What is a key factor to consider for ladder safety with regard to wind conditions?

When considering ladder safety in relation to wind conditions, the key factor is wind speed and direction. High winds can significantly impact the stability of a ladder, potentially causing it to shift, sway, or even fall over if not secured properly. Furthermore, understanding the wind direction is crucial to positioning the ladder effectively to minimize risk. A ladder should ideally be placed with the back against the wind to reduce the chance of it being blown away from the surface it is leaning against.

Temperature, time of day, and weather forecasts, while they can influence safety and operational decisions in different ways, are not as directly relevant to the immediate and practical concerns of maintaining ladder stability in windy conditions. Always prioritizing the evaluation of wind factors ensures that personnel remain safe while carrying out their duties.