subject: The Correct Way to Use a Leaning Ladder [print this page] The Correct Way to Use a Leaning Ladder The Correct Way to Use a Leaning Ladder
Leaning ladders have a bad reputation. Many people are reluctant to use them because of safety fears, and while it is true, leaning ladders do account for many accidents each year this is never normally the ladders fault.
Most accidents when people are working at height on leaning ladders is normally down to the fact it is not being used properly. When used correctly a leaning or extension ladder is no more dangerous than any other tool.
There are five steps to using these valuable pieces of equipment properly: Inspection Location Erection Ascension Operation.
Inspection
The first step to safe use of an extension ladder is inspection. The entire ladder should be inspected paying particular attention to the rungs. Check for any cracks, bending or buckling and under no circumstances should a damaged one be used.
Location
The location should be inspected too and ensured it is flat and free from loose materials. Avoid placing a ladder on grass or an uneven surface. And don't use a ladder in very wet conditions. Rain can, not only make the ladder slip, but can also make your footing precarious too.
Erection
A leaning ladder should be angled at just the right angle. Too shallow and it could slip; too steep and you could topple backwards. The best angle is approximately a quarter of the length you extend the ladder to. So if you erect it twelve feet upwards, place the base three feet from the wall. It's a good idea to get somebody to foot if for you too. This is not to prevent slipping, as most people assume, but to stabilize it as you climb and work.
Ascension
Never climb whilst carrying tools and equipment and keep three points of contact at all times. Never climb too high ensure there are three rungs above where you are working.
Operation
Never lean out when working up ladders. Try to work in the confines of and if you can't, climb down and re-site. Avoid jerky and sudden movements and make sure you take care not to drop tools or equipment as it could cause serious injury to anybody below.
