I was working on a roof, and the only way to get up and down was using a ladder.
I’d need my tools up there, so I packed them into my tool bag and put them over my shoulder. I didn’t want to take two trips, but couldn’t fit it all in my pack. I decided to carry what was left of the material so I would only have to climb the ladder once.
I was nearly at the top when I missed the next rung and slipped. With only one hand on the ladder, I scrambled to get back onto it. I almost didn’t make it back on. If I hadn’t, I would’ve fallen over ten feet to the ground.
The three points of contact is a simple rule for climbing up and down ladders safely. But in a lot of workplaces, it is rarely enforced.
The rule can be summed up as:
“Always maintain three points of bodily contact with a surface when climbing.”
In other words, when a worker is climbing up or down a ladder, a scaffold, or vehicle, they need to keep either both hands and one foot or two feet and one hand in contact with the surface at all times.
When three points of contact are maintained, the individual’s center of gravity is controlled and they are a lot less likely to lose their balance and fall.
Maintaining three points of contact won’t necessarily prevent all slips and falls. However, even when one does occur, the damage will likely be less severe. When the force resulting from a slip or fall is applied to a body through three points of contact (rather than two or fewer), the strain of impact is lessened.
Safety and Productivity
Following the three-point contact rules means climbing slowly and methodically, moving one limb at a time. It might seem inefficient, but it’s worth it when you consider the reduced risk of falls and injuries.
It might also mean making multiple trips if you’re hauling tools or materials to a higher or lower work surface. If you’re worried that this will have a noticeable impact on productivity, consider using a pulley system to safely and quickly move things from one level to another.
Quick Ladder Safety Tips
- Keep steps and rungs clear of debris, snow, mud, and ice
- Report rung and step damage to a supervisor immediately
- Wear slip-resistant footwear with a good tread
- Ascend and descend slowly
- Be sure you have a firm grip on the rails before taking the next step
- Never jump to the ground – always climb down step by step