Why Ladder Safety Training Matters In Construction And General Industry

Ladders are used every day in construction and general industry jobs. Whether it’s changing a light fixture in a warehouse or working on a rooftop during a build, ladders are part of the job. But while they may seem simple to use, ladders are involved in thousands of workplace injuries each year. In fact, ladder-related incidents are one of the leading causes of workplace injuries and fatalities in the United States. While this may seem distressing, the good news is that these accidents are often preventable—and that’s where training plays a key role.

Ladder safety training is crucial for employees in construction and general industry jobs, who likely use ladders on a weekly—or even daily—basis. Anyone using a ladder this often must be aware of the correct way to use a ladder and the risks associated when using one. As an employer, it’s your responsibility to make sure your workers are properly trained on ladder safety. When you invest in training, you’re not just protecting your employees—you’re also reducing downtime, avoiding costly OSHA penalties, and building a culture of safety that benefits your entire organization. In this article, we will explain why ladder safety training is essential in both construction and general industry, and what steps you should take to keep your team safe.

Ladders are used for a wide range of tasks across different industries. In construction, they’re used to access rooftops, install electrical systems, or perform framing. In general industry, workers use ladders to reach high shelves, clean machinery, or do maintenance work. Because ladders are so common, it’s easy to overlook the risks, but the fact is that frequent use increases the chance of accidents. Many employees use ladders multiple times a day, often in tight or unpredictable environments, and oftentimes, one small mistake—like placing a ladder on uneven ground or standing on the top step—can lead to serious injuries.

Different jobs call for different types of ladders. There are several types of ladders used across job sites, including:

• Step Ladders: A self-supporting ladder commonly used indoors or on flat surfaces.
• Extension Ladders: A non-self-supporting ladder that requires a stable structure to lean against; used for reaching high places like roofs or tall walls.
• Platform Ladders: Feature a larger standing surface at the top and often include guardrails; ideal for long-duration tasks at a fixed height.
• Fixed Ladders: Permanently attached to a structure, such as silos or tanks in industrial settings.
• Folding Ladders or Multi-Position Ladders: Can be configured in various ways and used in tight spaces.

Each type of ladder has different safety requirements. Without proper training, employees may not choose the right ladder for the job—or use it incorrectly when they do.

In construction, falls are the leading cause of death—and ladders are often involved. In general industry, falls from ladders are one of the top reasons workers miss time on the job. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, more than 100 workers die each year from ladder-related falls, and thousands more are injured. Moreso, according to the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), in 2020 alone there were 161 workplace fatalities and 22,710 injuries from ladders.

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) consistently ranks fall protection and ladder violations among the top ten most frequently cited workplace safety violations. In 2024, 29 CFR 1926.1053, the safety standard for ladders in construction, was the fourth most cited standard across all industries, with 2,897 violations.

The most common causes of ladder accidents include:

• Improper ladder use
• Improper ladder setup
• Inappropriate ladder selection
• Insufficient ladder inspection

Overreaching, incorrect ladder placement, using damaged ladders, and improper climbing techniques can all lead to serious injuries, which, in turn, can lead to a loss in productivity, OSHA citations, and damage to a company’s reputation. This makes ladder safety training absolutely vital for employers who wish to avoid these consequences.

A solid ladder safety training program prepares your workers to handle ladders correctly from the start. Whether training new hires or refreshing experienced workers, your training should cover the following essential topics:

• Choosing the Right Ladder: Not every ladder is suitable for every job. Workers must understand how to choose the correct height and type of ladder, as well as the differences between the five standard ANSI ladder duty ratings (Type III, Type II, Type I, Type IA, Type IAA).
• Inspecting Ladders Before Use: Before any ladder is used, it should be inspected for damage or wear, including cracks, bent parts, loose screws, or missing hardware.
• Proper Ladder Setup and Positioning: Accidents often happen before anyone even climbs the ladder. Workers should be trained on setting up ladders on stable, level ground, and on the 4-to-1 rule for extension ladders (for every 4 feet of height, the base should be 1 foot away from the wall).
• Climbing and Working Safely: It’s important to train employees on correct climbing practices, such as maintaining three points of contact at all times and not standing on the top step of a ladder. They must also know how to conduct work safely while on a ladder, as well as when fall protection is required.

Ladder Storage and Maintenance: Workers must know to store ladders in a dry location, clean them regularly, and report and tag damaged ladders so they are not used.

Ladder safety is not just a best practice—it’s a legal requirement. Because of this, OSHA has clear standards for ladder safety:

• Construction falls under 29 CFR 1926.1053
• General industry falls under 29 CFR 1910.23

Under both standards, employers must:

• Provide a safe working environment, including proper ladder equipment
• Train workers to recognize and avoid ladder hazards
• Ensure ladders meet OSHA specifications
• Inspect ladders regularly and remove unsafe ones from service

As an employer, we strongly recommend you familiarize yourself with these OSHA standards. If you don’t follow these rules, your company could face citations, fines, or even legal action—especially if an injury occurs.

Ladders are a simple, but essential tool on many job sites. However, while they are necessary, their routine use can create a false sense of security, only to be broken when someone inevitably gets hurt. Ladder-related injuries are often severe and costly, but they are also entirely preventable with the right training and oversight.

As an employer, you have the power to protect your workers and strengthen your business by making ladder safety a top priority. Here’s what you can do:

• Enroll your workers in a certified ladder safety course
• Integrate ladder training into your onboarding process and safety meetings
• Schedule regular refresher training, especially for employees who use ladders frequently
• Perform regular audits and inspections of ladder use and ladder condition
• Make OSHA resources available to your team, such as posters, checklists, and guidelines

For more information, take a look at OSHA’s Ladder Safety Guidelines, both for Construction and for General Industry. You can also consult your local OSHA office or industry safety consultants for training recommendations.

Training gives workers the knowledge and confidence to use ladders the right way every time. When workers are trained to use ladders safely, the whole team benefits. Fewer injuries, fewer delays, lower costs, and better compliance all add up to a stronger, safer workplace.

Don’t wait for an injury before taking action; invest in ladder safety training today!

Safety Instruct’s online safety training courses help to educate employees on workplace safety and health regulations, policies, and best practices. These courses cover a wide range of topics—including Ladder Safety—all designed to fit the needs of various industries. To find the courses you need for your business today, click the link below!

https://www.safetyinstruct.com/