A Builder’s Guide to Ladder Safety

CHICAGO—In the construction world, ladder safety should be the golden rule. Not only is it important for professional construction workers, but for amateur builders working on home improvement projects.

It’s important to not overlook basic common sense. Without routinely thinking about safe climbing techniques, ladder operation and maintenance before each use, accidents can happen. In fact, experts say the vast majority of accidents involving ladders result from the failure to exercise caution.

To ensure the proper safety techniques are being followed, education is important. To help educate the public effectively, ALI is now offering the humorous and wildly popular ladder safety video, Step Right Up.

"We know that construction workers are often equipped with basic ladder safety knowledge before stepping on a ladder," said Tom Greco, president of the American Ladder Institute (ALI). "But, the difference between those who incur injuries and those who avoid them often comes down to how seriously they take ladder safety."

Here are just a few ladder safety guidelines, which should be considered and followed with every climb.

Be a detective. Inspect the ladder itself, as well as the area around it. Be sure none of the ladder rungs are loose and that all of the hinges are operating properly. Check the physical structure of the ladder to make sure it is in good condition and that none of the rungs are bent or sagging. Make sure all nuts, bolts and rivets are tightly in place.

When you’re confident that the ladder is in good physical condition, check out the area in which the ladder will be used. If indoors, be sure you are not climbing too close to ceiling fans or other low objects which could be hazardous. If outdoors, be sure the ground is flat and stable. Always watch for power lines or other possible hazards, such as a bees nest.

Clean, clean clean. Be sure the ladder is free of all foreign substances, such as dirt, oil or other debris.

Not for resting. Simply stated, never sit or stand on the top cap of a step ladder – it is not designed to carry your weight. Most importantly, it is unsafe.

Can’t reach? Don’t! Keep your ladder within reach of the job at hand. Position the ladder close to your work. Be sure to step off the ladder and reposition the ladder when you feel the need to reach. Don’t compromise your balance by extending yourself beyond the ladder.

Don’t multitask. Do not attempt to carry tools up the ladder with you. Instead, have someone hand them to you when you reach your desired height. It’s important climb facing the ladder, while maintaining three points of contact with the rungs at all times (alternate your hands and feet so that three of them are on the ladder at all times. Start with two hands and one foot on the ladder, then two feet and one hand, etc.).

Doctors orders. If you are not in good health, don’t climb any ladder. This is especially important if you are feeling faint or dizzy. Instead, ask for help or wait until you are healthy.

To find out more about ladder safety or the Step Right Up video, visit www.americanladderinstitute.org to download an order form.

The American Ladder Institute was founded in 1947 and represents North American ladder manufacturers and is committed to the highest standards of ladder safety. ALI's mission is to educate the public as to the selection, care, and safe use of ladders and develop and disseminate the appropriate standards for design, construction, testing, care and use of ladders. For more information, please contact ALI Headquarters by calling 312-644-6610 or visit us online at www.americanladderinstitute.org.


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