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LADDER SAFETY

Selection, Setup, Use, and Inspection for Ontario Workplaces

Ladders cause more workplace injuries than almost any other piece of equipment — not because they are inherently dangerous, but because familiarity breeds complacency. Most serious ladder injuries occur on ladders under 4 metres high. This resource covers Ontario requirements, correct setup, and safe use principles.

Bullivant Health + Safety | bullivant.ca | 905-664-4943 | 158 S Service Road, Stoney Creek, ON
This resource is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.

1. Overview

  • Top 5: Source of workplace lost-time injuries across all Ontario industries
  • 4m: Average height of a fatal ladder fall — most serious falls are from low heights
  • 3-Point: Contact rule reduces fall risk by over 50% when consistently applied

 

LADDER TYPES CSA Z11 LOAD RATINGS
  • Step ladders — self-supporting. Never use the top two steps.
  • Extension ladders — lean against a solid surface. Must extend 1m above landing.
  • Platform ladders — stable standing surface for sustained work.
  • Multi-purpose ladders — flexible; must be configured correctly for each use.
  • Type IA (Extra Heavy Duty) — 136 kg — industrial/construction
  • Type I (Heavy Duty) — 113 kg — industrial use
  • Type II (Medium Duty) — 102 kg — commercial use
  • Type III (Light Duty) — 91 kg — household only, never in Ontario workplaces
  • Always select a rating for your weight plus tools and materials

 

FIBERGLASS FOR ELECTRICAL WORK

Never use a metal or wooden ladder near electrical hazards. Fiberglass ladders are non-conductive and must be used whenever there is any possibility of contact with live electrical equipment or wiring.

2. Setup & Positioning

  1. Inspect before every use — check for cracks, broken rungs, bent side rails, missing feet, and damaged locks. Damaged ladders must be removed from service.
  2. Clear and level the base — feet must rest on a firm, level surface. Never prop the base with scrap material.
  3. Set the correct angle for extension ladders — the 4:1 rule: base 1 unit out for every 4 units of height. Test: stand at base, toes against feet, palms should just touch a rung at shoulder height.
  4. Secure the top and bottom — tie off to the structure or have a worker hold the ladder. Secure the base. Never leave an unsecured ladder unattended.
  5. Ensure correct extension overlap: up to 11m — 90cm; 11–14.5m — 1.2m; over 14.5m — 1.5m.
  6. Keep a 2-metre exclusion zone around the base of any ladder in use.

3. Safe Use Principles

  • Three points of contact at all times: two hands and one foot, or two feet and one hand, whenever ascending, descending, or working
  • Face the ladder: always face the rungs — never climb or descend with your back to the ladder
  • Keep hips between the rails: leaning outside shifts your centre of gravity. If you must reach, descend and reposition
  • Do not carry materials while climbing: use a tool belt, hoist rope, or bucket hook to keep both hands free
  • One person at a time: never have two workers on the same portable ladder simultaneously
  • Do not use the top steps: top two steps of a stepladder; top three rungs of an extension ladder
  • Never use a ladder horizontally: ladders are not designed for horizontal loading as scaffold planks or walkways

 

GENERAL INFORMATION NOTICE

This resource is for general informational purposes only. Consult O. Reg. 851 or O. Reg. 213/91 and the Ministry of Labour for requirements specific to your workplace.