Ladder Safety Tips

One of the many tools that home owners use regularly is a ladder. Whether you need to change the porch light bulb, clean the gutters or put something in the top of the closet. You may need a ladder to get the job done!

While ladders seem harmless enough and they are useful tools, accidents can still happen if you don't follow some simple safety tips. You may be shocked to hear that each year; more than 400,000 people are injured from a ladder accident and end up in the emergency room or doctor's office. Some injuries are as minor as cuts and scrapes while other injuries have resulted in broken bones or worse.

Below we are going to share some safety tips with you to ensure that you are properly using your ladder to get your chores done!

1. Before using the ladder, inspect it and make sure all the screws and side rails are in place. Stepping on to a ladder that isn't secure, can result in you taking a fall which is exactly what we want to avoid!

2. Check the bottom of the ladder to make sure there isn't any dirt, paint or liquid that has accumulated and will result in the ladder not being sturdy. For your safety, try to use ladders with non skid spurs ? this helps the ladder to stay in place and prevent you from sliding.

3. Make sure to properly set up your ladder before climbing on. The ladder should be on a firm, level surface ? never place a ladder on a surface that is uneven. Once you are certain the ladder is secure and level then make sure to lock the side rails to better secure the ladder.

4. Always position your ladder as close to the work area as you can. Do not overreach or stretch to the side, this could result in a fall if you lose your balance. It might take a little longer to finish your task if you keep getting off the ladder to reposition it but its best for your safety.

5. Never move the ladder with anything on top such as a hammer, paint can or the like. It won't feel too good to have a can of paint end up hitting you in the head ? any objects for that matter!

6. Don't be lazy and pull out the step ladder if you will need the bigger ladder! Stretching and overreaching is one of the most common ways that people get hurt when using a ladder. With a bigger ladder you also have more bracing and you can lean up against it while working.

7. Most importantly always climb and descend the ladder facing it and holding on with both hands whenever possible. Also be sure to take one step at a time, if you miss a step that can end up with you falling from the ladder.

By following these few safety tips you will be able to avoid any unnecessary accidents or trips the emergency room. I know these tips sound like common sense but I see people make these simple mistakes daily for lack of thinking while working on something and trying to hurriedly finish.

Chuck Greene is an electrician with what some would call an odd love of laddders, especially the Little Giant Ladder brand. He writes an maintains the Ladder Fanatic website in his spare time - which features information about the Little Giant Ladders and testimonials for happy customers.

---

Laminate Flooring Advantages

DurabilityBecause it's designed with a tough and durable wear layer,... Read More

Repairing Your Own Machine Components

Many industrial concerns have workshops of their own. For the... Read More

Heart of the Home

It started with my need for a new mixer. OK.... Read More

The Motors Best Friend

The starting current of motor can become 3 to 6... Read More

An Affordable Shortcut To Designing Your Dream Home

You have likely been making mental notes for years. Every... Read More

Successful Motor Protection Formulae

As we have discussed before, all overload relays have one... Read More

Tuscan Style Decorating For The Kitchen

A Tuscan decorating theme can put some old world charm... Read More

How To Select Scraped//Distressed Hardwood Flooring

Hand-scraped and Distressed hardwood floors are becoming a popular choice... Read More

Getting the Power to Control

One of the advantages of using machines to control processes... Read More

Hydronic vs Forced Air Heating and Cooling

Hydronic, or hot water, heating has been standard for years... Read More

Selecting a Laminate Floor to Suite Your Needs

The traditional look of hardwood flooring is timeless; its beauty... Read More

A Beautiful Carpet Sets The Mood Of Any Room

The first discovered carpet dates back to 1480 BC in... Read More

Outdoor Ceiling Fans Complement the House

Fans extending from the ceiling have been around for centuries... Read More

An Introduction to Waterproofing Systems

Many homeowners find it necessary to invest in a waterproofing... Read More

Cork Flooring Is The Best Option Around For Durability And Aesthetic Value

It is inevitable, almost everyone no matter how long they... Read More

Feng Shui, Design Psychology and Bed Placement

I love Feng Shui! Whether you believe this ancient Asian... Read More

Upholstery Fabric Will Give Your Furniture a New Look!

Upholstery fabric will put some new life into your old... Read More

Building or Decorating Your Home Requires House Plans

There are some things to consider when creating plans for... Read More

Choosing a Vinyl Replacement Window Contractor

Whenever I write an article, it's usually tailored to the... Read More

Installing Vinyl Replacement Windows on the Second Floor

If you have a two story house, and you are... Read More

Top Ten Air Purifier Questions

1. Do I really need an air purifier in my... Read More

Planning Permission Tips UK - Free Design Advice In The UK - How And Where To Get It

Isn't it funny how people shelve projects for the new... Read More

Kitchen Magic

It's amazing -- some people manage to get a complete... Read More

Create a Joyful Home with Living Accessories: Houseplants

Houseplants can be soothing because of their visual impact. Besides... Read More

Reuse Works for the Workshop

The workshop is a great place for reusing items formally... Read More

Reduce Your Heating Bills This Winter

Imagine leaving a window open all winter long -- the... Read More

At Last You Can Customize Your Pegboard As Much As You Want

Customizable metal pegboard is set to revolutionise utensil storage. For... Read More

The Solar Energy Industry Grew 67% Last Year: Are You Making the Best Decision for Your Future?

Are you considering using renewable energy resources to heat water... Read More

What Does It Take To Be An Interior Designer?

When trying to decide if Interior Design is right for... Read More

What is Design Psychology and How Will it Help Me?

In this article, we'll be taking a look at the... Read More

The Best Time to Inspect Your Home!

Home inspections conducted prior to a home being placed on... Read More

The Benefits of Steel Storage Buildings

Steel is gaining in popularity as a building material due... Read More

Baking Soda for Cleaning

Baking soda is a common, inexpensive household item that can... Read More