Hidden Ladder Hazards: Preventing the Injuries You Don’t See Coming
The Problem
Ladders are essential tools on any worksite, but injuries often occur not from falls, but from handling, setting up, or moving ladders improperly. These incidents can cause back injuries, crushed fingers, or sprains that result in time off work, discomfort, and even long-term harm. Today, we’ll focus on these often-overlooked hazards and how to prevent injuries during day-to-day ladder use.
Identify the Hazards
- Back Injuries: Caused by lifting long or heavy ladders incorrectly.
- Pinch Points: Hinges or spreaders can close suddenly and trap fingers.
- Crush Injuries: Fingers can be caught when ladder sections slam together.
- Blind Spots: Carrying ladders can obstruct your view, leading to trips or collisions.
Safety Practices and Preventative Measures
Prevent Back Injuries
- Hazard: Carrying or setting up ladders incorrectly strains the lower back.
- Solution:
- Ask for help when moving large or heavy ladders.
- Plan your lift before starting—check your path is clear.
- Use the “walking up” method: place the ladder flat on the ground with the base against the wall.
- Lift the top end while keeping your back straight.
- Walk the ladder up step-by-step, controlling its angle carefully.
Avoid Pinch Points
- Hazard: Hinges and spreaders can suddenly snap shut.
- Solution:
- Keep your hands well clear of spreaders and hinges during setup and takedown.
- Use proper grip points designed by the manufacturer.
- Stay alert when opening or closing ladders.
Prevent Finger Crush Injuries
- Hazard: Sections closing too fast can trap your fingers.
- Solution:
- Only grip the outside rails when raising or lowering ladders.
- Never put fingers between ladder sections.
- Move slowly and deliberately when folding ladders.
Safely Transport Ladders
- Hazard: Carrying a ladder creates blind spots and collision risks.
- Solution:
- Lower the leading end slightly for better visibility.
- Take care at corners and doorways—announce yourself.
- Use a spotter if moving ladders through busy or tight areas.
Real-Life Case or Scenario
On one site, a worker tried to carry an extension ladder across a busy walkway without planning their path. The ladder clipped a scaffold pole, bounced, and strained the worker’s shoulder. He missed a week of work. Simply getting help or planning the movement in advance would have prevented the injury.
Employee Responsibilities
- Inspect ladders before handling or moving them.
- Ask for help when lifting awkward or long ladders.
- Stay alert for pinch points, and use proper hand positions.
- Communicate clearly with others while transporting ladders.
Employer Responsibilities
- Train workers on proper ladder handling, setup, and transport.
- Ensure ladders are in good condition and regularly inspected.
- Remove damaged ladders from service immediately.
- Promote a safety-first culture—no rushing with ladders.
Discussion & Questions
- Has anyone ever experienced an injury or near miss while handling a ladder?
- What challenges do you face when moving ladders on-site?
- How do we ensure we’re communicating properly when transporting ladders?
Encourage open discussion. Share tips and real-world experiences.
Commitment/Action Plan
Let’s commit to safe ladder handling every time. Starting today: Inspect your ladder before handling. Get help with heavy or awkward ladders. Be aware of pinch points and grip ladders correctly. Plan your path before moving any ladder.
Wrap-Up
Even routine ladder handling tasks carry risk. A minor injury can lead to serious disruption. With a few simple precautions, we can eliminate these hazards and protect our teams. Thank you for staying alert and prioritizing safety every day.
Standards Overview
Under Canadian occupational health and safety legislation and CCOHS guidance:
- Workers must ensure ladders are safe before use.
- Equipment must be maintained and transported safely.
- Employers are responsible for providing training and safe work procedures.
Ignoring these responsibilities can lead to serious injuries and legal consequences.
Disclaimer
“The information provided in this toolbox talk is intended for informational and educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional legal, safety, or regulatory advice. The content reflects general best practices and industry standards but may not be applicable to all workplace environments or jurisdictions.
It is the responsibility of employers, supervisors, and workers to ensure compliance with applicable federal, provincial, and territorial laws, regulations, and standards, including but not limited to those set by the Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety (CCOHS) and relevant provincial occupational health and safety authorities. Site App Pro, its affiliates, agents, or representatives—as well as the authors, presenters, and distributors of this toolbox talk—assume no liability for the use or application of the information provided.
Participants are strongly encouraged to consult appropriate legal, safety, or regulatory professionals regarding specific workplace concerns or questions. Always adhere to your organisation’s policies and procedures for health and safety and hazard management.
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