The American Ladder Institute (ALI), in conjunction with Werner, believes ladder accidents are preventable with thorough safety planning, training, and continuous innovation in product design. 2025 marks nine years of Werner sponsoring National Ladder Safety Month and partnership with the ALI in the advancement of ladder safety. The more people, organizations, and businesses get involved, the wider the message spreads, and the more people learn about proper ladder safety. Since March is Ladder Safety Month, this is the perfect time to talk to workers about how to remain safe while using ladders.
“The annual campaign raises national awareness to the importance of ladder safety on the worksite; Werner provides valuable training support, resources and tools.” - Werner.
According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), falling from a ladder leads to dozens of deaths and thousands of injuries each year, with falls being the leading cause of death in the construction industry.
“Ladder-related injuries are far too common and often preventable through ongoing training and consistent safety precautions for those working at height. With consistent training and safety protocols in place, these injuries and fatalities can be decreased,” according to Werner.
Thus, National Ladder Safety Month was created to raise awareness of ladder safety and to decrease the number of ladder-related injuries and fatalities.
The three goals of National Ladder Safety Month are:
- Raise awareness of ladder safety
- Decrease injuries and fatalities caused by ladder misuse
- Increase the number of people certified in Ladder Safety Training
Additionally, National Ladder Safety Month 2025 comprises four themes with Werner offering safety-themed webinars every week in March. Week One is Training and Awareness; Week Two is Inspection and Maintenance; Week Three is Stabilization, Setup, and Accessories; and Week Four is Safe Climbing and Positioning. Eric Blankinship, Sr. Product Manager for Werner, will host an online webinar focused on Ladder Setup and Pro Tips on Monday, March 17 at 12pm CST.
So, what are the best ways to stay safe while using ladders-whether at work or at home? OSHA lists the following ways to remain safe while using a ladder:
- Read and follow all labels/markings on the ladder prior to using it.
- Look for, and avoid, overhead power lines before using a ladder and avoid using a metal ladder around power lines or exposed electrical equipment.
- Inspect the ladder prior to using it for damage. If damage is found, the ladder must be removed from service and tagged.
- Maintain three points while using a ladder (two hands and a foot or two feet and a hand) and always face the ladder while climbing.
- Only use ladders and their accessories for their designed and intended purposes.
- Ladders must not have slippery material on the rungs, steps or feet.
- Do not use the top step or rung of a ladder as a step unless it was specifically designed for that purpose.
- Only use a ladder on a level and stable surface.
- Do not place the ladder on any unstable bases such as boxes for additional height.
- Make sure all locks are properly engaged on an extension ladder.
- Do not exceed the maximum load rating of a ladder.
To participate in Ladder Safety Month activities, visit www.laddersafetymonth.com. To buy or learn about the various Werner safety and ladder products UT&F offers, please contact a local UT&F showroom in Houston at 713-692-2323; in San Antonio at 210-495-8665; or College Station at 979-731-8665.
