The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Right Ladder & How to Use It Safely

Ladders are not that difficult to operate. But, their simplicity can make you overconfident and you may end up choosing the wrong ladder and using it carelessly. Using an inappropriate ladder for the job can prove to be dangerous. That's why, it is important to consider the nature of the task you’re trying to accomplish, determine the right size and type of ladder for the job, and ensure that you read every instruction mentioned on the ladder label before using it. Let's take a look at a few things you should keep in mind.

• The maximum height you need to reach
• The total weight you want to place on the ladder
• What's the nature of the Job i.e. Indoor or outdoor

Make Sure To Place Your Ladder on a Firm Surface

Whether you're using your ladder for some indoor task or an outdoor job, make sure your ladder is placed on a solid firm surface. Avoid wet, soft, or slippery surfaces at all costs. If you're not able to find a solid surface, take a thick board and place it over the soft surface. Now, place your ladder’s feet on this board.

• Never use an unstable surface like a windowpane to support/lean your straight and extension ladder.
• The thumb rule is - place your ladder 1 ft away (for every 4 feet of the height of the ladder) from the vertical surface it is leaned on. For instance, if your ladder's height is 8 feet, place its feet at 2 feet away from the vertical surface.
• Make sure to fasten your ladder (straight or extension) securely to the support.
• Properly open the ladders before climbing.
• If your ladder is placed in front of a door, make sure to guard it so that no one will open it unknowingly. This is especially dangerous if the doors are opened towards the ladder.
• Always use the right size. Never place a barrel or box under your ladder for extra height.

Climbing with Care

Ladders are common tools and most people use them frequently for everyday tasks. Though ladders are relatively safer, most people tend to become complacent while using them. That's why it's important to be completely focused and mindful every time you use your ladder.

• Make sure to grip the ladder rungs instead of side rails while facing the ladder.
• When using the ladder, keep three points of contact with your ladder i.e. 2 feet and 1 hand or 2 hands and 1 foot.
• Avoid getting off the ladder from one side.
• Make it a point to extend your extension ladder 3ft above the area you want to reach.
• Never go higher than the 3rd step from the top.
• Do not try to overreach or lean while standing on the ladder. It's better to reposition your ladder.
• Don't carry tools in your hands while climbing. Make use of a tool belt.
• Always wear shoes with slip-resistant soles.
• Don't ask someone to climb up the ladder while you're still using it. There should be only one person on the ladder at a time.

Consider Weather Conditions

Anyone with some common sense knows that using a ladder during a storm or strong winds is not a good idea. Let's take a look at a few important things to consider in case of bad weather.

• Avoid using an extension ladder in inclement and windy weather.
• If the weather goes bad, climb down the ladder immediately and wait for it to settle down.
• Make sure to clean your ladder regularly to prevent any accumulation of dirt. This is especially important if you keep your ladder outside or in wet conditions.

There you have it - some of the most important tips you should keep in mind to use your ladder safety tips and efficiently. Don’t risk an injury trying to repair your own roof, call Magnolia Roofing today at 985-200-4812. We serve Mandeville, Slidell, and all Northshore areas of Louisiana.

John is an Real state blogger and marketing manager. He maintains keen interest ongoing and development within the marketing and business space.