3 Points Of Contact Rule Of Ladder Safety

The Three Points of Contact rule is one of the most important safety rules to follow when using a ladder. This rule states that you should always have three points of contact with the ladder at all times. This means that either both feet and one hand or both hands and one foot should be in contact with the ladder at all times.

The reason for this is that it provides stability and prevents you from falling off the ladder. It is also important to never climb higher than the third rung from the top. This is because the higher you climb, the more stability you lose and the greater the risk of falling.

If you need to work above the third rung, you should use a scaffold or other approved platform. This will provide you with a stable surface to work on and will help to prevent accidents.

By following the Three Points of Contact rule, you can help to keep yourself safe when using a ladder. This rule is one of the most important safety rules to follow and should always be observed.

Everyone slips and falls sometimes. But some accidents can be more serious than others. The 3 points of contact rule were invented to reduce the chances of you falling from a ladder – and at Browns Ladders, we take it very seriously. It’s a time-tested method and essentially instructs you to keep at least three of your four limbs in contact with a ladder at all times– two hands and one foot or two feet and one hand.

3 Points Of Contact Rule Of Ladder Safety

This system allows the person to have maximum stability and support, thereby reducing the likelihood of slipping and falling.

Also Read: Ladders Safety Rules

Identify controls

To use ladders safely, always maintain three points of contact. That means two hands and one foot or two feet and one hand on the ladder at all times.
Moving quickly often results in only 2-point contact. You often have to make a conscious effort to maintain 3-point contact.
Break 3-point contact only when you reach the ground or a stable platform.
Tie off or secure the top and bottom of the ladder to prevent movement.
Put both hands firmly on the rungs before stepping onto a ladder.
Always face the ladder when you’re climbing up and down.
Keep your center of gravity between the side rails. Don’t lean out on either side.
Keep both feet on the ladder when standing on it. Never straddle the space between a ladder and another object
Make sure that the ladder extends at least 90 cm (3 ft) above the top landing.
Make sure the ladder meets the requirements of Grade 1, Grade 1A, or Grade 1AA ladder according to CSA Z11-12: Portable Ladders.

When climbing a ladder, you must have both hands free and face the ladder. This allows for three points of contact with the ladder at all times and reduces the chances of falling.

Position the ladder so it is:

Not blocking any paths, exits or doors
On level, solid footing
Against a stable structure
Set up at a 4:1 angle
Extended at least three feet above the surface to be accessed
Secured at the top and bottom

When using the ladder:

Don’t let your belt buckle pass beyond either ladder side rail
Hold the ladder with one hand while working with the other
Don’t hurry or skip rungs/steps

Do…

Wear suitable footwear: something silly like sandals or barefoot just won’t cut it.
Make sure you clean dirt or anything slippery from your shoes.
Put ladder legs on solid, even ground.
Center your body between the rails when you are climbing and face the ladder at all times.
Don’t hold the rails if possible – hold the rungs! Holding the rungs give you much better control if your foot slips.
Use extra caution when alighting the ladder: such as checking for any ground obstacles.
Make sure your hands are free. Try attaching your tools or materials to the ladder itself. Heavier loads should be raised and lowered separately using a pulley system.

Don’t…

Don’t try to move ladders while standing on them.
Never overreach to the side: keep yourself centered at all times.
Don’t jump off a ladder: You might land on an uneven surface and you might strain yourself.
Never move too quickly: This often violates the 3 points of contact rule of ladder safety. Be conscious about maintaining your 3 points of contact at all times.
Don’t overload the ladder: Take the ladder load ratings into consideration – such as the weight of any equipment you use.

3 Points Of Contact Rule Of Ladder Safety