Last updated: May 8, 2026
A ladder does not need to be tall to hurt you.
Most people know that. Then they rush anyway because the job looks simple.
The quick answer
Before you climb, take ten seconds and check the ground, the angle, the feet, the top contact, and your own hands. If any one of those is wrong, fix it before your boots leave the ground.
Human Salt
My scaffolding fall while doing cedar siding taught me that falling is fast and explaining it later is slow. You do not get extra points for rushing into a preventable mistake.
The Watch Your Step rule applies to ladders too. Your next move is part of the job, not a break from the job.
The mistake people make
They trust the ladder because it held last time.
But last time is not a safety inspection. Ground changes. Shoes change. Weather changes. Your energy changes. A small wobble at the bottom can become a big problem at the top.
The better move
- Check that the feet are on solid, level ground.
- Check the angle before climbing.
- Check the top is secure and not resting on something loose.
- Keep three points of contact.
- Do not carry more than you can handle safely.
Watch the line
This is not a replacement for proper ladder training, fall protection, or workplace rules. If the job is high, unstable, electrical, or beyond your skill, get qualified help.
Homer’s bottom line
Ten seconds before climbing beats ten weeks wishing you had checked.
Planning a job that needs permits? Run the BC Permit Reality Check before you start swinging a hammer.
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