Which of the following is a correct practice when working on a ladder near an aerial device?

• A. Do not wear a belt
• B. Stay off the ladder while the aerial device is moving
• C. Always wear SCBA
• D. Wear a ladder belt and be hooked into some part of the aerial device

Answer: (D)

When you’re working on a ladder near an aerial device, the key safety practice is being secured to prevent falls and keep you attached as the equipment moves. A ladder belt lets you attach a lanyard to a secure anchor, and hooking into part of the aerial device provides a continuous tether so you don’t slip or get dropped if the ladder shifts or the device moves. This setup gives you active protection in dynamic conditions. Not wearing a belt leaves you unprotected in a fall. Simply staying off the ladder while the aerial is moving can reduce some risk, but it doesn’t ensure you’re tied off and protected if contact with the device or ladder occurs. Wearing SCBA is essential in certain environments for breathing protection, but it doesn’t address fall protection in this context.