Most homeowners will need to use a ladder at some point, whether to change a light bulb, paint your house, clean gutters or windows. Most people will think that a ladder is a pretty common tool around the house that is so simple to use, they don’t think about the safety aspect of proper use of a ladder.
Among construction workers, an estimated 81% of fall injuries treated in U.S. emergency departments, involve a ladder and 43% of fatal falls in the last decade have involved a ladder. (according to the CDC), And these are the trained professionals.
Safe Climbing Habits, from the folks at Werner Ladder.
Ladders are common tools that many people assume they know how to climb safely, when in fact they may not. Safe and efficient use of ladders is not complicated or difficult but it does require that the users practice proper ladder safety habits.
THE “RIGHT” WAY TO USE A LADDER
RIGHT
Properly set-up and use the ladder in accordance with safety instructions and warnings. Wear shoes with non-slip soles.
RIGHT
Center body on the ladder and keep belt buckle between the rails while maintaining a firm grip.
RIGHT
Haul materials with a line rather than carry them up an extension ladder. Use extra caution when carrying anything on a ladder.
RIGHT
Climb facing the ladder, move one step at a time and firmly set one foot before moving the other.
RIGHT
Have another person help with a heavy ladder. Have another person hold the ladder while you are working on it.
RIGHT
Move materials with extreme caution so as not to lose balance or tip the ladder.
THE “WRONG” WAY TO USE A LADDER
WRONG
DON’T stand above the second step from the top of a stepladder or the fourth rung from the top of an extension ladder.
WRONG
DON’T climb a closed stepladder. DON’T climb on the back of a stepladder. DON’T stand or sit on a stepladder top or pail shelf.
WRONG
DON’T climb a ladder if you are not physically and mentally up to the task.
WRONG
DON’T place the base of an extension ladder too close to or too far away from the building.
WRONG
DON’T over-reach, lean to one side or try to move a ladder while on it. Climb down and then reposition the ladder closer to your work.
WRONG
DON’T exceed the maximum load capacity or duty rating of a ladder. DON’T permit more than one person on a single-sided stepladder or an extension ladder.