Safely Working at Height

February 23, 2026

In 2023, 725 workers were killed after a fall to a lower level, according to Injury Facts – an online statistical database managed by the National Safety Council. Falls to a lower level, which includes ladder-related falls, is the third leading “fatal workplace event.”

Are your workers properly trained in ladder safety?

March is Ladder Safety Month, so make ladder safety the focus of your next safety meeting. Remind workers that when they’re selecting a ladder to use, they need to ask these questions:

• Will the ladder hold my weight?

• Is it in good condition?

• Is it tall enough for the job at hand?

Once the ladder is positioned:

• Is it fully opened and locked?

• Is it on a hard, flat non-movable surface?

• Does it lean against a secure, unmovable surface?

• Is it in front of a door?

NSC says to remind workers about the 4-to-1 ratio: A straight or extension ladder should be positioned 1 foot away from its support surface for every 4 feet of ladder height.

More tips:

• Windows and doors aren’t stable surfaces to lean a ladder on.

• Straight or extension ladders should be securely fastened to an upper support.

• Step ladders need to be completely open before climbing.

• Don’t climb higher than the third rung from the top.

• Maintain three points of contact (two feet and one hand or one foot and two hands) when climbing.

• Face the ladder as you climb.