What should always be done to ensure safety while using an extension ladder?

Securing the extension ladder properly at both ends is crucial for maintaining stability and preventing accidents while using it. When a ladder is not secured, it can easily slip or fall, especially when a person is climbing or working on it. Securing the ladder involves either tying it off at the top and bottom to prevent movement or ensuring that the base is on stable, level ground and ideally positioned. This practice minimizes the risk of the ladder tipping over or sliding out from beneath the user, which is vital for worker safety in scenarios where the ladder is subjected to various forces.

Regular inspections, while important for overall ladder maintenance and safety, do not directly address the immediate stability of the ladder during use. Positioning it against a wall serves as a guideline but does not inherently secure the ladder. Using the ladder with a partner can provide assistance and additional safety measures, but it does not directly influence the structural stability of the ladder itself while in use. Therefore, ensuring proper securing of the ladder is the most critical step to take for immediate safety.