Ladder falls kill more construction workers in New York City than any other equipment-related hazard. Almost every ladder fatality involves a violation of a basic ladder safety rule — overreaching, incorrect angle, unsecured base, or using a damaged ladder. None of these are acceptable excuses. Every ladder fall is preventable.

• 1. Wrong angle: Ladder too steep or too shallow. Use the 4:1 rule — base 1 foot out for every 4 feet of height
• 2. Unsecured base or top: Ladder base must be on firm, level ground; tie off or have someone foot the ladder before climbing
• 3. Overreaching: Your belt buckle goes beyond the rails — the ladder tips. Climb down and reposition. Always
• 4. Carrying materials: Both hands are needed for 3-point contact. Use a tool belt, rope, or material hoist for tools and materials
• 5. Using a damaged or wrong-type ladder: Inspect before every use; use the right ladder for the height and load

• Face the ladder at all times — climbing up and down
• Maintain three points of contact — both hands and one foot, or both feet and one hand
• Never use the top two rungs of a stepladder or the top three rungs of an extension ladder
• Keep your center of gravity between the rails — do not twist your body to reach sideways
• Wear footwear with clean, slip-resistant soles — mud or debris on boot soles is a common cause of rung slips

• Never use a metal (aluminum) ladder near energized electrical equipment or overhead power lines
• Fiberglass ladders required for all electrical work — look for the fiberglass marker on the rail
• Maintain the 10-foot OSHA clearance from overhead power lines when positioning any ladder