March is National Ladder Safety Month
March is National Ladder Safety Month, an annual initiative led by the American Ladder Institute (ALI) to promote safe ladder practices at home and in the workplace. There are a staggering number of ladder accidents every year—a half million treated injuries, 22,000 workplace accidents, and hundreds of deaths. Following a few ladder safety rules could have prevented most of these accidents. This dedicated month aims to reduce these incidents through education and awareness.
According to the CDC, the five leading causes of ladder fall injuries are:
Incorrect extension ladder set-up angle: In about 40% of cases, the cause of the ladder-related injury is a ladder sliding out at the base from an incorrect set-up angle. Set up extension ladders at about a 75-degree angle.
Inappropriate ladder selection: The selection of a ladder with the proper size and duty rating is important to avoid instability and structural failure. However, many ladder users lack knowledge of proper ladder selection.
Insufficient ladder inspection: Practice regular inspection and maintenance to reduce the likelihood of ladder structural failure.
Improper ladder use: Examples of improper ladder use include overreaching while on the ladder; carrying objects while going up or down the ladder; and applying excessive force while on the ladder.
Lack of access to ladder safety tools and information: Use NIOSH’s Ladder Safety App, participate in free online training, and browse ladder safety resources on OSHA’s website.
Free Online Training
TTF Safety First! Fall Prevention and Protection: This course provides an overview of the safe practices for fall prevention and protection while working on the ground or at heights. Topics covered include housekeeping, slips and trips, the hierarchy of controls, ladder safety, travel restraint and fall arrest systems, and specifics related to elevated work platforms, rigging, and scaffold safety.
American Ladder Institute’s Ladder Safety Training: This free ladder safety training is a tool for the proper selection, care, and safe use of all ladders, including stepladders, single and extension ladders, articulated ladders, and mobile ladders.
Common Ladder Accidents and How to Avoid Them
This webinar covers the six most common causes of ladder accidents on the job site, discusses what the OSHA standard says, and shows practical solutions to the problems. The basic principles of ladder safety will also be discussed, including choosing the right ladder, inspection, set-up, and proper climbing.Monday, March 10 at noon EST | Register Here
Ladder Safety: Set Up & Pro Tips
Master essential ladder safety skills, including proper set-up techniques to ensure stability and prevent accidents. Learn pro tips on best practices, from thorough ladder inspections to maintaining the right posture while climbing. By the end of this session, you’ll gain the confidence and knowledge to use ladders safely and efficiently in any situation.
Monday, March 17 at 1 p.m. EST | Register Here
Get Involved
Ladder Safety Month is an opportunity to learn about ladder safety and to take measures to reduce ladder-related workplace injuries. We encourage you to take advantage of the available training resources, attend webinars, and share safety information with colleagues. By prioritizing ladder safety, we can ensure a safer working environment for everyone.
For more information on National Ladder Safety Month and to access additional resources, visit the American Ladder Institute's official website.