What is the 3-Point Contact Rule?

The 3-point rule is crucial to avoiding the risks of falls. It is a simple yet effective rule. It simply states that when climbing or descending ladders, trucks and equipment, always maintain contact with three limbs. This could be one hand and two feet, or two hands and one foot.

Always face the vehicle and distribute your weight evenly among the three points. This creates a triangle of anchor points. The closer this triangle is to your center of gravity, the higher your level of stability.

The following outlines the correct climbing procedure for a vehicle:

• Firmly grasp two points of contact before lifting your leg to climb into or out of the vehicle.
• Climb on and off only when the vehicle or equipment is stationary. Never while the vehicle is in motion.
• Never jump from the vehicle. Jumping can cause serous injury.
• Don’t wear loose clothing as it could catch on equipment.
• Always mount and dismount facing the vehicle or equipment.
• Use the points of contact designed by the manufacturer to mount and dismount. Points of contact may include steps, running boards, traction strips, footholds and hand grips.
• Don’t use wheel hubs, machine tracks or door handles for mounting and dismounting.
• Break the three-points of contact only when you reach the ground, the cab or a stable platform.

Employee Responsibilities:

• Be cautious of your surrounding and tasks at all times
• Always face the vehicle or ladder
• Never jump down or off anything
• Always wear appropriate footwear with good traction
• Never use tires as a stepping surface
• Never use door frame or door edges as a handhold
• Always keep your hands free when climbing
• Never rush, take your time for your safety
• Never carry items while climbing
• Always be aware of safety precautions and procedures in place to keep you safe

Employer Responsibilities:

• Provide Proper training
• Provide posted reminders for employees
• Frequently evaluate and inspect equipment
• Provide additional steps or non slip surfaces for employees to use
• Provide fall protection gear
• Provide PPE
• Install warning signs throughout location
• Instruct workers on safe mounting and dismounting
• Review Training frequently, do refresher courses
• Carefully monitor your employees and watch for warning signs
• Teach the three point contact rule, and enforce.