How to Use a Trestle Ladder

Inspect the ladder visually for any damaged rungs, broken or missing hardware, corroded metal or rotting wood. The foot of each rail must have a slip-resistant material to be considered safe for use. Remove damaged ladders from service until the proper repairs are made.

Open the ladder. Make sure that each foot is balanced on a level surface and the ladder is not in danger of falling over.

Push down firmly on the metal braces that connect each side of the ladder. The brace should lock into place in order to hold the ladder open.

Climb up and down the ladder as necessary, but avoid using the top of the ladder as a step. The manufacturer may have also included a safety warning against using the the rungs that are second from the top.

Work together with your partner, if applicable, to ensure that your weight is evenly distributed and balanced on the ladder. Unlike with step ladders, trestle ladders may be designed for use with a worker on each side of the ladder.

Carry loads up the ladder carefully, distributing the weight as evenly as possible to avoid toppling the ladder.

Place the load on the top rung of the ladder, if the manufacturer deems this practice to be safe, and secure it to the rung.

Dismount the ladder and move the ladder to each new work space. Never try to move the ladder while you or another person is standing on it.