Ladder Safety Tips

One of the many tools that home owners use regularly is a ladder. Whether you need to change the porch light bulb, clean the gutters or put something in the top of the closet. You may need a ladder to get the job done!

While ladders seem harmless enough and they are useful tools, accidents can still happen if you don't follow some simple safety tips. You may be shocked to hear that each year; more than 400,000 people are injured from a ladder accident and end up in the emergency room or doctor's office. Some injuries are as minor as cuts and scrapes while other injuries have resulted in broken bones or worse.

Below we are going to share some safety tips with you to ensure that you are properly using your ladder to get your chores done!

1. Before using the ladder, inspect it and make sure all the screws and side rails are in place. Stepping on to a ladder that isn't secure, can result in you taking a fall which is exactly what we want to avoid!

2. Check the bottom of the ladder to make sure there isn't any dirt, paint or liquid that has accumulated and will result in the ladder not being sturdy. For your safety, try to use ladders with non skid spurs ? this helps the ladder to stay in place and prevent you from sliding.

3. Make sure to properly set up your ladder before climbing on. The ladder should be on a firm, level surface ? never place a ladder on a surface that is uneven. Once you are certain the ladder is secure and level then make sure to lock the side rails to better secure the ladder.

4. Always position your ladder as close to the work area as you can. Do not overreach or stretch to the side, this could result in a fall if you lose your balance. It might take a little longer to finish your task if you keep getting off the ladder to reposition it but its best for your safety.

5. Never move the ladder with anything on top such as a hammer, paint can or the like. It won't feel too good to have a can of paint end up hitting you in the head ? any objects for that matter!

6. Don't be lazy and pull out the step ladder if you will need the bigger ladder! Stretching and overreaching is one of the most common ways that people get hurt when using a ladder. With a bigger ladder you also have more bracing and you can lean up against it while working.

7. Most importantly always climb and descend the ladder facing it and holding on with both hands whenever possible. Also be sure to take one step at a time, if you miss a step that can end up with you falling from the ladder.

By following these few safety tips you will be able to avoid any unnecessary accidents or trips the emergency room. I know these tips sound like common sense but I see people make these simple mistakes daily for lack of thinking while working on something and trying to hurriedly finish.

Chuck Greene is an electrician with what some would call an odd love of laddders, especially the Little Giant Ladder brand. He writes an maintains the Ladder Fanatic website in his spare time - which features information about the Little Giant Ladders and testimonials for happy customers.

---

New Trends in Design & Comfortable Living

For the past several years I have seen the emergence of a new trend called 'Lifestyling'. Lifestyling encompasses many elements on gracious living, extravagant and memorable entertaining,... Read More

Installing a Brick or Paver Walkway

The use of Bricks or Pavers to create a walkway or patio complements a home in a way that is unmatched. It adds a level of quality... Read More

The Organized Move: Preparing Your Home for the Publics Eye

(This is the first in a series of three articles on "The Organized Move")The thought of moving can set most of us in a tailspin, but what... Read More

5 Questions To Ask Before Starting Any Home Improvement Project

1. What experience does your contractor have with this type of project?How much experience does the home improvement contractor have in doing projects like yours? Does s/he... Read More

A Few Concrete Suggestions

Up until a few years ago, my professional experience was in industries including retail, energy, health care, and fast food. In 1996 circumstances and opportunity led me... Read More

Installing Vinyl Replacement Windows In A Wood Frame Opening

When we left off last week, we had removed the old wood sash windows and prepared the opening for the vinyl replacement windows. Now it's time to... Read More

Your Home is Your Symphony

"Dr. Carl Sagan once wrote, "Somewhere, something incredible is waiting to be known." Although Dr. Sagan was commenting on the wonders to be found in the vastness... Read More

Does Your Home Need Concrete Waterproofing?

Many areas of your home can benefit from concrete waterproofing. If you have a concrete deck, patio or driveway, many waterproofing methods can extend their life and... Read More

Planning Permission Tips UK - What To Show And What Not To Show On Your application Drawings

Many successful business deals are the result of being a bit canny with the information that you already know - keeping a tight lip when needed and... Read More

Clearing the Air on What to Look for in an Air Purifier

If you are dedicated to improving the indoor air quality of your home, you're aware that there are certain steps you need to take to reduce the... Read More

Do You Have a Master Bedroom? You Shouldnt! Tips for Remodeling Your Bedroom

The word "master" is an antiquated term that suggests control, domination, and inequality, and in today's cooperative partner and/or single parent household, the label "master suite" has... Read More

Planning Permission Tips UK - Agricultural Plots of Land for Sale - The Latest Mug Punter Scam?

The first part of most years brings a flurry of trade shows aimed at the public & trade alike such as The Ideal Home Show, Interiors &... Read More

Family Fun ? Is Swimming In A Safe Pool

Family fun is one of the most important things you can strive for to give your children some lasting memories they will always cherish; even into adulthood.... Read More

Improving Your Bottom Line Through Vastu

The design of your office and home has a great influence on your financial success. If your work or living environments are in harmony with nature they... Read More

How To Artify Your Home

Would you like to make your house feel more like a home? Is it comfortable enough, but not really special? If so, I have some easy 'arty'... Read More

What is Wire EDM?

What exactly is wire electrical discharge machining, also referred to as Wire EDM? Wire EDM is the process whereby hard metals, those that previously could not be... Read More

How To Buy Double Glazing In The UK

Double glazing reduces heat loss through your windows. You can save money on your heating bills. However, it will be a long time before you save enough... Read More

Electric Radiant and Floor Coverings

If the decision of what type radiant heating system to use was left to the floor-coverings, it would choose electric radiant. Eliminating the risk of water/glycol leaks,... Read More

How to Select Exterior Shutters

Installing exterior shutters is a relatively quick way to add style and color to the outside of a house. Historical and modern houses alike benefit from the... Read More

Bring Out the Comforters for Back to School

If the weather is turning chilly it must time for the kids to go back to school. Bring out the comforters, flannel bed linens, quilts and stadium... Read More

Keeping Stone Floors in Tip Top Condition

I had a customer call me to make a complaint about the Limestone floor we had restored and sealed for them. The building is a state of... Read More

Inspecting your Swimming Pool

With the varied availability of swimming pool equipment and designs, you have a lot to think about when it comes to safety. Whether you use different types... Read More

How House Plans Work

The Ins and Outs Of Choosing Online Custom Home Plans! So you've decided to build your own home, congratulations! Now where do you go from here?If you... Read More

What To Look For In Persian Rugs

Selecting a Persian rug can be a daunting task for most people. There is a lot of misinformation out there as to what to look for. Let's... Read More

A Few Simple Facts About Gas And Electric Heating Systems

To make your home more energy efficient, you need to understand the energy efficiency of different types of heating and cooling systems. Many times people are confused... Read More

Make a Grand Entrance of Your Front Door

You may find it difficult to believe that the days will start getting longer in the Northern Hemisphere in just four short weeks. You can find yourself... Read More