Introduction

The ladder is one of the most common pieces of equipment in the DIY ‘toolkit’.  But if it’s not used properly, it can also be one of the most dangerous.   Each year, thousands of New Zealanders are injured in the home.  Many of these injuries result from falls, so it makes sense to do what you can to help you stay on your feet – especially if you’re doing a bit of DIY work.   Here are four simple steps that will help you keep safe when you’re using a ladder around the home.   Even if you’re an old hand, and you’ve used a ladder for many years without mishap, give these guidelines a once over.  You may learn a small tip or two that will one day spell the difference between staying on the rungs or falling and injuring yourself.

Always ask yourself "Is a ladder the best and safest way of doing the job?"

A ladder is designed to be an access tool, NOT a working platform.  It can be tricky balancing on the rung of a ladder for even a short time – so the longer you try to stand on it, the more likely you are to lose your balance and fall.

Standing on a ladder for a long period of time is also tiring, as your muscles have to work hard to keep you stable.

So for bigger jobs such as painting and plastering, or any job where you need to stand for a reasonable period of time, it’s best to use some sort of work platform, such as scaffolding or trestles.

Check the ladder before use. Ask yourself "Is it safe?"

Check your ladder regularly to make sure it’s in good condition.  If you notice any cracks, bends or loose or missing parts, get them fixed promptly, or if necessary, buy a new ladder.

It’s just not worth taking risks when your ladder is all that’s supporting you, perhaps several metres above the ground.

When buying a ladder, ask the retailer which product is most appropriate for the work you’ll be doing.  Always check to make sure it complies with the Australian/New Zealand safety standards – look for the approved label (AS/NZS 1892.1.1996).  And make a point of reading the safety and operating instructions before you use the new ladder.

Set the ladder up wth care

Positioning the ladder correctly before you use it is one of the most important steps you can take towards maximising your safety.  Here’s how you can ensure your ladder is set up safely and securely.

Choose the right surface
Place the ladder on a firm, level surface.  If you put it on soft or uneven ground, it could lean and topple once you’re on it. If the ground is soft, place something firm under the ladder, such as a sheet of plywood.  

Secure the feet
The ladder will be less likely to slip if it has slip-resistant feet.  You can secure it further by placing sandbags behind the feet, or nailing a piece of wood into the ground.  It’s also a good idea to get someone to hold the ladder while you’re on it.

Get the right angle
Position the ladder at a 1:4 angle, ie one metre out at the base for every four metres of height.  Ensure the top of the ladder extends one metre above its resting point, and is clear of power lines.

Secure the ladder at the top
Ideally, tie the ladder to something stable, as close to the resting point as possible.  Cord around 4mm to 8mm thick is usually sufficient for this.

Use the ladder safely

Now that you’ve set up the ladder safely, follow the guidelines below to keep safe while you’re using it:

• keep three points of contact with the ladder at all times – two hands and one foot, or two feet and one hand
• if you must use two hands when working, use another part of the body (eg, thighs, shoulders, torso) as the third point of contact to brace against the ladder
• don’t carry tools up the ladder in your hands, keep your hands free for climbing (carry tools in a tool belt, builder’s pouch or backpack, and raise and lower larger tools or materials with a hand line)
• don’t over-reach sideways - climb down and move the ladder instead (when you’re on the ladder, you should keep your belt buckle between the uprights at all times)
• never climb higher than the third rung from the top
• keep the rungs free of clutter – if painting, a hook on the side of the ladder for your paint tin is recommended
• always face the ladder – don’t come down with your back facing the rungs.
   

Need More Information?

For more information on ladder safety, visit www.acc.co.nz/homesafety

Article Courtesy of New Zealand's Mitre 10 Projects Magazine: