Ladder Safety and Your Home

  • Published
  • By SrA Kyle Evans
  • 88 ABW Safety
WRIGHT-PATTERSON AIR FORCE BASE, OH. --  
Many home projects require the use of ladders. From clearing rain gutters to decorating the Christmas tree, typically we do not think twice about using ladders. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the U.S. is ranked third in overall population; however, we lead the world in ladder deaths. Each year, there are more than 164,000 emergency room-treated injuries and 300 deaths in the U.S. that are caused by falls from ladders.
 
Every time we use a ladder, whether at home or work, we are exposed to the potential of fall hazards that can have tragic results. To minimize the likelihood of injury, we should consider these 10 ladder safety tips:
 
  1. Choose the right ladder. Think about the required height, the ladder style and material, and the surface on which the ladder will stand.
  2. Observe the highest standing level. This is the uppermost rung or step the climber is advised to use while the ladder is in the most preferred climbing position.
  3. Follow the 4-1 rule. For every 4 feet you are going to climb, you should move the base of the ladder 1 foot away from the wall or supporting structure.
  4. Understand working load. This is the maximum applied load, including the weight of the user, materials and tools, which the ladder is meant to support during use.
  5. Understand the duty rating. Also related to working load, the duty rating is defined as the maximum safe load capacity of the ladder.
  6. Inspect the ladder. Check the locks, hooks, ropes and shoes. Depending on the style of ladder, double-check any safety features before use.
  7. Consider what tools and accessories are needed. Once you climb the ladder, what kind of work needs to be done? What needs to be hauled up and what debris may need to be hauled down? This will factor into your workload.
  8. Review the OSHA safety labels. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration has standards covering general requirements for all types of ladders, including those meant for household use. (These are stickers on your ladder.)
  9. Assess the surroundings and surface. Before you place your ladder, look for a stable, level surface and avoid areas with power lines, equipment, trees, etc.
  10. Three points of contact. Always keep three points of contact on the ladder. Carry your tools on a tool belt or hoist tools to the work location using a bucket or bag that’s secured to a rope.
By following these ladder safety tips, you are helping yourself tackle projects safely and effectively and helping prevent ladder mishaps.
 
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