A Ladder Safety Guide in 2 Minutes

Safe ladder use rests on three pillars: stable setup using the 4-to-1 rule, three points of contact at all times while climbing, and keeping your body between the side rails while working. This 2-minute guide sums up the most important rules.

Have you ever felt vertigo when you had to climb a ladder? Proper ladder technique can help you overcome it - and mastering correct use is also essential from an occupational safety perspective. Let's look at the key points you absolutely must pay attention to.

Setting up the ladder

1. Always place the base of the ladder on stable ground and check that it cannot slip accidentally.
2. Follow the 4-to-1 rule! This means the base of the ladder should be one quarter of the ladder's height away from the wall - this gives you the optimal climbing angle.
3. If you are using an extension or folding ladder, always check that the locking points are properly secured.
4. Do not place the ladder in front of a window or door - this prevents someone inside from accidentally opening it onto you while you are up high.

Climbing

1. Always maintain at least three points of contact on the ladder (two feet and one hand, or two hands and one foot).
2. Place your feet as close to the middle of the rung as possible, and face the ladder while climbing.

Working on the ladder

1. Make sure your body always stays between the two side rails and do not lean out excessively - you could lose your balance and pull the ladder over with you.
2. Never step on the top rung! The ladder should always extend 90-100 cm above the work area.
3. Make sure your tools cannot fall while you work - falling objects can injure people passing or working below.