Celebrating National Ladder Safety Month at Work

Importance

To ensure consistent ladder safety, the American Ladder Institute launched National Ladder Safety Month in 2017 to address the high risk of ladder-related injuries in the workplace. According to the US Centers for Disease Control (CDC), over 500,000 people suffer ladder-related injuries annually, with more than 300 fatalities—most from falls of 10 feet or less. This alarming statistic highlights the need for increased awareness and proper training to reduce accidents.

A different focus is set every year to help different organizations plan how to best celebrate this month, based on current ladder safety concerns. For 2025, National Ladder Safety Month will center on the following:

• Safe climbing and positioning
• Training and awareness
• Inspection and maintenance of ladders and related equipment
• Proper stabilization, setup, and accessories

Companies should observe National Ladder Safety Month to protect employees and minimize workplace injuries. Businesses can reduce accident rates and improve overall workplace safety by promoting ladder safety training, enforcing proper inspection procedures, and sharing best practices.

Common Risks When Working with Ladders

Companies looking to improve ladder safety need to understand the risks associated with ladders. That way, it will be easier to find the root of the problems and apply solutions to effectively lower the risks. So, here are some of the most common risks workers face when using ladders:

Falls

Falls are the most common ladder-related hazard, often caused by loss of balance, improper footing, or sudden shifts in weight. Even falls from low heights can result in serious injuries, making proper climbing techniques essential. Using fall protection and maintaining three points of contact can help prevent accidents while working at height.

Damaged Equipment

Ladders with broken rungs, bent rails, or worn-out feet increase the risk of collapse. Regular inspections are crucial to identify and remove unsafe ladders from use. Employees should always check for visible damage before climbing.

Improper Setup

Setting up a ladder on an unstable or slippery surface can cause it to shift or tip over. Ensuring a firm, level base and securing the ladder properly reduces this risk. Extension ladders should also be placed at the correct angle to maintain stability.

Overreaching

Leaning too far to the side while on a ladder can throw off balance and lead to a fall. Instead of overreaching, workers should climb down and reposition the ladder closer to the work area. Maintaining a centered position between the rails helps reduce the risk.

Climbing with Items

Carrying tools or materials while climbing a ladder forces workers to use one hand, increasing the likelihood of falling. Using a tool belt or hoisting materials separately keeps hands free for safe climbing. Maintaining three points of contact at all times also improves ladder safety.

How to Observe National Ladder Safety Month

The main goal of National Ladder Safety Month is to improve the overall ladder safety within an organization. There are many ways for teams to accomplish this such as holding events, seminars, and updating procedures. Here are some effective ways to increase workplace safety during National Ladder Safety Month:

Perform Ladder Inspections and Maintenance

Regular ladder inspections help identify worn-out or damaged equipment before it causes an accident. Digital checklists improve this process by standardizing inspections, ensuring all key safety points are checked, and keeping accurate records for compliance.

Alongside ladder inspections, it is also important to perform regular ladder maintenance checks. Proper maintenance, such as replacing worn-out feet or tightening loose bolts, also extends the ladder’s lifespan and keeps workers safe. Tasks related to this can be streamlined with digital forms as well, as they can reduce the need for paperwork and manual tasks, improving efficiency.

Promote Ladder Safety Audits

In addition to encouraging ladder inspections and maintenance checks, use National Ladder Safety Month to promote the use of digital safety audits. Safety audits assess how well employees follow ladder safety protocols and identify areas for improvement. These audits should include observing ladder use in real work environments, reviewing training effectiveness, and checking compliance with company policies. Regular audits reinforce a culture of safety and help prevent workplace incidents.

Distribute Ladder Safety Posters and Other Educational Materials

Visual reminders like posters and handouts reinforce best practices and keep ladder safety top of mind. Placing these materials in break rooms, job sites, and tool storage areas helps employees remember key safety principles. Digital materials, such as emails and videos, can also further expand awareness across teams with their ease of access.

Conduct Ladder Safety Training Sessions

Offering refresher courses during National Ladder Safety Month keeps safety knowledge up to date. Hands-on training sessions teach employees proper ladder setup, climbing techniques, and common hazards to avoid. Interactive training, including live demonstrations and practice scenarios, improves retention and encourages safer behaviors.

Update Current Safety Procedures

National Ladder Safety Month is a great time to assess current ladder safety practices. Reviewing and updating ladder safety procedures ensures they align with the latest safety standards and workplace needs. Companies should also assess whether new equipment, job conditions, or regulatory updates require changes in their policies. Keeping procedures current helps maintain compliance and reinforces a strong commitment to worker safety.