December 4, 2003

 

Use Care When Using Ladders

When a ladder is used correctly your work can be done easier, faster and safer, according to George Maher, North Dakota State University Extension Service agriculture safety specialist. "If a few precautions are taken it is not difficult to use a ladder safely. Carefully select the best and safest type of ladder for the job."

A very popular type of ladder at home and on the farm is the stepladder. However, they are frequently used with little respect for safety, Maher says. "Many people believe that since the ladder has four feet on the ground and they won't be very high, there is little chance of a fall. Be sure that the stepladder you select is tall enough for the job. The top two steps should not be used and the work support should also not be used because it isn't strong enough."

Stepladders are freestanding meaning they don't need the support of something to lean against, although they can be used that way similar to a straight or extension ladder. The ladder should be positioned so it won't tip in any direction, especially to either side. "Some people fall when they try a balancing act on the ladder," Maher says. "Also, The spreaders should always be locked open when the ladder is used as a stepladder."

Straight ladders and extension ladders should be set up so the feet are about one foot away from the vertical support for every four feet of ladder height. This angle is important for safety and comfort. If the ladder is too vertical it is easier to fall backwards. If the ladder feet are further than the recommended distance from the vertical support, the ladder is more likely to slip from under you.

"Ladders that lean to either side are an accident waiting to happen," Maher says. "A ladder should be set up as straight as possible other than the angle towards the wall. Both rails of the ladder should rest firmly against the wall. A wobbly ladder is not safe to climb or work from."

As you climb the ladder, place each foot on the next step or rung as close as possible to the rail. This places more of your weight on the rail and not the center of the rung. Always climb facing the ladder and keep feet and one hand or both hands and one foot in contact with the ladder at all times. Use a safety belt if you need to work with both hands while on the ladder.

"Do not climb higher than the third step from the top of a straight or extension ladder," Maher says. "Climbing higher decreases your stability. Tie or fasten the ladder to the wall if you don’t feel the ladder is stable."

Leaning out the side or back of a ladder is not a safe practice. A recommended measure is to keep your belt buckle between the ladder rails. Move the ladder if you cannot reach the work. Adjusting the position of the ladder when you are on it is also not a safe practice.

Only one person should work on a ladder at a time. "If work needs to be done at the same time at two different levels then use two ladders," Maher says. "A second person can be used to steady the ladder at the base but that person should never climb the ladder. Never leave a ladder set up and unattended, it is tempting and dangerous."

Anything that is too large to fit in a pocket or hang from a belt should be raised or lowered with a handline, but only when you are safely in position. Use a rung hook to hold paint cans or tools while on the ladder. Do not allow anyone to work directly under you because you may accidentally drop something on the person below.

"Consider getting someone else to do the ladder work if you have a fear of heights," Maher says. "If you become disoriented and dizzy while on the ladder, drape both arms over a rung and rest your head against the ladder. Resume working when you feel more secure, or rest until you can come down safely. Know your limits and don't exceed them."

Always inspect a ladder before using it. Look carefully for cracks or splits in the rails, broken or missing rungs, and loose joints. The spreaders on each side of a stepladder should lock in position. Both of the hooks on extension ladders should work correctly. Do not use a ladder that has only one working hook.

The material the ladder is made of is another safety aspect to consider. Ladders are commonly made of wood, aluminum or fiberglass. Aluminum is a good conductor of electricity so an aluminum ladder should not be used when working near electrical sources. Aluminum ladders are very light which may be an important factor in other situations.

Wood ladders should not be painted since the paint may hide important defects. "Varnish is a good way to protect the wood but do not varnish the step surfaces or rungs because they can become slippery and dangerous," Maher says. Non_slip materials may by applied to the steps or rungs for additional grip.

Store ladders in a dry location. Stepladders can be stored with the front leaning against a wall so youngsters will not be tempted to climb them. Straight and extension ladders should be supported in a level position so they will not become warped.

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Source: George Maher, (701) 231_8288, george.maher@ndsu.nodak.edu
Editor: Rich Mattern, (701) 231_6136, richard.mattern@ndsu.nodak.edu