Ladders may seem simple, but they can send you crashing down if you’re not careful.
Ladders are everywhere, from construction sites to office supply closets. Whether you’re reaching for a lightbulb or scaling a multi-story building, choosing the right ladder and using it correctly is the difference between a job well done and an ER visit
Safety culture starts with choosing the right ladder and actually maintaining it.
Ladders aren’t one-size-fits-all. You wouldn’t use a step stool to paint a skyscraper, so why risk using the wrong ladder for your task? Here’s a breakdown of ladder types and when to use them
Step stools
Perfect for small indoor tasks like changing light bulbs or grabbing items off high shelves. They fold up for easy storage and must follow OSHA’s 8–12 inch step-spacing rule to keep things steady
Step ladders
These A-frame beauties are great for ceiling repairs, painting, or hanging decorations. Some have steps on both sides, making them ideal for two-person jobs
Platform ladders
Need a stable standing surface? Platform ladders come with a built-in standing area and safety rail so you’re not performing a balancing act while working at height
Extension ladders
If you need to reach rooftops or paint exteriors, these adjustable ladders are your best bet. Many models come with pulley systems to make setup a breeze
Multi-position ladders
A jack-of-all-trades ladder that converts into step ladders, extension ladders, and even scaffolding. Perfect for uneven surfaces like staircases
Rolling or portable scaffolds
Need a large work platform with mobility? These ladders have wheels and guardrails, making them ideal for construction or maintenance work that requires frequent movement
Fixed ladders
Bolted to buildings, these are commonly found on fire escapes, manholes, and rooftops. Regular maintenance is key, rust and broken rungs make these death traps
Not all ladders are built the same, so know your material and weight limits.
Materials matter
- Aluminum: Lightweight, rust-resistant, and great for general use, but a big no-no near electricity
- Wood: Non-conductive (when dry), cost-effective, but heavy and prone to wear
- Steel: Strong and heavy-duty but needs corrosion protection
- Fiberglass: The best for electrical work, non-conductive, durable, and weather-resistant
Weight capacity ratings
Ladders are graded by how much weight they can handle, including you, your tools, and anything you’re hauling
- Type IAA: 375 pounds
- Type IA: 300 pounds
- Type I: 250 pounds
- Type II: 225 pounds
- Type III: 200 pounds
Always check the rating, don’t assume your ladder is ready to hold a person plus 50 pounds of gear
Proper ladder use isn’t optional if you want to stay in one piece.
General safety tips
- Pick the right ladder: Match the ladder type, material, and weight rating to your task
- Set it up correctly: Stable, dry ground only, no wobbling allowed
- One person at a time: Unless specified otherwise, ladders aren’t for sharing
- Keep doors in check: Never place a ladder in front of an unlocked door
- Wear proper shoes: Slip-resistant footwear keeps you steady
The three-point-of-contact rule
Keep either two hands and one foot or two feet and one hand on the ladder at all times
- Face forward: Always face the rungs while climbing
- Move carefully: No rushing, no skipping rungs
- Use a tool belt: Free up your hands, don’t climb while carrying items
- Don’t overreach: If you have to stretch, reposition the ladder
Portable ladder requirements
- Use only on stable surfaces
- Never move or extend while in use
- Top must extend at least 3 feet above upper landings
- Follow the 4-to-1 rule: For every 4 feet of height, place the base 1 foot away from the wall
Fixed ladder requirements
- Over 24 feet? You need a personal fall arrest system (PFAS)
- Grab bars must extend 42 inches above the landing for stability
- Inspect regularly for missing rungs, rust, or cracks
Ladder-related injuries still happen because of avoidable mistakes.
Here’s what not to do:
- Overloading: Exceeding weight limits leads to collapses
- Using the wrong material: Aluminum near electricity is causing trouble
- Skipping inspections: Damaged ladders are accidents waiting to happen
- Bad climbing habits: No standing on the top rung, no skipping the three-point rule
Expand your knowledge with ladder safety training.
This course introduces Workplace Safety: Using Ladders Safely, but there’s always more to learn. For a deeper dive into ladder types, materials, and advanced safety protocols, enroll in our Ladder Safety Training Course
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