Math. An underappreciated four-letter word. For practical purposes, math is necessarily precise in both the work of and tools used by trade contractors. One tool stands as being not only one of the oldest known human tools, but also one of the most frequently used tools by trade contractors today. It is the ladder.

Since the ladder has been around for several thousand years, you’d think the 1,2,3’s of proper usage would be well-ingrained into every trade contractor who uses a ladder. While small contractors have free access to ladder safety training through American Ladder Institute (ALI) @ laddersafetytraining.org, many don’t avail themselves of this opportunity. Skipping out on fundamental safety and math rules applicable to ladder usage is a big risk not worth taking.

Don’t have the time? MAKE TIME.

1. The livelihood of many trade contractors depends on their physical capabilities.

Depending on the circumstances, you could be unable to return to work for months, or never be able to return to work. Either of these last two outcomes would lead to much different math problems in terms of personal income and expenses.

2. Prioritize general safety, including proper ladder usage, as a marketing tool.

Customers who care about who is on their property are more likely to appreciate a trade contracting business that respects safe practices, and word-of-mouth referrals are priceless for attracting business and establishing and maintaining a positive reputation.

3. Use common sense and math to implement basic safety measures:

- Inspect your ladder(s) for defects before each use.
- Use the right-sized ladder for the right-sized job.