use the right ladder, place it correctly, secure it when needed, and climb with three points of contact.
Safety Reminders
- Inspect extension ladders before use.
- Place ladders on firm, level, stable footing.
- Use the proper ladder angle.
- Secure the ladder when required.
- Extend the ladder properly above access landings.
- Keep your body centered and avoid overreaching.
- Stay clear of overhead power lines and obstructions.
Ask the Crew
- Has the ladder been inspected before use?
- Is the ladder placed on stable footing?
- Is the ladder angle correct?
- Does the ladder need to be secured?
- Are overhead electrical or structural hazards nearby?