ANNISTON ARMY DEPOT, Ala. -- The Target Zero monthly safety focus topic at the depot for June is fall prevention and ladders.

The two subjects go hand in hand, as the proper use and maintenance of a ladder is a key to avoiding a fall which could injure, cripple or kill.

Here are statistics from the Consumer Product Safety Commission and the Bureau of Labor Statistics:

• More than 90,000 people receive emergency room treatment from ladder-related injuries every year.

• Elevated falls account for almost 700 occupational deaths annually.

• These deaths account for 15 percent of all occupational deaths.

• Over the last 10 years, the amount of ladder-related injuries has increased 50 percent.

• 50 percent of all ladder-related accidents were due to individuals carrying items as they climbed.

The vast majority of ladder accidents are caused by selecting the wrong type of ladder for the job, using damaged ladders or incorrectly using, placing or positioning ladders.

Here are some helpful tips to remember when working with ladders:

• Always maintain three points of contact with the ladder to ensure stability.

• Never use a ladder for any other purpose than what the manufacturer intended.

• Check the ladder's rated weight capacity before use.

• Ensure extension ladders extend at least three feet above the level that you are climbing too.

• Never stand or sit on the top step of an A frame ladder.

• Always inspect any ladder before use and never use if the ladder has broken or missing parts.

• Position the ladder correctly on level, firm ground.

• To obtain the proper angle, consult the manufacturer's instructions on placing an extension ladder.

Here at Anniston Army Depot, mobile staircases are considered ladders.

Ensure the hand rails are in place and that no structural damage is apparent before use.

Most mobile staircases have a mechanism that locks the ladder in place and, when disengaged, allows the stairs to be rolled from place to place.

If the mechanism is broken and the stairs will not roll, do not try to move by yourself. Several overexertion related injuries have occurred on the depot as a result of employees trying to drag or lift these heavy staircases on their own.

Inform your supervisor of the issue to initiate a work order for repair.

Every ladder on the depot, regardless of location or intended purpose, should be labeled or stenciled by the supervisor with a current inspection date (NPI date). If the ladder is out of date, it should be red-tagged and taken out of service.

Do not use these ladders until a proper inspection can be conducted and documented.

Before using a ladder for any purpose, ensure you are using the right ladder for the job, it is free of defects and you have placed it correctly prior to use.

For safety-related questions, call the Safety Office at Ext. 7541.