Your Complete Guide to Ladder Safety

There's a lot more to using a ladder than simply propping it against a wall. This guide to ladder safety is a must-read for any do-it-yourselfer. Several factors come in to play when we discuss ladder safety, including ladder type, set-up, working around obstacles, and much more. Before you begin your next home improvement project, take a moment to discover the basic safety tips we've listed below.

Are you using the right ladder?

Every ladder is created different, and some are better for one job than another. To ensure your safety, be certain you are using the best ladder for the job. If you're working outside, an extension ladder will likely be the best choice. On the other hand, if you're working with electricity, under no circumstances should a metal ladder be used. Find out more about 'Choosing the Best Ladder for Your Needs'.

Secure the ladder's feet

A quality ladder will have traction on the feet to keep it from slipping and moving when in use. To add extra security, or to give a ladder without traction a bit of leverage, place cinderblocks, bricks, or heavy plywood behind the legs of the ladder to keep it steady.

Three Points of Contact

In the construction industry, there is a 'Three Points of Contact' rule that should be followed anytime you are working above ground level. This rule helps prevent human error and should be used in the home setting, as well. This rule requires a user to maintain three points of contact at all times - Two hands and one foot on the ladder, or two feet and one hand on the ladder, at all times. No exceptions!

Proper stance

To ensure your safety on a ladder, stand with your hips between the ladder rails. Keep your weight centered, never leaning to one side of the other.

Working with tools

Never carry any loose object up the ladder with you. This includes small tools, power tools, rope, and so on. Instead, wear a tool belt that will hold essential tools, or place bigger items inside a bucket, which can be secured at a higher level with a rope.

Situations to avoid

1. Never work on a wet ladder.

2. Avoid ladders when it is raining.

3. Keep ladders away from power lines.

4. Avoid working on a ladder when there are strong gusts of wind.

5. Lock any doors that you are working in front of.

6. When working around windows, use a U-shaped stabilizer bar to stabilize the ladder.

7. Never leave a ladder unattended when children are in the area.

Additional ladder safety tips

- When setting up a ladder, ensure that the base is steady and all joints are locked into place.

- Stay safe on a ladder by wearing non-slip shoes or boots when working.

- Never push or pull when on the ladder.

- If necessary, secure the ladder to the exterior of the house to keep it steady while working.

- When using a ladder to climb onto a roof, extend its height an additional 3' above the edge of the roof. This will provide a small area to hold on to when stepping off the ladder.

- Set the ladder up at a 75 degree angle. When standing, you should be able to reach out and rest your hands on the ladder rungs.

More from Jennifer Wagner:

Simple Ways to Improve Home Safety

Choosing the Best Ladder for Your Needs

Septic Tank Maintenance and Care

Source:

Personal knowledge

Jennifer Wagner - Yahoo! Contributor Network