News Feed

Ladder Safety: Preventing Construction’s Most Common Fall Hazard

Jun
3
During the busy summer season, ladder safety should be top of mind on site. 
 
Falls from ladders are the leading cause of fall-related injuries in construction. Root causes include placing the ladder incorrectly, not securing the ladder properly and lack of pre-job planning or hazard awareness. Training and education are important for everyone to understand how to use ladders safely for every job.
 
The SCSA is calling on members in residential home building, commercial and industrial construction, and the construction trades to take the right steps and make ladder safety a priority. Falls from ladders are highly preventable with proper planning, knowledge, equipment selection and worksite habits.

 

Safety Starts Before the Climb

Ladder safety begins with the basics:
 
  • Conduct a hazard assessment before starting work
  • Choose the right ladder for the task
  • Set up the ladder on firm, level ground 
  • Secure it properly
  • Face the ladder and maintain 3-point contact when climbing

New Tool To Assess Ladders Before Use

To support members in reducing ladder-related injuries, the SCSA has launched a Ladder Assessment Tool. This easy-to-use resource was developed in collaboration with WorkSafe Saskatchewan and industry leaders. It guides workers and supervisors through ladder-specific hazard assessments as part of their pre-job planning. It’s available at no cost and can be used as often as needed—especially valuable during the high-volume summer months.
 

Resources Available to Members

In addition to the new tool, the SCSA also provides the following resources and training:
 
Visit WorkSafe Saskatchewan for additional materials:
 
By encouraging proactive planning and consistent safe work practices, the SCSA aims to help members take the right steps to climb smart and stay safe. Reach out to an SCSA Advisor for more information.