It all begins with the saying, “The right tool for the right job.” Ladder use is no exception to this guideline, as the selection of a ladder by size and type can make or break a safe job. As I spend a lot of time working on ladders, I have become fairly comfortable with their use. However, a recent event showed me to never let my guard down. My Dad was hanging a swing in a backyard tree when the branch he was leaning his ladder against broke and caused him to fall and injure his back.
According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, my Dad was only one of the estimated 500,000 people who are injured annually while using a ladder and is included in the approximately 164,000 people whose injuries land them in the Emergency Room.
As put forth in The 3 C’s of Prevention, one must evaluate the task at hand. While working for a local Parks Department at one of my first jobs, I watched a coworker set up an 8’ stepladder on top of scaffolding to reach a soffit at the pool we were painting. The ladder became wobbly, and he fell and broke his leg. It’s not hard to see that if he had stepped back and evaluated the situation and risks, there would have been several better options.
General Safety Rules
Ladders are available in aluminum and fiberglass. Aluminum ladders are lightweight, less expensive, and for general use. Fiberglass is a good choice for working near electrical hazards (it’s non-conductive) and is generally more heavy-duty but costs more.
Take caution to observe the duty ratings of ladders. Duty rating is defined as the maximum safe load capacity of the ladder. This is the total weight of the user and all tools and materials, which must be under the rating.
Use all ladders on a level and stable surfaces, and observe the maximum working height guidelines posted on the label.
Step Ladders
Stepladders range from 2’-12’ and are taller. Because they have different feet than an extension ladder, they are meant to be used open and not leaning against a wall. Stepladders have maximum working heights to observe, and of course, NEVER stand on the top platform or on the rungs. Also, from personal experience, do not ever leave items lying on the top or rungs of the ladder. An unsuspecting person can jolt it free or move the ladder, potentially resulting in a head injury!
Extension Ladders
Extension ladders, which range in height from 16’- 40’, are used to reach places much higher than a stepladder. One concern with these is the proper slope when setting up. The suggested ratio is 1’ from the wall at the bottom for each 4’ of elevation. When using up to the roof line or similar point of contact, extend the rails 3’ beyond the said point.
Many accidents occur by persons carrying too many tools or materials with them, so a hoist rope with a bucket attached is a good alternative! One trade tip is if you are planning to work near electrical lines, you can contact your local utility to have a rubber “line cover” put on the wires to avoid accidental contact.
- Before using a ladder outdoors, choose a location that is well away from all power lines. Coming in contact with live wires can be deadly.
- Place the ladder on level ground and open it completely. Make sure all locks are in place.
- Use the 4-to-1 rule for extension ladders. For every 4 feet of distance between the ground and the upper point of contact (such as the wall or roof), move the ladder’s base out 1 foot.
- Always face the ladder when climbing and wear slip-resistant shoes, such as rubber soles.
- Make sure the rungs are dry before using the ladder.
- Keep your body centered on the ladder and test your safety with your belt buckle. You are reaching too far if your clip passes beyond the ladder rail. This can cause a fall.
- Stand at or below the highest safe standing level on a ladder. For an extension ladder, the safe standing level is the fourth rung from the top.
Accessories
There are many accessories to help use ladders safely. Such items include, but are not limited to, leveling legs, stabilizer bars (pictured), paint trays, hook systems, rubber boots, etc. However, nothing beats a best friend holding you tightly on the ground!
Ladder Safety Tips
Falls are by far the leading cause of home injury deaths. Using a safe and sturdy ladder is the safest way to climb indoors and out. Whether you’re spring cleaning, hanging decorations, or painting, the same basic ladder safety rules apply:
- Always use a sturdy ladder when climbing. It’s too dangerous to climb on a chair.
- Place the ladder on level ground and open it completely. Make sure all locks are in place.
- Always face the ladder when climbing and wear slip-resistant shoes, such as rubber soles.
- Keep your body centered on the ladder and test your safety with your belt buckle. You are reaching too far if your clip passes beyond the ladder rail. This can cause a fall.
- Stand at or below the highest safe standing level on a ladder. The safe standing level is the second rung from the top for a stepladder.
