Ladder Safety Toolbox Talk

About This Toolbox Talk

This toolbox talk covers the most common causes of ladder incidents on construction sites and the practical steps crews can take before every climb.

Learning objectives

• Understand the main hazards associated with portable ladder use
• Select the correct ladder for the task and work location
• Set up ladders on stable, level surfaces using safe practices
• Maintain secure footing and three points of contact while climbing
• Recognize when a ladder should not be used and when another access method is required

Hazards

• Falls from ladders due to loss of balance or incorrect use
• Ladder placed on unstable, uneven, or slippery surfaces
• Using a ladder that is damaged or unsuitable for the task
• Overreaching or leaning outside the ladder rails
• Carrying tools or materials while climbing
• Contact with energized electrical equipment or overhead power lines
• Improper ladder angle or inadequate support
• Other workers, equipment, or vehicles striking the ladder

Controls and preventive measures

• Inspect the ladder before each use and remove damaged ladders from service
• Select a ladder of the correct type, length, duty rating, and condition
• Set the ladder on a firm, level, and stable surface
• Secure the ladder against movement where required
• Maintain three points of contact while climbing
• Face the ladder when climbing and keep your body between the side rails
• Do not overreach; reposition the ladder instead
• Keep both hands free when climbing by using a tool belt or suitable hoisting method
• Keep ladders away from energized electrical sources unless the equipment and controls are appropriate
• Keep the area around the ladder clear of people, vehicles, and other hazards
• Use a different access method when the task cannot be completed safely from a ladder

Discussion points

1. Inspect the ladder before every use
2. Choose the correct ladder for the task
3. Set the ladder on firm, level ground
4. Maintain three points of contact while climbing
5. Keep your body between the side rails
6. Do not overreach or stand on prohibited steps
7. Keep tools and materials secured while climbing
8. Watch for electrical, overhead, and traffic hazards
9. Secure the ladder against movement where necessary
10. Know when a ladder is not the appropriate equipment for the job

Worker considerations

• Stop work if the ladder becomes unstable or conditions change
• Report damaged or defective ladders to the supervisor
• Follow the manufacturer's instructions and site-specific procedures
• Use required fall protection or other controls where applicable
• Keep the work area around the ladder clear
• Ask for assistance when the task or ladder setup cannot be completed safely
• Never use a ladder while impaired, excessively fatigued, or unable to maintain safe footing

Sign-off and attendance

Review this toolbox talk with all workers before starting the related task. Discuss the hazards, required controls, and site-specific conditions. Allow workers to ask questions and raise concerns. Confirm that workers understand the safe work practices discussed. Record the names, signatures, and date of attendees on the toolbox talk attendance record.