Climbing Safety: OSHA’s National Ladder Safety Month

Join OSHA this month in celebrating National Ladder Safety Month. Each week will consist of a new toolkit talk on a different construction risk management topic to help you and your employees stay safe this spring and to help raise awareness on these topics. Week three we are going to discuss the topic of safety while climbing a ladder. 

While climbing up and down ladders the most important thing to keep in mind is the three points of contact rule. This rule minimizes the chance of slipping and falling from the ladder. It states that the climber should face the ladder and have two hands and one foot, or two feet and one hand in contact with the ladder at all times.

• Other than the three points of contact rule. Here are some safe practices to remember while working with and climbing ladders:

• Be attentive to what you are currently doing as well as your surroundings

• Use towline, a tool belt, or an assistant to convey materials to keep your hands free when climbing

• Climb slowly and avoid sudden movements that could cause falls

• Never move a ladder while standing on it

• Keep the center of your abdomen between the ladder side rails when climbing and while working 

• Do not overreach or lean while working to avoid falls
  

Follow these tips and make your employees aware of proper climbing techniques to avoid fatal fall accidents. To learn more about OSHA’s National Ladder Safety Month or the safety while climbing a ladder visit: https://www.laddersafetymonth.com/.

DII is your partner in worksite safety. Our team of experts can work with you to understand how to educate your employees and keep everyone at the worksite safe while using ladders or other equipment. Please contact your DII representative for more information. #LadderSafety #OSHA #climbing