Ladders and Step Ladders

Read and follow the manufacturer's instructions label affixed to the ladder if you are unsure how to use the ladder.
Do not use ladders that have loose rungs, cracked or split side rails, missing rubber foot pads, or are otherwise visibly damaged.
Keep ladder rungs clean and free of grease. Remove buildup of material such as dirt or mud.
Do not use a metal ladder on roof tops nor within 50 feet of electrical power lines.
Do not place ladders in a passageway or doorway without posting warning signs or cones that detour pedestrian traffic away from the ladder. Lock the doorway that you are blocking with the ladder and post signs that will detour traffic away from your work.
Do not place a ladder at a blind corner or doorway without diverting foot traffic by blocking or roping off the area.
Allow only one person on the ladder at a time.
Face the ladder when climbing up or down it.
Maintain a three-point contact by keeping both hands and one foot or both feet and one hand on the ladder at all times when climbing up or down the ladder.
When performing work from a ladder, face the ladder and do not lean backward or sideways from the ladder.
Do not stand on tables, chairs, boxes or other improvised climbing devices to reach high places. Use the ladder or stepstool.
Do not stand on the top two rungs of any ladder.
Do not stand on a ladder that wobbles, or that leans to the left or right of center.
When using a ladder, extend the top of the ladder at least 3 feet above the edge of the landing.
Secure the ladder in place by having another employee hold it.
Do not move a rolling ladder while someone is on it.
Do not place ladders on barrels, boxes, loose bricks, pails, concrete blocks or other unstable bases.
Do not carry items in your hands while climbing up or down a ladder.
Do not try to "walk" a ladder by rocking it. Climb down the ladder, and then move it.
Do not use a ladder as a horizontal platform.