Safe Use of Portable Extension Ladders
The Problem
Extension ladders are versatile and essential tools for working at height, but incorrect use can result in falls, injuries, and fatalities. Accidents often occur due to unstable setups, overreaching, or failing to follow safety guidelines. Today, we’ll identify common hazards when using portable extension ladders and provide practical steps to ensure they’re used safely every time.
Identify the Hazards
Safety Practices and Preventative Measures
Inspect Before Use
- Look for cracks, damaged rungs, worn feet, or loose fittings.
- Immediately remove and tag any damaged ladder out of service.
Set Up Properly
- Ensure the ladder is on stable, level ground.
- Secure or stabilize ladders on uneven or slippery surfaces using ladder feet or anti-slip devices.
- Use cones or barriers when working in high-traffic areas.
Correct Ladder Positioning
- Both side rails must rest against a stable structure.
- Follow the 4-to-1 rule: for every 4 metres in height, place the base 1 metre out from the structure.
- Extend the ladder at least 1 metre above the landing surface for safe access.
Avoid Electrical Hazards
- Keep at least 4 metres away from overhead live lines, or greater depending on voltage and provincial electrical safety guidelines.
- Never use metal ladders near electrical sources.
Climb Safely
- Maintain three points of contact at all times (two hands and one foot or two feet and one hand).
- Always grip the rungs — do not slide hands along the side rails.
- Use a tool belt or rope to lift materials; never carry items in your hands while climbing.
Stay Balanced
- Keep your body centered between the side rails — avoid overreaching.
- Reposition the ladder if needed to maintain a safe posture.
Follow Manufacturer Instructions
- Always adhere to load limits, labels, and warnings on the ladder.
Real-Life Case or Scenario
On a construction site, a worker placed a ladder on uneven ground and did not secure it properly. The ladder shifted while in use, causing the worker to fall over 2.5 metres and sustain multiple injuries. This incident could have been prevented by stabilizing the ladder and following correct setup procedures.
Employee Responsibilities
- Inspect extension ladders before use and report any defects.
- Set up ladders safely and maintain three points of contact.
- Avoid overreaching or using ladders near electrical hazards.
- Use ladders only as intended and in accordance with manufacturer instructions.
Employer Responsibilities
- Provide safe, well-maintained ladders.
- Train workers in ladder safety and hazard identification.
- Promptly repair or replace damaged equipment.
- Implement procedures to reduce ladder-related risks.
Discussion & Questions
- Have you seen unsafe ladder use on site? What was done about it?
- What’s your go-to method for stabilizing a ladder on uneven ground?
- Any additional tips that help you work safely on ladders?
Commitment/Action Plan
Let’s commit to inspecting ladders before each use, setting them up correctly, and avoiding shortcuts that could lead to injury. If in doubt, stop and get help before continuing.
Wrap-Up
Extension ladders are valuable tools—but they must be used properly. Falls from heights are one of the leading causes of serious injury on Canadian construction sites. By following safe practices and staying vigilant, we can keep everyone safe and productive. Thank you for committing to ladder safety today.
Standards Overview
The Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety (CCOHS) and provincial occupational health and safety regulations require:
- Pre-use inspection of all ladders.
- Correct ladder positioning and use.
- Maintaining appropriate separation distances from live electrical lines (refer to provincial electrical safety codes).
Improper ladder use can result in serious injury and regulatory consequences under Canada’s occupational health and safety legislation.
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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