March is Ladder Safety Month!
Now is the perfect time to reinforce the importance of ladder safety and the simple steps that can help prevent serious workplace accidents.
Ladders are indispensable tools across various industries, yet their misuse contributes significantly to workplace injuries and fatalities. According to the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons, in 2023, approximately 500,000 people were treated for ladder-related injuries, with 300 of these incidents proving fatal. Additionally, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) reported multiple fatal incidents involving ladders in 2024, highlighting the ongoing need for vigilance and proper safety measures.
There are several reasons why people are injured or killed each year as a result of accidents related to ladder usage. Some of the main causes include sliding of the ladder base and the ladder itself tipping sideways. Many people also sustain back injuries as a result of improper carrying and/or setting up of the ladders.
These statistics underscore the critical need for proper ladder safety training and adherence to established guidelines to prevent such tragedies.
To minimize the risk of falls and injuries, follow these key ladder safety tips:
- Choose the Right Ladder: Ensure the ladder is appropriate for the task and can support the necessary weight.
- Inspect Before Use: Always check for damaged or missing rungs, loose screws, or other defects.
- Set Up Properly: Place ladders on a stable, level surface and secure them as needed.
- Maintain Three Points of Contact: Keep two hands and one foot, or two feet and one hand, on the ladder at all times.
- Don’t Overreach: Keep your belt buckle between the ladder rails and move the ladder if necessary.
- Wear Proper Footwear: Slip-resistant shoes can help prevent slips and falls.
More Resources:
- Blog Post - The Importance of Ladder Safety
- Blog Post - 8 Best Practices for Ladder Safety in the Workplace
- Beacon Mutual’s Ladder Safety Guide
- Beacon Mutual's Ladder Selection Guide
- OSHA’s Ladder Safety Standards
- CDC's Ladder Safety
- American Ladder Institute Ladder Safety
Visit the Safety Library to download our Safety Alerts: Ladder Safety and Ladder Selection.
Register for a free Ladder Safety Training Seminar!
Beacon Mutual is committed to workplace safety, and we’re hosting a Ladder Safety Training Seminar on April 10 at our headquarters. Ladder Safety & Fall Protection (Hands On) covers key factors for safe ladder usage, choosing the right ladder for the job, inspecting the ladder before each use, and ensuring proper set up and usage of the ladder.
To register or learn more, visit our Safety Seminars & Webinars page.
