Ladders must not be placed in front of closed doors. True or False?

The concept that ladders must not be placed in front of closed doors highlights an important aspect of ladder safety. When a ladder is positioned in front of a closed door, there is a significant risk that someone could open the door without being aware that someone is on or near the ladder. This could lead to serious accidents, including falls or injuries to both the individual on the ladder and the person opening the door.

This guideline is rooted in the overall principle of maintaining a safe work environment, which includes avoiding scenarios that could result in unforeseen accidents. While there may be instances where precautions might be applicable, such as marking a door to indicate that it should not be opened, the fundamental safety guideline is to keep ladders clear of doorways to prevent any potential hazards regardless of the building type or door condition. This awareness is crucial for all users of ladders, regardless of their specific workplace, making it universally applicable.