OSHA Ladder Safety - Ladder or No Ladder?

Falls are the leading cause of death in construction and every year falls from ladders make up nearly a third of those deaths. These deaths are preventable. Falls from ladders can be prevented and lives can be saved by following the safe work practices described in this training.                                                                         

According to the Center for Disease Control (CDC) more than 500,000 people are treated and about 300 people die from ladder-related injuries each year in the United States. The estimated annual cost of ladder injuries in the U.S. is $24 billion, including work loss, medical, legal, liability, and pain and suffering expenses. When you want to reach a higher work area, think about the best equipment to use.                                                                                          While a ladder or stepladder is commonly used, it may not always be the best option. Ask yourself these questions before deciding on a ladder:

• Will I have to hold heavy items while on the ladder?

• Will the task require a longer unstable ladder?

  
  
  
  

• Will I be working from this height for a long time?

• Will I have to stand sideways on the ladder to work?

If your answer is yes to one of the above questions, consider using something other than a ladder. Alternatives to ladders for reaching heights include mobile scaffolds, access platforms/push-around vertical lifts (PAVs), and scissor lifts, offering safer and more efficient solutions for reaching heights.