Ladders are one of the most commonly used tools on Ontario job sites, yet they continue to be involved in many workplace injuries every year. Whether you’re working in construction, maintenance, warehousing, landscaping, or facilities management, taking a few extra minutes to use a ladder properly can prevent a life-changing fall.

Why Ladder Safety Matters

Many workers assume that falls only happen from significant heights. In reality, serious injuries often occur from relatively short falls. Improper ladder setup, overreaching, damaged equipment, and rushing the job are some of the most common causes of ladder-related incidents.

Under Ontario’s Occupational Health and Safety Act, employers must provide workers with information, instruction, supervision, and appropriate equipment to perform their work safely.

Before You Climb

Always inspect your ladder before use. Look for:

  • Cracked or bent rails
  • Loose or missing rungs
  • Damaged feet or non-slip pads
  • Signs of excessive wear or corrosion

If a ladder is damaged, remove it from service immediately. A defective ladder should never be used.

Safe Ladder Setup

A ladder should always be placed on a firm, stable surface and secured against slipping. Extension ladders should be positioned at the proper angle—approximately one metre out for every four metres of ladder height. Ontario regulations require ladders to be placed on secure footing and stabilized to prevent movement.

Avoid placing ladders:

  • On uneven ground
  • On slippery surfaces
  • In front of doorways without barriers
  • Near vehicle or pedestrian traffic without proper protection

Follow the Three-Point Contact Rule

One of the simplest ways to reduce the risk of a fall is to maintain three points of contact at all times—either two hands and one foot, or two feet and one hand. This helps maintain balance while climbing and descending.

Workers should also:

  • Face the ladder when climbing
  • Keep their body centered between the rails
  • Avoid carrying tools in their hands while climbing
  • Never overreach beyond the side rails

Don’t Stand on the Top Step

Step ladders are designed to be used with the spreaders fully opened and locked. Standing on the top cap or top step significantly increases the risk of losing balance and falling. Ontario regulations specifically prohibit workers from standing on the top of a step ladder.

Choose the Right Equipment

A ladder is not always the safest option. If the work requires extended periods at height, heavy materials, or both hands to complete the task, a scaffold, aerial lift, or elevated work platform may be the safer choice. Ontario guidance recommends using a work platform whenever feasible rather than relying on a ladder.

Training Saves Lives

Workers should receive training on ladder selection, inspection, setup, and safe use. For many construction activities involving fall hazards, Working at Heights training may also be required under Ontario regulations. Proper training helps workers identify hazards before an incident occurs.

Final Thoughts

A ladder may seem like a simple tool, but using it incorrectly can have serious consequences. Taking the time to inspect your equipment, set it up properly, maintain three points of contact, and choose the right access equipment for the task can significantly reduce the risk of injury.

At Auspice Safety, we believe that every worker deserves to go home safely at the end of the day. Ladder safety starts with planning, training, and making safe choices before your feet ever leave the ground. Check out our Online Ladder Safety Course