Ladders are a common tool found in many households but they also pose a significant risk of injury if not used properly. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), in the United States, ladder falls are a leading cause of emergency department-treated injuries. Annually in the United States, 500,000 people receive medical attention due to ladder-related injuries and an expected 300 individuals lose their lives. The total cost of these tragic accidents is estimated at a staggering $24 billion when accounting for work loss and associated expenses such as legal fees, liability costs, medical bills and pain inflicted. In this article, I’ll share my top 10 ladder safety tips to help you use ladders safely and reduce the risk of injury.

  1. Choose the right ladder: Choosing the right ladder for the job is crucial for ladder safety. There are different types of ladders, such as step ladders, extension ladders, and multi-position ladders, and each has its own set of capabilities and limitations. For example, step ladders are great for tasks that require you to reach a height of up to 12 feet, while extension ladders are better suited for tasks that require you to reach a height of more than 12 feet. When choosing a ladder, it’s important to consider the weight capacity as well. Not all ladders are capable of supporting the same amount of weight, so make sure to choose a ladder that can safely support the weight of the person using it, as well as any tools or materials that will be used on the ladder. Additionally, it’s important to consider the height of the task and the space available for ladder set-up. By choosing the right ladder for the task, you can ensure that you have the right tool for the job and reduce the risk of injury.
  2. Inspect the ladder: Before using a ladder, it’s important to inspect it for any damage or defects. Look for things like bent rungs, cracked legs, or loose hardware. These defects can cause the ladder to fail and pose a serious risk of injury. If you find any damage, do not use the ladder and replace it. Regular inspections of your ladder should be a part of your ladder safety routine, not only before using it but also after usage and storage, in order to ensure that the ladder is in good condition and safe to use. It’s also important to store ladders in a dry, cool place and to avoid storing them in direct sunlight or in areas where they may be exposed to chemicals or other corrosive substances. By properly maintaining and inspecting your ladder, you can help to prolong its life and ensure that it’s safe to use.
  3. Set up the ladder on a level surface: Setting up the ladder on a level surface and making sure the feet of the ladder are on firm footing is crucial for ladder stability and safety. Avoid setting up the ladder on soft ground, like grass or gravel, or on uneven surfaces like stairs. If the ladder is not stable, it can tip over, causing injury or damage. Additionally, when setting up a ladder, make sure it’s on a stable surface and that the feet are not on any obstacles that can cause the ladder to tip over. Also, if the ladder needs to be placed on a surface that is not level, make sure to use ladder levelers. By taking these steps, you can help to ensure that the ladder is stable and secure, reducing the risk of injury.
  4. Keep the ladder at the proper angle: The ladder should be set up at a 75-degree angle, with the base of the ladder one foot away from the wall for every four feet of ladder height. This angle helps to keep the ladder stable and prevent it from tipping over. Additionally, make sure that the ladder is on a stable surface and that the feet are not on any obstacles that can cause the ladder to tip over. Also, use ladder levelers if the ladder needs to be placed on a surface that is not level. By following these guidelines and maintaining the proper angle, you can help to ensure that the ladder is stable and secure, reducing the risk of injury.
  5. Use the ladder at the proper height: Never overreach when using a ladder. Keep your body centered between the side rails of the ladder and maintain three points of contact at all times. This means that you should always have both feet and one hand or both hands and one foot on the ladder when climbing or descending. Additionally, it’s important to avoid carrying tools or materials in your hands while on the ladder, as this can cause you to lose your balance and fall. Instead, use a tool belt or a bucket to carry tools and materials, or have a helper hand them to you when you need them. By keeping your body centered, maintaining three points of contact, and using proper tool carrying methods, you can help to ensure that you can use the ladder safely and reduce the risk of falling.
  6. Secure the ladder: If you’re using an extension ladder, make sure to secure the ladder by using the locking mechanism or by using a ladder stabilizer. This will help to prevent the ladder from slipping or collapsing while you’re using it. Additionally, when using an extension ladder, make sure that the ladder is fully extended and that the locking mechanism is engaged to prevent the ladder from collapsing. Also, when using a ladder stabilizer, make sure that the ladder is on a stable surface and that the stabilizer is properly secured to the ladder. By taking these steps, you can help to ensure that the ladder is secure and stable, reducing the risk of injury.
  7. Wear slip-resistant shoes: Make sure you’re wearing slip-resistant shoes to provide traction and stability while on the ladder. Wearing shoes with smooth soles can increase the risk of slips and falls on ladder rungs. Additionally, it’s important to avoid wearing shoes with open toes or high heels while on a ladder, as these types of shoes can increase the risk of slipping and falling. By wearing slip-resistant shoes, you can help to increase your footing and stability on the ladder, reducing the risk of falling.
  8. Have a helper: If you’re working on a ladder at a height that makes you uncomfortable or if you’re working with heavy tools or materials, have a helper hold the ladder steady. Having a helper hold the ladder steady can help to prevent it from slipping or collapsing while you’re working on it. Additionally, having a helper can be especially helpful when working on tasks that require you to use both hands, such as hanging drywall or installing a ceiling fan. Having a helper can also help you to carry heavy tools or materials up and down the ladder, reducing the risk of falling or dropping materials. It’s important to communicate effectively with your helper and establish a clear plan for the task at hand to avoid any confusion or accidents. By having a helper, you can ensure that the ladder is stable and that you have an extra set of eyes and hands to assist you with the task, reducing the risk of injury.
  9. Use a ladder safety device: A ladder safety device can help to prevent falls by providing an extra level of stability and security. These devices can be attached to the ladder and prevent it from slipping or collapsing. Additionally, when using a ladder safety device, make sure that it is properly attached to the ladder and that it is designed for the type of ladder you are using. It’s also important to consult the manufacturer’s instructions for proper usage and maintenance of the device. By using a ladder safety device, you can help to increase the stability of the ladder and reduce the risk of falling.
  10. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions: Always read the manufacturer’s instructions and warnings before using a ladder. They will provide important information on how to use the ladder safely. Additionally, make sure to follow any guidelines on weight capacity, proper angle, and ladder set-up. It’s also important to regularly check your ladder for any wear and tear and to replace it if it’s no longer safe to use. By following the manufacturer’s instructions and guidelines, you can help to ensure that you’re using the ladder safely and that it’s in good condition.

In conclusion, ladder safety is crucial and must be taken seriously. By following the above tips, you can reduce the risk of injury and make ladder use safer in your home. Remember to always choose the right ladder, inspect it before use, set it up on a level surface, maintain the proper angle, use it at the proper height, secure it, wear slip-resistant shoes, have a helper, use a ladder safety device, and follow the manufacturer’s instructions. By taking the time to properly set up and use your ladder, you can ensure that you have the right tool for the job and reduce the risk of injury.

References:

  1. CPSC (US Consumer Product Safety Commission) 2014.
  2. CDC, National Center for Health Statistics 2017. Multiple Cause of Death 1999-2015. http://wonder.cdc.gov/mcd-icd10.html.
  3. Image reference: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Extension_ladder_leaning_against_a_garage.JPG