What are the safe work practices to prevent a fall while working from ladders?

• A. Keep your body centered, face the ladder, maintain three points of contact
• B. Stand on the top rung
• C. Climb with one hand
• D. Lean to the side of the ladder

Answer: (A)

Maintaining three points of contact while facing the ladder and staying centered over its base is essential for preventing falls. Three points of contact means you always have at least three contact points with the ladder—such as two hands and one foot, or two feet and one hand—so your balance is stable and you have a secure grip as you move. This setup reduces the chance that a small slip will turn into a fall because you’re not relying on a single point of support.

Facing the ladder helps keep your body aligned with the rails, giving you a clear view of each step and preventing twisting or overreaching that can throw you off balance. Staying centered over the ladder’s base keeps your weight over the supporting surface, which lowers the risk of tipping.

Why the other options aren’t safe: standing on the top rung removes a solid foothold and makes you much more prone to losing balance; climbing with one hand reduces contact and control, increasing the likelihood of a slip; leaning to the side shifts your weight away from the center and can cause the ladder to skid or tip.