A-Frame Ladder Safety Series, Part 1
Know Your Ladder Before You Climb
Step ladders are everywhere on job sites, and that's exactly why they're such a big safety concern. Because they're so versatile and handy, there's a real temptation to push them beyond their limits or use them the wrong way.
First Things First: What Kind of Ladder Are You Using?
Not all step ladders are created equal. A traditional A-frame step ladder has one crucial rule: you can only climb one side. The side with the actual rungs is where you belong. Never climb the back side unless your ladder is specifically designed for that purpose.
Perform a Pre-Use Inspection
Before you even think about stepping on that ladder, give it a thorough look-over.
Start with the label. Every ladder should have a manufacturer's label that tells you everything you need to know about weight limits, proper use, and safety guidelines. Can you read it clearly? If it's worn, covered in paint, mud, or concrete, or completely illegible, that's a problem you need to address.
Here's a pro tip from our team: when you first get a new ladder, take a picture of that label before you add your company markings or inventory numbers. If the label gets damaged later, you can replace it with the exact specifications as long as you know what the original said.
Check the whole ladder systematically:
Look for cracks, bends, or damage in the rails and rungs
Inspect the feet, make sure the grips are still there and in good condition
Clean off any paint, dirt, or debris that might hide damage during your visual inspection
Know the Rules: A-Frame Means A-Frame
A traditional A-frame step ladder should never be leaned against a wall. That's not what it's designed for, and doing so puts you at serious risk.
There are other types of ladders that look similar but are engineered differently for different uses. We'll cover those in future segments, but for now, remember that if you have a traditional A-frame step ladder, it stays in the A-frame position, period.
Reading the Signs
Modern ladders often feature visual instructions with pictures alongside text in multiple languages. This isn't just about compliance – it's about making sure everyone on your crew, regardless of their primary language or reading level, can use equipment safely.
These visual guides show you both the right way and the wrong way to use the ladder. Take a few minutes to go through these with new team members. Never assume someone knows how to use a ladder properly, even if it seems obvious. Different types of work call for different types of ladders, and what might seem straightforward can actually be quite complex.