Which practice is essential for safe ladder use?

• A. Maintain three points of contact.
• B. Climb with two hands full.
• C. Place ladder on uneven ground.
• D. Skip inspections.

Answer: (A)

Maintaining three points of contact is the essential safety practice because it keeps you securely connected to the ladder at all times, providing maximum stability as you climb or descend. With three contact points—two hands and one foot, or two feet and one hand—the ladder supports your weight even if you momentarily shift or encounter a wobble, reducing the risk of a sudden fall. This principle also encourages staying centered and moving slowly, so you can grip firmly and adjust your position without overreaching or losing balance. To stay safe, keep one or both hands free for gripping only when needed, avoid carrying objects up the ladder, and make sure the ladder is on a firm, level surface and fully opened with locks engaged. Skipping inspections, and placing the ladder on uneven ground, or climbing with items in both hands undermine the balance and can hide defects, increasing the chance of a fall.