Book traversal links for Climbing Guidelines ‹ Fixed Ladders Up Storage and Maintenance › There are a few climbing guidelines that help to prevent accidents when using a portable ladder. Wear shoes with nonskid soles that are free of mud or grease. Clean ladder rungs of mud, grease, or ice before climbing. Place ladders on stable bases. Boxes, barrels, or other unstable surfaces should never be used to obtain additional height. If necessary, have another person hold the base of the ladder. If no one is available, the ladder should be securely lashed or fastened top and bottom to prevent it from slipping. Overreaching can cause instability. A good rule of thumb is to not let one's belt buckle outside the uprights. Always face the ladder and maintain a 3-point contact when climbing or descending. Always check to ensure tools and equipment have been removed from the top of the ladder before moving it. Only one person should climb a ladder at a time. Inspect ladders on a regular basis. See the Ladder Inspection Checklist.pdf for what to look for during the inspection. Book traversal links for Climbing Guidelines ‹ Fixed Ladders Up Storage and Maintenance › Resources NIOSH Ladder Safety AppLadder Inspection Checklist.pdf Staff Kelly States Assistant Director 609-258-2648 Jamie McQuaid Program Manager 609-258-5106