Most Cited Causes of Ladder Accidents are Overreaching and Missing the Last Step

Study Finds the Most Commonly Cited Causes of Ladder Accidents Are Missing the Last Step and Overreaching

Chicago, January 30, 2018 -- Missing the last step and overreaching were the two most cited issues as the cause for ladder accidents, according to a study completed by the American Ladder Institute (ALI) in 2016. Close behind were failure to use three points of contact and using the wrong ladder for the job. These cited causes of ladder accidents can be easily avoided by taking the following precautionary actions prior to using a ladder:

Select the right type and size of ladder.
Set up the ladder correctly.
Inspect the ladder for damage and wear.
Use the ladder correctly.

"Most ladder-related accidents can be easily prevented with the proper education, precautionary actions, and safer, more innovative equipment," said Ryan Moss, President of ALI and CEO of Little Giant Ladders. "The American Ladder Institute provides a number of free resources and education that can help you stay safe and get the job done in the most effective way. You can reduce injuries and fatalities! Join us this coming March for National Ladder Safety Month and make ladder safety a priority for your people."

ALI resources and education offerings include:

Ladders 101 web page to help you choose the right ladder for the job
Free ladder safety certification courses available at www.laddersafetytraining.org
Ladder Safety Checklist

During March, ALI will place a special focus on ladder safety with the second annual National Ladder Safety Month . The focus of the ladder safety conversation will be divided in to four areas:

February 25 - March 3: What Is Ladder Safety?
March 4 - March 10: Ladder Safety at Work: Focus on Company Leadership
March 11 - March 17: Ladder Safety at Work: Focus on the Employee
March 18 - March 31: Ladder Inspection and Disposal

Consumers and companies can learn how to participate by reviewing this planning document and the Marketing Guide , which detail National Ladder Safety Month's purpose and shares ideas for promoting ladder safety awareness. ALI is also encouraging use of #LadderSafetyMonth on social media. Spread the message of ladder safety while showcasing your brand by becoming a sponsor - view the prospectus for information on sponsorship opportunities. National Ladder Safety Month is proudly sponsored by the International Masonry Institute and the International Union of Bricklayers and Allied and Craftworkers .

Learn more how you can participate in National Ladder Safety Month by visiting www.laddersafetymonth.com .

About the American Ladder Institute

Founded in 1947, the American Ladder Institute (ALI) is a not-for-profit trade association dedicated to promoting safe ladder use through ladder safety resources, bilingual safety training, the development of ladder safety standards and National Ladder Safety Month held annually in March. ALI also represents the common business interests of its members who are comprised of the leading ladder and ladder component manufacturers in the United States and Canada.

ALI's free education and training resources provide guidance on the proper selection, care and safe use of ladders in the workplace and at home. ALI also serves as secretariat for the ANSI A14 Committee, comprised of industry experts who develop safety standards for the appropriate design, manufacture, testing, care and use of various types of ladders.

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For more information, contact:

Claire Sereiko

Senior Marketing Coordinator

American Ladder Institute

312-673-4984

[email protected]