Anytime you use a ladder or stepladder to tackle a job, safety is a must. Falls can cause serious injuries. To help avoid falls, do this when using a ladder.
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<h2>Learn ladder safety basics</h2>
<ol>
 <li> Check for damage before each use.</li>
 <li>Use on a sturdy and level, non-slippery surface.</li>
 <li>Keep at least one hand on the ladder at all times. </li>
 <li>Never use the top rung or cap as a step.</li>
 <li>Don&rsquo;t carry objects that could cause you to lose your balance. </li>
 <li>Never overreach on the ladder. </li>
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Sources: American Ladder Institute; Occupational Safety and Health Administration
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Take falls seriously
If you fall, seek medical help, especially if you think you have a head or back injury.
Reviewed 3/1/2023
Sources
<ul>
 <li>American Ladder Institute. "Basic Ladder Safety." <a target="_blank" href="https://www.americanladderinstitute.org/page/BasicLadderSafety">https://www.americanladderinstitute.org/page/BasicLadderSafety</a>. </li>
 <li>Occupational Safety and Health Administration. "Reducing Falls in Construction: Safe Use of Stepladders." <a target="_blank" href="https://www.osha.gov/sites/default/files/publications/OSHA3662.pdf">https://www.osha.gov/sites/default/files/publications/OSHA3662.pdf</a>. </li>
 <li>Occupational Safety and Health Administration. "Standard Number 1910.23 &ndash; Ladders." 
 <a target="_blank" href="https://www.osha.gov/laws-regs/regulations/standardnumber/1910/1910.23">https://www.osha.gov/laws-regs/regulations/standardnumber/1910/1910.23</a>. </li>
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Use a ladder safely