Maintenance Helper how-to

How to Set Up a Ladder Safely

Falls are a top injury.

Updated By the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team
Quick answer

Falls are a top injury. In short: inspect; set; use, then complete the remaining steps below.

Step by step

  1. Inspect the ladder.

  2. Set on firm ground.

  3. Use the 4-to-1 angle.

  4. Extend 3 feet above landings.

  5. Keep three points of contact.

  6. Don’t overreach.

Safety reminders for maintenance helpers

  • Follow lockout/tagout
  • Wear PPE
  • Use ladders safely
  • Lift with your legs

Helper · Work order · Lockout/tagout · PPE · Apprenticeship · Journeyman: see the full maintenance helper glossary.

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