March is Ladder Safety Month: Protecting Lives and Preventing Accidents

March is Ladder Safety Month, a time to raise awareness about the crucial role ladder safety plays in preventing workplace injuries and fatalities. Ladders are essential tools in various industries, especially in construction and maintenance, but improper use can lead to serious accidents. According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), falls from ladders are one of the leading causes of workplace injuries. By understanding and practicing ladder safety, businesses can significantly reduce the risk of accidents.

Common Ladder Hazards

Ladder-related incidents are often the result of improper setup, overreaching, or using the wrong type of ladder for the task. Slips, trips, and falls can occur when ladders are not placed on stable, level surfaces or when users fail to maintain three points of contact. Additionally, using damaged or defective ladders can increase the risk of structural failure.

Best Practices for Ladder Safety

To enhance ladder safety, employers and workers should:

• Choose the right ladder for the job, considering height, weight capacity, and task requirements.

• Inspect ladders before each use for any signs of damage or wear.

• Ensure ladders are set up on firm, level ground and secured to prevent movement.

• Maintain three points of contact (two hands and one foot or two feet and one hand) at all times.

• Avoid overreaching or leaning while on the ladder—always keep your body centered between the side rails.

Construction involves high-risk activities like falls, machinery hazards, heavy equipment incidents, and electrocutions. At NW Safety, Inc., we reduce these risks with tailored safety strategies and training for commercial construction and general industry. Our mission is to provide top-quality safety services that exceed client expectations and ensure safety on every job site.

This Ladder Safety Month, let’s prioritize safety by educating employees, enforcing best practices, and making safety a core value. Because at NW Safety, Inc., your safety is our priority.