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A Frame Ladders

Sep 9, 2025

ISSUES:

Workers who use ladders in construction risk permanent injury and death from falls and electrocutions. Requirements are set forth in Appendix A of Subpart X. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions and labels on the ladder. To determine the correct ladder, consider your weight plus the weight of your load. Do not exceed the load rating, and always include the weight of all tools, materials, and equipment.

In 2020, there were 161 fatal work injuries from which ladders were the primary source (WEB, April 25, 2022).

2020 STATISTICS:

  • 161 workplace fatalities from ladders
  • 22,710 workplace injuries from ladders
  • 5,790 ladder injuries in installation, maintenance, and repair jobs
  • 5,370 ladder injuries in construction and extraction jobs
  • 3,160 ladder injuries in service jobs

WORKERS WHO EXPERIENCE HIGHER LADDER FALL INJURY RATES INCLUDE:

  • Male
  • Hispanic
  • Older
  • Self-employed

COMMON CAUSES OF LADDER ACCIDENTS:

  • Improper ladder selection
  • Improper ladder use
    • Overreaching while on the ladder
    • Carrying objects while going up or down the ladder
    • Applying excessive force while on the ladder
  • Improper ladder angle
  • No prior use inspection
  • Not spreading it completely
  • Not locking spreader latches
  • Not maintaining three points of contact while climbing
  • Not facing the ladder while climbing and descending
  • Not keeping your body between the side rails (belt buckle rule)
  • Standing on the top two steps
  • Overreaching
  • Using ladder on unstable or unlevel ground

CONSEQUENCES OF INCORRECT LADDER USE IN CONSTRUCTION:

  1. Injuries and fatalities
  2. Property damage
  3. Project delays
  4. Legal and financial repercussions

SOURCES OF HAZARDS (AWARENESS):

  • Unlocked ladder spreaders
  • Standing on the top step or top cap
  • Loading ladder beyond rated load
  • Ladders in high-traffic locations
  • Reaching outside ladder side rails
  • Ladders in close proximity to electrical wiring/equipment

REGULATIONS:

  • OSHA Standard Subpart X 1926.1051(a): A stairway or ladder shall be provided at all personnel points of access where there is a break in elevation of 19 inches (48 cm) or more, and no ramp, runway, sloped embankment, or personnel hoist is provided.
  • OSHA Standard Subpart X 1926.1053(a)(1)(ii): Each portable ladder that is not self-supporting shall sustain at least four times the maximum intended load, except extra-heavy-duty type 1A metal or plastic ladders, which shall sustain at least 3.3 times the maximum intended load.
  • OSHA Standard Subpart X 1926.1053(a)(1)(iii): Each fixed ladder shall support concentrated loads of 250 pounds, plus anticipated usage loads, ice buildup, winds, and rigging.
  • OSHA Standard Subpart X 1926.1053(b)(3): Ladders shall not be loaded beyond the maximum intended load or the manufacturer’s rated capacity.
  • OSHA Standard Subpart P 1926.651(d): Employees exposed to vehicular traffic shall be provided with and wear warning vests or other suitable garments made of reflectorized or high-visibility material.
  • OSHA Standard Subpart X 1926.1053(b)(4): Ladders shall be used only for the purpose for which they were designed.
  • OSHA Standard Subpart X 1926.1053(b)(8): Ladders placed in any location where they can be displaced by activities or traffic shall be secured or barricaded.
  • OSHA Standard Subpart X 1926.1053(b)(9): The area around the top and bottom of ladders shall be kept clear.
  • OSHA Standard Subpart X 1926.1053(b)(13): The top or top step of a stepladder shall not be used as a step.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW:

  • Ladders last. If you can establish a firm working surface without using a ladder (e.g., elevated work platform, scaffolding, or lifts), use them first.
  • Never deviate from the intended use of a ladder and always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations.
  • Make certain your combined weight does not exceed the capacity of the ladder.
  • Use the correct ladder height for the task. Follow the “belt buckle rule” to keep your weight between the side rails.
  • Use a platform ladder whenever possible.
  • Practice the one-to-one principle: for every foot up, remain one foot away from the edge of a working surface, roof, or guardrail system.
  • Maintain all required setbacks to electrical hazards.
    Be aware of common stepladder hazards: damaged ladders, ladders on slippery or unstable surfaces.

IMPORTANT DO’S TO KEEP IN MIND ABOUT A-FRAME LADDERS

  • Do inspect the ladder for damage (cracks, splits, bent rails, loose screws, bolts).
  • Do check the load rating and task requirements.
  • Do ensure the spreaders are locked.
  • Do position the ladder on firm, level, non-slippery surfaces.
  • Do wear non-slip footwear.Do maintain three points of contact while climbing
  • Do face the ladder and keep centered between rails.
  • Do use a tool belt or rope to hoist materials.
  • Do have another person hold the ladder when in use.
  • Do use a platform ladder whenever possible.
  • Do choose a ladder that extends 3 feet above the access point.
  • Do inspect grips on risers.
  • Do exert extra caution if over age 60.

IMPORTANT DON’TS TO KEEP IN MIND ABOUT A-FRAME LADDERS

  • Do not stand on the top two steps or top cap.
  • Do not move the ladder while occupied.
  • Do not use an A-frame in a closed or leaned position unless designed for it.
  • Do not use aluminum ladders for electrical work.
  • Do not place objects under feet to extend or level.
  • Do not use a damaged ladder.
  • Do not carry objects that affect balance.
  • Do not use a ladder if not physically capable.
  • Do not use a ladder if uncomfortable with heights.
  • Do not use ladders in vehicular traffic areas without protection.

 

Bureau of Labor Statistics. Census of Fatal Occupational Injuries (CFOI), 2020. U.S. Department of Labor, Apr. 25, 2022.

Occupational Safety and Health Administration. 29 CFR Part 1926, Subpart X – Ladders. U.S. Department of Labor, OSHA.

Occupational Safety and Health Administration. 29 CFR Part 1926, Subpart P – Excavations. U.S. Department of Labor, OSHA.

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