HomeKnowledgeOSHA 1926.1053 — Ladders
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OSHA 1926.1053 — Ladders

Updated Mar 25, 2026
Requirements for portable and fixed ladders. Extend 3 feet above landing. 4:1 pitch ratio for portable. Load capacity rated. Inspect before each use. #3 cause of fall injuries in construction.

Portable ladders must extend at least 3 feet above the upper landing surface. Non-self-supporting ladders (leaning ladders) placed at a 4:1 ratio — base 1 foot out for every 4 feet of height. All ladder rungs uniformly spaced 10-14 inches apart. Load capacity: Type IA = 300 lbs, Type I = 250 lbs, Type II = 225 lbs, Type III = 200 lbs. Never use the top 2 rungs of a stepladder. Inspect before each use — discard damaged ladders immediately. Metal ladders prohibited near electrical. Fixed ladders over 24 feet require a cage, well, ladder safety device, or self-retracting lifeline. Training required for all ladder users per 1926.1060. Ladder falls account for approximately 20% of construction fall injuries.

TAGS
safetyladderoshafallportablefixedtraining
DETAILS
hazards
["fall","struck_by"]
regulator
OSHA
task types
["general_access","painting","electrical","roofing"]
regulation id
29 CFR 1926.1053
required controls
["3ft_extension","4_to_1_ratio","inspection"]
violation penalties
{"serious":"$16,131"}
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