Most workers injured in falls from ladders are less than 10 feet above the ladder´s base!

• Inspect your ladder for tight joints between steps and side rails, cracks, rust, broken rungs and rails, and oily or greasy rungs.
  
  
• Ensure non-slip safety feet on each ladder or, secure ladder to prevent it from sliding on slippery surfaces.
  
  
• Step ladders must have a metal spreader bar.
  
  
• Extend ladder at least 36 inches (3 feet) above the surface served. See Diagram.
  
  
• Check the ladder´s rating and don´t subject it to a load greater than its rated capacity.
  
  
• Use only non-conductive ladders near electrical conductors.
  
  
• Set the ladder on solid footing, against a solid support.
  
  
• Place the base of non-self supporting ladders out away from the wall or edge of the upper level one foot for every four feet of vertical height (1:4). See Diagram.
  
  
• Never increase the height of a ladder by standing it on other objects, such as boxes, barrels, or by splicing two ladders together.
  
  
• Keep ladders away from doorways or walkways, unless they can be protected by barriers.
  
  
• Climb the ladder carefully, facing it and using both hands. Use a tool belt or hand line to carry materials.
  
  
• Keep your body centered. Never let your belt buckle pass beyond either ladder rail. If something is out of reach, get down and move the ladder.
  
  
• Never use ladders as sideways platforms, runways or scaffolds.