Halifax EMC

Ladder Safety: Think Before You Climb

October 2025

Before you rush into a job that requires you to use a ladder, take precautions before you climb.

Electrical Safety

Look up and around for power line locations before using a ladder.
Keep a minimum 10-foot distance from a power line or other electrical equipment at all times.
The minimum distance rule includes you (any part of your body) or any object you are holding, such as a ladder or tool.
Always be aware of power line locations when you are elevated.
Sources of elevation include, but are not limited to, a ladder, rooftop, boom lift or scaffolding.

General Ladder Safety

Use a ladder on a stable, level surface.
Maintain three-point contact on the ladder when climbing.
Three points of contact mean two hands and a foot or two feet and a hand.
Keep your body near the middle of the step and face the ladder when climbing.
Do not use the top step/rung of a ladder unless designed for that purpose.
For a stepladder, make sure the base is fully open and the spreaders are locked.
Learn more about electrical safety.

Remember safe practices

Just as it is important for our employees to work safely around electricity, it is equally important for cooperative members to live and play safely around electricity. It is so easy to forget safe practices at home because so often electricity works quietly behind the scenes.

Be aware and be safe