603 Stairway and Ladder Safety

Working on the Ladder

Workers use two basic methods for climbing and working on ladders, a less safe "three-point-contact" method, and a much more safe "three-point-control" method. This look at how these two methods differ.

Three-Point-Contact is Less Safe

When using the three-point-contact method, the worker may depend on any three points of body contact with the ladder to provide stability. However, using parts of the body such as the stomach, legs, forearm, shoulder, or palms of the hand are actually unreliable and can lead to a false sense of stability.

Although some argue leaning against a surface is acceptable as a point of contact; however, there is a significant problem with this assumption. For example, if a worker has both feet on a ladder while resting one palm on the roof they cannot prevent a fall if both feet were to slip.

Because the three-point-contact method does not require reliable, stable support, and is less likely to prevent a fall, it is not the preferred method to use when on a ladder. Don't use it.

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