Every ladder is built to handle a certain amount of weight — and exceeding that limit can cause it to fail.
Why It Matters:
Duty ratings aren’t suggestions — they’re safety limits. Too much weight can stress ladder components, leading to collapse or structural damage. This includes not just your body weight but also your tools and materials.
Key Points:
- Ladders are rated by total load capacity:
- Type IAA: 375 lbs – Extra heavy-duty (common for construction)
- Type IA: 300 lbs – Heavy-duty
- Type I: 250 lbs – Industrial
- Type II: 225 lbs – Commercial
- Type III: 200 lbs – Light duty (not suitable for job sites)
- Include body weight plus tools and equipment in the load.
- Use the highest-rated ladder available when in doubt.
- Never let multiple workers share a ladder unless it’s designed for that.
✅ Respect the rating — it’s your limit, not a suggestion.
Ask the Crew:
- Do we know the ratings of the ladders we’re using?
- Are we exceeding any ladder’s capacity with our tools or gear?
