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Using Step Ladders and Staying Safe

Step ladders are perhaps the safest and most convenient method for working at height. A stepladder is basically an A-frame which makes it sturdier and safer to use than a conventional ladder.

Step ladders are ideal for working on ceilings or at low heights and they also offer the convenience of the platform at the top, which unlike other ladders, allows you to store materials and tools on the top.

Step ladders can still be dangerous though and injuries still occur from falls and slips; quite often it is because their hands are full whilst climbing preventing a person from gripping it correctly.

However, minimizing the risk of using a step ladder is quite simple and working on one should not be daunting and can be perfectly safe if you consider just four basic points:

Firstly, do not climb with tools in your hand - Perhaps the most common cause of accidents and easily the most avoidable. Either place the tools or materials on the shelf of the ladder before you climb it or if it is too high or the tools or materials are too heavy have them passed up or pulled with a pulley system to the correct working height.

Check the ladder's feet and its stability– Ensure the step ladder is on level ground and make sure the stepladder's feet are slip resistant (made from a rubbery material) and all 4 legs have feet attached to them. It is also important that they are all making contact with the ground as climbing on an unsteady stepladder is asking for trouble.

Never lean from the step ladder - If you find yourself leaning out from the ladder then it needs to be repositioned. Leaning from a step-ladder will cause it to topple and fall and is a common cause of accidents so only work within the confines of the ladder.

Ask for additional support – ask somebody to 'spot' the ladder for you will ensure it is as sturdy as possible and will help minimize the risk of accidents. Ask them to place one foot on the bottom step whilst holding each side with both hands.

By following these points you will find using stepladders a safe and convenient method of working at heights.

Richard n Williams

Richard N Williams is interested in ladders, extension ladders and step ladders. Please visit us website if you are interested in step ladders or other types of ladders.

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