Keep three points of contact with the ladder: two hands and one foot, or two feet and one hand, at all times while climbing. When you are working, keep a hand on the ladder wherever you can.
How to climb safely
- Face the ladder and hold the rungs, not the stiles, when climbing.
- Move one hand or foot at a time, slowly.
- Carry tools in a belt or pouch so both hands are free.
- Keep your centre of gravity between the stiles. Don't lean out; move the ladder instead.
- Wear clean, flat, grippy shoes and keep the rungs clean.
- Don't stand on the top three rungs of a leaning ladder, so you always have something to hold.
If you need both hands for the job
If the task means letting go for more than a moment, a ladder isn't the right equipment. Use a platform step ladder with a handrail, a podium step or a scaffold tower.