Ladder Safety 101: Protect Your Workers & Stay Compliant

Summary

Ladders—they’re everywhere. Whether you’re on a construction site, working in a warehouse, or just changing a lightbulb in the office, chances are you’ll need to climb one. But here’s the thing: ladders cause thousands of workplace injuries every year—many of them serious, some even fatal.

At Calgary Safety Consultants, we help businesses prevent ladder-related accidents by providing safety training, hazard assessments, and compliance solutions. So, let’s break down what every worker needs to know about ladder safety and how you can keep your team safe.


Why is Ladder Safety So Important?

Did you know falls from ladders account for 20% of all workplace fall injuries in Canada. https://www.ccohs.ca/oshanswers/safety_haz/ladders/

Common Ladder-Related Injuries Include:

  • Broken bones
  • Head injuries & concussions
  • Sprains & strains from overreaching
  • Severe spinal injuries from falls

And the biggest cause? Improper ladder use! Most accidents happen because workers:

  • Use the wrong type of ladder
  • Overreach while working
  • Use damaged or unstable ladders
  • Set up ladders improperly

Good news: These accidents are 100% preventable with proper training and safe work practices.

The Different Types of Ladders & When to Use Them

Not all ladders are created equal. Choosing the right type of ladder is a critical first step in preventing workplace accidents. Here’s a quick breakdown of the most common types and where they’re best used:

1. Step Ladders

  • Ideal for indoor maintenance, electrical work, and general repairs
  • Self-supporting A-frame design offers solid stability
  • Not suitable for tasks that require extended reach or height

2. Extension Ladders

  • Designed for high-access jobs such as roofing, painting, and window cleaning
  • Must be leaned against a secure surface for use
  • Never use on uneven or unstable ground

3. Platform Ladders

  • Offers a larger standing surface for better balance and comfort
  • Great for tasks that require more time spent at height
  • Commonly used in warehouse, retail, and stockroom environments

For more detailed guidance on ladder types and safe usage, visit the

https://www.ccohs.ca/oshanswers/safety_haz/ladders/types.html


1. Choose the Right Ladder for the Job

  • Always check the ladder’s weight capacity—each ladder has a specific load limit.
  • Make sure the ladder is tall enough for the task; never stand on the top rung.
  • Use non-conductive fiberglass ladders when working near electricity.

2. Inspect Before You Climb

  • Examine the ladder for cracks, bent frames, or missing rungs.
  • Confirm that all lock mechanisms are functioning properly.
  • If a ladder is damaged, tag it and remove it from service immediately.

3. Set It Up Correctly

  • Place ladders on a stable, level surface.
  • For extension ladders, follow the 4:1 rule—set the base 1 foot out for every 4 feet of height.
  • Secure both the top and bottom of the ladder to prevent shifting.

Learn more about setup best practices: https://www.ohscanada.com/ladder-safety-standards/

4. Climb Safely

  • Maintain three points of contact at all times—either two hands and one foot or two feet and one hand.
  • Always face the ladder while climbing and descending.
  • Keep your hands free by using a tool belt instead of carrying tools.

5. Don’t Overreach

  • Keep your belt buckle positioned between the side rails.
  • If you can’t reach comfortably, climb down and reposition the ladder.

Read more on safe climbing tips: https://www.canada.ca/en/employment-social-development/services/health-safety/reports/falls-ladders.html


Employer Responsibilities: Keeping Your Workers Safe

Alberta’s OH&S laws require employers to ensure proper ladder use in the workplace. This means:

  • Providing employees with ladder safety training
  • Inspecting ladders regularly
  • Implementing fall protection for high-risk jobs
  • Enforcing ladder safety procedures

Alberta OH&S Ladder Safety Regulations: https://www.alberta.ca/ohs-code.aspx

How Calgary Safety Consultants Can Help

At Calgary Safety Consultants, we provide expert guidance to keep your workplace ladder-safe and OH&S compliant.

Our Services Include:

  • Workplace ladder safety assessments to identify risks
  • Hands-on ladder safety training for employees
  • Customized fall protection plans
  • Compliance audits to meet Alberta OH&S standards

Need help with ladder safety at your workplace? Contact us today!
 https://calgarysafetyconsultants.ca/

Final Thoughts: Stay Safe & Avoid Costly Accidents!

Ladder safety isn’t complicated—but ignoring it can lead to serious injuries, legal trouble, and lost productivity. The right training and workplace policies can prevent falls, injuries, and costly downtime.

Want to improve ladder safety in your workplace? Let’s talk! Contact Calgary Safety Consultants for your complimentary consult to explore tailored OH&S solutions that drive real results. 

FAQs for Ladder Safety 101: Protect Your Workers & Stay Compliant

Ladders are one of the leading causes of workplace fall injuries. Using them incorrectly or unsafely can lead to serious falls, broken bones, head injuries, and even fatalities. Proper training and compliance with OH&S standards help prevent these accidents.

  • Using the wrong ladder for the job
  • Climbing with tools in hand
  • Overreaching instead of repositioning
  • Setting up a ladder on uneven or slippery surfaces
  • Skipping pre-use inspections for damage

A proper ladder safety training program should cover:

  • How to choose the right ladder for the job
  • Proper setup and positioning techniques
  • Fall protection measures
  • How to inspect ladders for damage
  • Safe climbing and descending procedures

Secure Your Workplace Safety Today

Calgary Safety Consultants is here to help you ensure compliance, enhance safety, and streamline your OH&S program. Don’t wait—fill out the form, and we’ll connect with you to discuss how we can support your business. Let’s get started!