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.

---

Interior Design For Couples

Interior design for couples is one of the hottest, most... Read More

10 Things You Can Do Now To Prepare For Hurricane Season

The 2005 hurricane season is right around the corner and... Read More

Laminate Flooring Advantages

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

10 Common Uses for Baking Soda

Baking soda is a great household cleaner. Here are ten... Read More

Five Ways to Create a Healthy Home

Have you ever thought of your home as being healthy... Read More

CCTV for the Home

Securing your property is one of the growing domestic issues... Read More

Why Should You Need Tools for Everyday Living

How often you have used tools for your everyday living?... Read More

Add Value to Your House - Interior Remodelling

Interior remodeling can have an amazing impact on the look... Read More

Create a Luxurious Laundry Room

Give your home a luxurious feel with a beautiful laundry... Read More

A Lasting Scent

Look no further for long lasting perfumes. House of Rose... Read More

Reviewing and Evaluating Laminate Floors

Since the introduction of laminate flooring into the US in... Read More

What Are Circuit Breakers?

Circuit Breakers are devices that stop the electrical current of... Read More

The Organized Move: Preparing Your Home for the Publics Eye

(This is the first in a series of three articles... Read More

What Are Light Fixtures Used For?

Light fixtures are something not many of us think about.... Read More

Electric Radiant Floor Heating

Electric radiant floor heating systems are heating systems designed for... Read More

Heres What a Jacuzzi Will Do For You

Jacuzzi's are a great recreational and health benefit for a... Read More

Cheap Interior Design Ideas

Cheap interior design ideas come in many forms these days.... Read More

Physiological Response to Window Coverings

Nothing soothes the brain like Mother Nature, whose intrinsic scenery... Read More

A Guide to Home Dehumidifiers

It can be difficult to choose from among the countless... Read More

How to Install a New Toilet in 5 Easy Steps

If your toilet is old and in need of repairs,... Read More

Colour Your World With Art

When you buy art, you may think you not consciously... Read More

Contractor Referral

"As a contractor with 16 years of experience and speaking... Read More

If You Want to Bring Your Bathroom Up to Date, Consider Fitting a Shower Stall

Modern shower stalls look sleek and stylish. If you have... Read More

Sump Pump Installation for Do-It-Yourselfers

According to recent surveys, over 85% of all homes with... Read More

A Look at Steel Building Kits

Steel building kits are a comprehensive set of all the... Read More