Ladder safety is a critical issue in the construction industry, ranking among the top 10 most frequently cited standards following MIOSHA inspections of worksites. Falls from ladders account for a significant number of injuries and fatalities, making it essential for Michigan builders to follow best practices and comply with Michigan Occupational Safety and Health Administration (MIOSHA) regulations.
By understanding proper ladder selection, setup, use, and maintenance, builders can significantly reduce the risk of falls and avoid costly violations.
Why Ladder Safety Matters
Ladder-related violations are one of the most commonly cited safety issues on construction sites. Many injuries occur due to:
✔ Using the wrong type of ladder for the job
✔ Failing to secure the ladder properly
✔ Overreaching or carrying heavy loads while climbing
✔ Skipping inspections and maintenance
To stay compliant and keep workers safe, builders must follow MIOSHA standards and implement ladder safety best practices.
Selecting the Right Ladder
· Load Capacity: Choose a ladder that can support at least four times the maximum intended load. For extra-heavy-duty ladders (Type 1A), ensure they can sustain at least 3.3 times the load.
· Height Considerations: Select a ladder tall enough for the job—standing on the top step or rung is a serious safety violation.
· Material: When working near power lines or electrical sources, use a ladder with non-conductive side rails to prevent electrocution hazards.
Proper Ladder Setup
· Correct Angle: Position non-self-supporting ladders so that the base is one-quarter of the ladder’s working length away from the top support.
· Stable Foundation: Always set ladders on a firm, level surface and secure the base to prevent shifting.
· Secure Top Support: Extend the ladder at least 3 feet above the upper landing for safe access and secure it to prevent movement.
Safe Ladder Use
· Three-Point Contact: Always maintain three points of contact—two hands and one foot, or two feet and one hand—when climbing.
· Body Positioning: Keep your body centered between the ladder’s side rails and never overreach. Instead, climb down and reposition the ladder.
· Climbing and Descending: Always face the ladder while climbing and use both hands for support.
· Tool Carrying: Use a tool belt or rope instead of carrying tools by hand when climbing.
Ladder Inspection and Maintenance
· Pre-Use Inspections: Check ladders for structural defects, missing rungs, broken locks, or damaged side rails before each use.
· Keep Ladders Clean: Remove any oil, grease, or debris that could create a slipping hazard.
· Proper Storage: Store ladders in a dry, secure location to prevent warping, rust, or other damage.
Training and Compliance
· MIOSHA Requirements: Employers must provide training on ladder hazards and safe use practices under MIOSHA Construction Safety Standard Part 11.
· Employee Education: Workers should be trained to recognize ladder hazards and how to properly inspect, use, and store ladders.
· Stay Updated: Since ladder safety is one of the most frequently cited violations, builders should regularly review MIOSHA regulations to stay compliant and avoid penalties.
Prioritize Ladder Safety on Your Jobsite
With ladder safety among the top 10 most frequently cited violations, Michigan builders must take proactive steps to protect workers and prevent costly fines. Proper ladder selection, setup, use, and maintenance are essential to creating a safer workplace.
By following MIOSHA standards and promoting a culture of safety, builders can significantly reduce the risk of ladder-related incidents and keep job sites injury-free.
Sources
· MIOSHA (Michigan Occupational Safety and Health Administration) - Construction Safety Standard Part 11 (Fixed and Portable Ladders)
· OSHA Ladder Safety Guide (Adapted for MIOSHA Compliance)
- OSHA Publication 3660: Falling Off Ladders Can Kill: Use Them Safely
- OSHA Publication 3661: Portable Ladder Safety Quick Card
· MIOSHA Fact Sheet on Ladder Safety
· OSHA’s Top 10 Most Frequently Cited Violations (Ladder Safety Inclusion)
