NIOSH has issued a new free application (app) for mobile phones on extension ladder safety.  The NIOSH Ladder Safety phone app has an angle of inclination indicator to help users set extension ladders at the proper angle.  The app is available through the NIOSH website (http://www.cdc.gov/niosh/topics/falls/), the Apple App-store (https://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewSoftware?id=658633912&mt=8), and the Android Market (https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=gov.cdc.niosh.dsr.laddersafety).

Misjudging the ladder angle is an important risk factor for a fall. The app’s inclination indicator allows most cell phones to provide both a visual and an audible signal when the ladder angle is correctly set.  The Ladder Safety app also includes other handy information about ladder safety, such as ladder selection, inspection, accessorizing, and use. 

This is a great app that helps workers recall their training and reminds them that there is a "right way" and a "wrong way" to set up a ladder. The app uses your smart phone's sensors to measure the angle of the ladder and gives you visual and audible indications that the ladder angle is correct. It also includes a safety inspection checklist and additional ladder safety info.