Ladder setup

Most ladder falls happen because of how the ladder was set up, not how it was climbed. Take thirty seconds to set it right.

Key points

• Use the 4-to-1 rule: one foot out from the wall for every four feet of height.
• Extend the ladder 3 feet above the landing so you have something to hold when you step off.
• Set the feet on firm, level ground. No blocks, buckets or boards under a leg.
• Check the rungs, rails and feet for damage before every use. Tag out a damaged ladder.
• Keep three points of contact and face the ladder going up and down.

Ask the crew

• Where on this job are we setting ladders on soft or uneven ground?
• Who checks ladders before they come off the truck?