Ladder Safety
Selecting the Right
Type of Ladder
Type of Ladder
OSHA 1926.1053 · ANSI A14 Series · Duty Rating Must Match Worker + Tool Weight
Using the wrong ladder for a task is not just a compliance issue — it is a direct path to structural failure, overloading, or improper use that leads to falls. On an NYC construction site, ladder selection is a pre-task decision, not an afterthought. The right ladder for the height, the load, and the access requirement must be identified before you leave the ground.
Duty Ratings — Always Check the Label
- Type IAA (375 lbs): Extra heavy-duty. For heavy trade work with tools. Recommended as the baseline for most NYC construction tasks
- Type IA (300 lbs): Heavy-duty. Minimum for any trade work involving tools and materials
- Type I (250 lbs): Heavy-duty. Add your weight + tool weight + material weight — this is often exceeded by larger workers with heavy tool bags
- Type II (225 lbs) / Type III (200 lbs): NOT for construction use — medium and light duty only
- Duty rating includes the worker AND everything they carry — weigh out the full load before selecting
Ladder Type vs. Task
- Step ladder: For self-supporting tasks where both sides are accessible. Never used as a leaning ladder — the rails are not designed for that loading
- Extension ladder: For access to elevated work areas; leans against the structure. Must extend 3 feet above the landing point for egress use
- Multi-position/articulating ladder: Versatile — can function as step, extension, or scaffold base. Must be locked in all positions before use
- Trestle ladder (baker's scaffold): For extended work areas. Two self-supporting sections with a plank platform
Fiberglass vs. Aluminum on NYC Sites
- Fiberglass ladders: required for all work near energized electrical equipment — non-conductive. Heavier than aluminum
- Aluminum ladders: never use near electrical hazards. Suitable for most non-electrical construction tasks
- Wood ladders: almost never appropriate for NYC commercial construction — inspect for cracks, splinters, and paint (which can hide defects)
Discussion Questions
- A worker weighs 220 lbs and carries a 40-lb tool bag. Which minimum duty rating must the ladder have?
- Can you use a Type II ladder on this construction site? Why or why not?
- Why is it dangerous to use a step ladder in the leaning position against a wall?
- Your work requires accessing the top of an electrical panel. What ladder material is required?
Sign-Off
Project Address
Date
Time
Foreman / Supervisor
SSM / SSC Name & License No.
Worker Attendance
| # | Worker Name (Print) | Signature |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | ||
| 2 | ||
| 3 | ||
| 4 | ||
| 5 | ||
| 6 | ||
| 7 | ||
| 8 | ||
| 9 | ||
| 10 | ||
| 11 | ||
| 12 | ||
| 13 | ||
| 14 | ||
| 15 | ||
| 16 | ||
| 17 | ||
| 18 | ||
| 19 | ||
| 20 |