Ladder Safety Tips

Did you know that ladders are one of the primary causes of accidents among homeowners? They are also prime culprits when it comes to occupational injury. Learning how to use one correctly can make them a less dangerous piece of equipment. Here are some ladder safety trips to help prevent accidents.

The Right Ladder for the Job

When you get ready to use a ladder for the job you want to do, it’s far safer if you have the right ladder for the job. Industrial, commercial, and household ladders are the three basic categories. Industrial ladders can hold the most weight (up to 250 pounds), whereas commercial ladders are a bit less sturdy and hold a maximum of 225 pounds. Household ladders only hold around 200 pounds safely.

Within those categories, there are step ladders and A-frame folding ladders. So height, load, and sturdiness of the ladder should match your job. If you are going to be carrying something heavy up the ladder, remember to add that weight to the total load. And if you find that you need to stand on the top step, you need a taller ladder. You should never stand on the topmost step of any ladder; sources say you should not go above the second rung.

Placing Your Ladder

Make sure your ladder is on a surface that is as flat and even as possible. Don’t put the ladder onto any object except the ground, even if that object is flat (such as cinder blocks or a wooden box).

Sources also suggest following the 1 to 4 rule – place the ladder 1 foot away from the wall (or whatever the ladder is going to be up against) for every 4 feet of height.

Tie It Down

Tall ladders can be unstable no matter how level the surface is. You can lash the ladder down or secure it to a solid object to prevent it from toppling.

Inspect It Closely

Look at your ladder carefully before using it, especially if it’s been in storage for a bit. Check for cracks and broken areas, and if you observe them, do not use the ladder.

Both Feet on the Ladder

Keep both of your feet on the ladder while working. Don’t brace your foot on another surface and leave the other foot on the ladder. This might upset the ladder’s balance and cause it to fall.

Put It Away

If you leave your ladder out and up, you might find that it proves irresistible to children. Climbing all over ladders is not a safe activity for children of any age! Make sure you don’t leave the ladder out to tempt your kids (or kids in the neighborhood).