When using ladders you should focus on choosing the right ladder, setting it up correctly, and maintaining three points of contact at all times to avoid falls and serious injuries.

Choose and check the ladder

  • Use the right ladder for the job, with enough height so you don’t have to stand on the top steps or overreach.
  • Check the ladder before use for damaged rungs, loose bolts, bent rails, or slippery contamination like oil, paint, or mud; do not use it if anything looks compromised.
  • Make sure the ladder’s load rating covers your weight plus tools and materials you’ll carry or place on it.

Set it up safely

  • Place the ladder on a firm, level, non‑slippery surface and never on boxes, barrels, or other makeshift supports.
  • For extension ladders, set the proper angle (around 1 unit out for every 4 up) and extend the rails at least about three feet above the landing if you’ll step off at the top.
  • Keep the area around the base clear of clutter and avoid placing ladders in front of doors or in traffic paths unless they are locked or barricaded.

Climb the right way

  • Always face the ladder and maintain three points of contact (two hands and one foot or two feet and one hand) while climbing or descending.
  • Keep your body centered between the side rails; a good rule is to keep your belt buckle inside the rails so you don’t overreach and tip the ladder.
  • Carry tools in a belt or hoist them up with a line instead of carrying them in your hands while climbing.

Work safely while on the ladder

  • Never stand on the top cap or top step/rung, and follow the manufacturer’s labels about the highest standing level.
  • Do not lean, pull, or twist your body suddenly; if you can’t reach comfortably, climb down and move the ladder instead of trying to stretch.
  • Stay away from overhead power lines and avoid using metal ladders near electrical hazards.

After use and general mindset

  • Clean off mud, oil, or wet paint and store the ladder in a dry, secure place where it won’t be knocked over or damaged.
  • Treat ladders as serious work equipment, not as makeshift platforms, scaffolds, or bridges, and never let untrained children or bystanders climb them.

TL;DR: When using ladders you should pick the correct ladder, inspect it, set it on stable ground at the right angle, keep three points of contact, stay centered between the rails, avoid the top step, and never overreach or work near power lines with a conductive ladder.

Information gathered from public forums or data available on the internet and portrayed here.