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Free toolbox talk: extension ladder setup
A one-page ladder safety talk for your next crew meeting: why it matters, six key points with the OSHA citations, three questions for the crew and a sign-in block. Read it below or print the PDF.
Download the printable PDF (1 page)
Extension Ladders: Setup
Why it matters. Most ladder falls start with a bad setup: wrong angle, soft footing, or a ladder that is too short. Two minutes of setup prevents most of them.
Key points
- Set the base about 1 ft out for every 4 ft of working length, the 4-to-1 rule (1926.1053(b)(5)(i)).
- When used to reach an upper landing, side rails must extend at least 3 ft above it, or the top must be secured with a grab device (1926.1053(b)(1)).
- Use the ladder on stable, level footing. Secure it if it could be displaced, and barricade it in busy areas.
- Pick the right duty rating for your weight plus tools and material.
- Use nonconductive side rails where you or the ladder could contact energized electrical equipment (1926.1053(b)(12)).
- Inspect before use. Tag out and remove ladders with damaged rails, rungs or feet.
Ask the crew
- How do you check a ladder's angle quickly on site?
- What would make you say 'this ladder is too short for the job'?
- Where are our damaged ladders tagged and stored?
Reference: 29 CFR 1926.1053 | osha.gov/laws-regs/regulations/standardnumber/1926/1926.1053
Sign-in
Date ______ · Job site ______ · Talk leader ______
| # | Printed name | Signature | Company / trade |
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The printable PDF has 12 sign-in lines.
How to run it
- Hold it next to a real extension ladder on your site.
- Read the key points, then have someone set the ladder at 4-to-1 while the crew checks it.
- Ask the three questions and let the crew answer.
- Have everyone sign, and file the page with your safety records.
A training aid that supplements your safety program. Not a substitute for required training, a written safety program, a site-specific hazard assessment, or a competent or qualified person where OSHA requires one. OSHA references are federal (29 CFR 1926 and related parts), checked October 2026; state-plan states may have stricter rules. Not legal advice.
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