Ladders and step ladders are essential for all sorts of DIY tasks, whether you’re changing a lightbulb, installing a shelf or hanging decorations. Although they may seem simple enough to understand, improper use of ladders can cause serious injury – in fact, ladders and step ladders are among the leading causes of DIY-related accidents and injuries!
If you plan on using a ladder or step ladder anytime soon for some at-home DIY, start by reading through these top tips on how to stay safe. Let’s get started!
Select the right ladder for the job.
Choosing the correct ladder for your task is crucial for both safety and efficiency. Using a ladder that isn’t suited to a task can lead to accidents and injuries, whereas using the correct ladder should ensure stability, sufficient reach and the ability to handle tasks efficiently and quickly.
Your ladder should be tall enough that you can reach your desired area without having to overreach or stand on the top three rungs (which are to be used as handholds only).
You should also consider what material is most appropriate for your DIY task. For example, if you are working with electrics, you should use a fibreglass ladder that doesn’t conduct electricity.
Don’t forget to also check the ladder’s weight capacity before use, factoring in the weight of any tools you will be using in order to avoid overloading the ladder.
Always inspect your ladder for damage before use.
Before each and every use of your ladder or step ladder, you should carry out a thorough inspection for damages and faults. If you see any signs of damage (e.g. cracks or bends in the rungs, stiles or feet, faulty locking mechanisms or loose hardware), you should not use the ladder and instead find an appropriate replacement.
Ensure your ladder is set up safely and securely before you climb.
Setting up your ladder or step ladder correctly is crucial for your safety. Even the sturdiest of ladders can slip when placed on a rug, slick floor or generally uneven ground. Always make sure your ladder is positioned on a solid and level surface in a safe environment and away from any hazards.
When positioning your ladder, remember the ‘1 in 4’ rule: for every 4 feet of ladder height, the base of the ladder should be 1 foot away from the surface it is leaning against. For example, if your ladder is 10 feet high, the base should be 2.5 feet away from the wall. This should ensure that your ladder has maximum stability.
Make sure you keep three points of contact with the ladder at all times.
When climbing your ladder, try to maintain three points of contact with the ladder at all times. Ideally this will be two feet and one hand, but if you need both hands to complete a task, you can lean your knees or chest against the ladder as a third point of contact. Following this rule should help prevent you from losing your balance and toppling the ladder.
Never overreach or lean too far to one side.
Overreaching and leaning while climbing a ladder also risks the ladder becoming unbalanced and tipping. By following the so-called ‘belt buckle rule’, you can avoid this issue. The rule recommends that you keep your belt buckle (or if you’re not wearing a belt, your belly button) in between the ladder’s side rails. If you find yourself leaning past this point or twisting to reach the desired spot, climb down and reposition your ladder instead.
By following these five easy tips, you can enhance the safety of your DIY endeavours and reduce the risks of any ladder-related accidents and injuries. So, next time you’re getting your ladder out to clean your gutters or paint a wall, keep these safety tips in mind!
For more DIY tips, check out The Busy Mom’s Guide to DIY.