Handling Items on Ladders

Retail & Stockroom Safety

Warning: Refer to the Manufacturer’s instructions for specific ladder use information, procedures and weight restrictions. Don’t forget to include weight of tools and objects.

Ladder use can be unsafe, are there other options? 

If you must handle items on a ladder, use these 4 quick tips to stay safe and prevent injuries:

1. Get close 

  • Stay facing the ladder with body centered 
  • Reposition instead of reaching
mannequins showing how to use a ladder properly to retrieve items from stockroom shelf

2. Check the Item First 

  • Size & weight: awkward or unbalanced? 
    • If yes – don’t lift it on a ladder
mannequins showing how to use a ladder properly to retrieve items from stockroom shelf

3. Keep 3-points of contact 

  • Always maintain control
mannequins showing how to use a ladder properly to retrieve items from stockroom shelf

4. Climb First. Handle Second 

  • Avoid carrying items while going up or down 
  • Get help if needed
mannequins showing how to use a ladder properly to retrieve items from stockroom shelf

When you're on a ladder, carrying or moving items can throw off your balance. This increases the chances of falls, strains, and other injuries. Use the tips below to stay safe.

Before using a ladder, think about safer options

If possible, use equipment to avoid handling items while on a ladder: 

  • A lift or mobile platform that raises you to the right height 
  • A mobile ladder platform with tools that help lift or lower items (like pulley systems)

If you must handle an item while on the ladder, make sure it DOES NOT:

  • Throw off your balance
  • Stop you from keeping 3 points of contact
  • Block your view
  • Go over the ladder’s weight limit (your weight + the item’s weight)
  • Require you to work for a long time in that position

 

 

Retail and Stockroom Safety Tips

1) Get Close 

  • Pick the right ladder or step stool for the job 
  • Clear the area before setting it up 
  • Move the ladder when needed so you’re always close to what you’re reaching for 

2) Check the item first 

  • Large, heavy, or awkward items should not be handled on ladders or step stools – use different equipment instead 
  • Stay square to the ladder at all times:
    • Keep your body facing the ladder and stay centered
    • Keep your belt buckle between the side rails 
  • Don’t reach too far:
    • Work between mid-thigh and shoulder height
    • If you can’t reach safely, stop and reposition the ladder or get a better one for the job

3) Keep 3-points of contact 

  • Choose ladders and step stools that let you keep steady hand and foot positions 
  • Use handrails when they’re available 
  • Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and maintain control using 3 points of contact

4) Climb first. Handle second. 

  • Use a stand or platform to set the item down before climbing 
  • If you can’t maintain 3 points of contact while climbing, it isn’t safe 
  • Ask a co-worker for help to pass an item while on the ladder, ONLY if the item is above your mid-thigh
    • DO NOT pass items below your mid-thigh because it can affect your balance on the ladder 
  • Some ladders and steps have special rules – check manufacturer’s instructions and the link below for more details

Find more information on preventing falls and MSDs when using ladders and step stools.

wsps logo

 

This resource was created in collaboration with Workplace Safety and Prevention Services (WSPS).

 

 

Do you want to download this resource?
Download Now