Anyone who uses a ladder on the job needs ladder safety training, including maintenance technicians, warehouse staff, electricians, painters and construction workers. In construction, OSHA 29 CFR 1926.1060 requires employers to train each employee who uses ladders and stairways. Even occasional users benefit, since falls from low heights can cause serious injuries.

Ladder safety is covered by OSHA 29 CFR 1910.23 for general industry and 29 CFR 1926.1053 for construction. These rules set requirements for ladder capacity, rung spacing, setup angle, inspection and use. Training requirements appear in 29 CFR 1910.30 for general industry and 29 CFR 1926.1060 for construction.

You shouldn't stand on the top step or top cap of a stepladder because it leaves nothing to hold for balance and makes the ladder easy to tip, even for a few seconds. Manufacturer labels mark the highest safe standing level. If you need to reach higher, switch to a taller ladder or platform.

The three points of contact rule means keeping two hands and one foot, or two feet and one hand, on the ladder at all times while climbing. It keeps the climber stable if a foot slips. Carry tools on a belt or hoist them up so both hands stay free for climbing.

Choose the right ladder for a job by matching its type, height, duty rating and material to the task. The duty rating must exceed the combined weight of the user, clothing and tools. Use fiberglass or wood, never metal, near electrical sources, and pick a length that avoids overreaching or standing too high.