5. Use Safe Work Practices

• always follow manufacturer’s recommendations for proper use
• tie, block or otherwise secure the ladder to prevent it from being displaced
• when climbing, descending or working on ladders always face the ladder and keep 3 alternate contact points (two feet and one hand or two hands and one foot)
         
• whenever possible perform your work in-line with the ladder, not on either side
  • if you need to perform work on either side of the ladder have a co-worker hold the ladder
• only use extension ladders to access and come down from elevated landings and work surfaces
  • extend the ladder used for access at least 36 inches above the elevated landing or work surface
• make sure hinges on stepladders are fully open and locked
  
• have co-workers hand up tools and equipment instead of carrying them when on a ladder
  
• wear shoes with slip resistant soles
• clean mud and other slippery substances off your shoes and ladder rungs before climbing the ladder
• only one person at a time should be on a given ladder unless the ladder is specially designed to hold more than one person at a time (e.g., double sided or mechanics ladders)
• when moving an extension ladder always retract the “fly” section(s)
• when carrying a ladder keep the back section(s) lower than the front
• store ladders to protect them from weathering effects
• when using extension ladders consider using fall protection systems

• use damaged or defective ladders or ladders inappropriate for the specific job
• hand carry loads or equipment while on a ladder
  
• reach to the point where you loose your balance; move the ladder instead
• stand or work on the top cap or the step below the top cap of a stepladder
• stand or work on the top 3 rungs of an extension ladder
     
• place ladders on boxes, barrels, pick- up trucks or scaffolds or equipment
  
• use portable ladders in a horizontal position as a plank, platform, runaway, or scaffold
• splice together short ladders to make longer ladders
• use ladders with only a single rail