It's no surprise that work-related falls, including those fromladders, may account for most on-the-job injuries.

According to OSHA, falls from portable ladders (step,straight, combination and extension) are one of theleading causes of occupational fatalities and injuries.

But these falls aren't only happening at the workplace. In theUnited States, more than 500,000 people per year aretreated — and about 300 people die — from ladder-related injuries.The estimated annual cost of ladder injuries in the U.S.is $11 billion, as noted by the Centers for
Disease Control andPrevention.

As we gear up for the holiday season, attics are opening, lightsare being hung and rooftops adorned with snowmen and anoccasional jolly man, as many begin to prepare their homesfor guests, decorations and more.

Related: Here are the top 10 most costly U.S. workplaceinjuries

Falls from ladders can happen anywhere, anytime and to the mostcautious user. At the workplace or at home, avoid injuriesby following these five basic ladder safety tips:

1. Check your equipment.

Before climbing on any ladder, it is important to check yourequipment — including the ladder's recommendedusage and instruction labels for weight restrictions and heightuses/requirements.

Ensure you're on level ground and that the ladder is operatingcorrectly. Note the highest acceptable step and make sureyour ladder is tall enough (three feet taller than yourrequired elevation) so you aren't tempted to use the topstep, which should be avoided.

2. Review your surroundings.

If you're using your ladder outside, check local reports forweather or wind, or other potentially dangerous conditionsthat can hinder your ability to correctly use your ladder. Wheninside, set up the ladder away from doors or other hazardsthat could cause a fall.

Keep your working area clear of clutter or debris,including decorations, tools or other materials.

When hanging your home holiday lights, have a spotter at thebottom of the ladder to hold your position and ensureyou're level. (Photo: iStock)

3. Trust in teamwork.

Sure, you could handle moving heavy boxes from an attic alone,or hang those 50 feet of lights, but why not have somehelp? While it is never recommended to have more than one personon a ladder at a time, have a spotter or base at thebottom of the ladder to hold your position and ensureyou're level. They can keep an eye on things from a perspective youdon't have when you're engaged in your work.

To keep the top of your ladder clear of unattended tools, useyour spotter to hold or assist with handing up necessaryequipment.

4. Keep calm. And still.

Anytime you're working on a ladder, be aware of your movementsand body position. Never use your body weight to shift orwalk a ladder when standing on it. It may take more time, butface the ladder and climb down, and always reposition fromthe ground rather than while on the ladder. Maintain a3-point contact (hold on with two hands on either side of theladder and both feet secure) for balance and remember notto lean too far or reach too high.

5. Enjoy your work!

When you're done, immediately put away your ladder first, beforeother tools. Then sit back, relax and toast your hard workwith a mug of eggnog!

Karen Johnson is a safety consultant with FFVA Mutual, a Florida-based regionalinsurance carrier specializing in workers' compensationsolutions since 1956. She can be reached at [email protected].

Related: 7 dangers of decking the halls