Learn to inspect a ladder before your shift, set up a portable ladder, climb it the way the rule requires, and use a stepladder correctly. Short lessons, knowledge checks, a scenario and a final quiz.
Based on OSHA 29 CFR 1910.23 (Ladders) · general industry · about 4 min read
Need proof of training? The full course (15 min) adds practice questions, a job scenario, the final quiz and a certificate your employer can verify.
Your employer must ensure that each ladder is inspected before its first use in each work shift, and more often when needed, to find visible defects that could cause injury. Making that look part of your routine is how you do your part.
Look for visible damage to rails, rungs, steps and feet
Check that the ladder surfaces have no puncture or laceration hazards, such as splinters or sharp edges
On a wooden ladder, watch for paint or coatings that could hide a crack or other structural defect
More often as necessary. A good practice: if a ladder is dropped or struck during the shift, look it over again before you climb.
If you find a ladder with a structural or other defect, the rule is clear. Your employer must ensure it is immediately tagged "Dangerous: Do Not Use" or with similar language, and removed from service until it is repaired or replaced.
Do not climb it "just this once"
Tell your supervisor so the tag is applied and the ladder is taken out of use
Leave the tag in place for the next person
Reference: 29 CFR 1910.23(b)(10)
Set it up safely
Stable base, every time
For portable ladders, your employer must ensure:
The ladder is used only on stable and level surfaces, unless it is secured or stabilized to prevent accidental displacement
A ladder used on a slippery surface is secured and stabilized
Ladders are not placed on boxes, barrels or other unstable bases to gain height
If you cannot reach the work, get a taller ladder. Do not build height under the one you have.
Top support: the top of a non-self-supporting ladder is placed so both side rails are supported, unless the ladder has a single support attachment
Getting onto a roof or platform: the side rails must extend at least 3 feet (0.9 m) above the upper landing surface
No added length: ladders or ladder sections are not tied or fastened together unless they are specifically designed for it
Passageways, doorways, driveways: a ladder where activity or traffic could displace it must be secured, or guarded by a temporary barricade such as traffic cones or caution tape
Uses at least one hand to grasp the ladder when climbing up and down
Does not carry any object or load that could cause a loss of balance and a fall
If a tool will not fit in a pocket or tool belt without throwing you off balance, raise it with a rope or have a coworker hand it up once you are in position. That is good practice, not a separate rule.
Maximum intended load: a ladder is not loaded beyond it. That load includes the total load (weight and force) of you and all the tools, equipment and materials you carry
No moving while you are on it: a ladder is not moved, shifted or extended while an employee is on it. Climb down first
Right ladder for the job: ladders are used only for the purposes for which they were designed
Spreader or locking device: a stepladder has a metal spreader or locking device that securely holds the front and back sections open while the ladder is in use. Open it fully and make sure it is locked before you climb
Not the top: the cap (if equipped) and the top step of a stepladder are not used as steps
Fact-checked against the regulation text on October 09, 2026. This certificate records completion of awareness training based on OSHA 29 CFR 1910.23(b) and (c) (general requirements for all ladders and portable ladders). It is not an OSHA card or license, and it does not by itself meet the training requirements of 29 CFR 1910.30. Your employer must still train you in the proper care, inspection, storage, and use of the ladders and other equipment covered by 29 CFR 1910 Subpart D before you use them, provide fall hazard training by a qualified person if you use personal fall protection systems, and retrain you when required.
This guide explains the rule in plain words. Always read the regulation itself and your employer's site-specific procedures.