Every year, people suffer from injuries incurred by falls. Sometimes the injuries are minor, but other times they are so severe that they become life-threatening, and in the worst cases, falling from a ladder, for example, can even lead to sudden death.
While working at home, it is always very important to take precautions to be sure you are protecting yourself properly, and this is especially true when it comes to climbing a ladder. Whether you’re climbing a ladder to clean the gutters and upper windows of your house or to trim a large hedge, the risk of falling always exists, and the likelihood of injuries occurring increases further if you are also working with sharp tools.
So, here are a few safety measure to take the next time you use a ladder…
- Read the instructions and warning labels that come with the ladder. This will give you an idea of how to use the ladder effectively and avoid possible injuries.
- Take note of the maximum load the ladder can support. Normally, a regular ladder can only withstand the weight of one person at one time.
- Inspect the ladder before using it. Even if you’ve used the ladder recently, it is important to inspect it for signs of damage. If you find anything abnormal, repair it immediately and use only use the ladder if it is in good condition.
- Keep the ladder rungs and steps free from grease, wet paint, snow, oil, and any other material that can make them slippery.
- Before climbing a ladder, make sure your shoes free of debris and anything else that may cause them to slide.
- Choose the right kind of ladder for a specific task. Low and medium heights can easily be reached using utility ladders or step stools. High places usually require extension ladders. Never attempt to raise the height of your ladder using bricks or stones because that will pose a serious risk to the stability of the ladder and its ability to hold you.
- Position your ladder on stable ground. Avoid placing it in mud or over unstable foundations, as the ladder will be more likely to move and cause you to fall.
- Never climb up to the last two rungs of your ladder. This makes your ladder less stable and can cause it to break or fall over. Many ladders these days are built with an attached platform on the top rung for holding a can of paint, but do not mistake that area for a step.
- Before using an extension ladder, make sure that the locks are securely in place.
- Never position your ladder over a window or door. If a project requires you to do so, make sure that the openings are locked or guarded, so no one can open them while you are on the ladder and potential push you off.
