DON’T MISS THESE DO'S AND DON’T'S OF STEP LADDER USE

 We've published quite a few posts about step ladders and ladder use on the Ladder Store UK blog in recent weeks. Our goal was to push the topic of ladder safety really hard because every month, more than a thousand people need hospital treatment due to accidents at home involving step ladders.

We decided to compile a simple list of dos and don'ts in addition to our recent blog posts on step ladder usage and measuring for ladders:
MANUAL OF OPERATIONS - THE DOS FROM PRE-TO-POST-USE
  • A ladder should only be used by those who are fit enough to do so. Prescription medications and some medical conditions may make using a ladder dangerous.
  • Before using a ladder, make sure to perform all of the pre-use checks and visual inspections, such as making sure the ladder is sitting on an even surface. A previous blog post covering how to use Step Ladders safely explained this in great detail
  • Please ensure you are informed about any electrical hazards in the work area, such as overhead lines or equipment exposed to electricity. Make sure you are using a nonconductive step ladder when you are around electricity - an example is one made of fibreglass
  • Step Ladders
    • You should always be aware of your surroundings. You should not place the ladder in the way of pedestrians, vehicles, doors, or other dangers
    • If you plan on working on the Step Ladders UK, make sure you secure all locking devices. It is their job to keep you safe.
    • Ensure that you keep a firm grip on the ladder while ascending and descending. Whenever you are working from a ladder, remember to maintain a handhold, and take additional safety precautions if you can't.
    • A regular periodic inspection of your ladder is vital to ensure it is in good working order and safe to use
    DON'T DO THIS - FROM PRE-USE RIGHT THROUGH WORK
    • Step ladders that are damaged should not be used. Using a damaged ladder, no matter if it's a 5-minute job or a one-hour job will always increase your chances of getting hurt
    • The use of damaged step ladders is not recommended. The chances of getting injured increase regardless of whether you are doing a 5-minute job or an hour-long job on a damaged ladder
    • A Heavy Duty Step Ladders should not be used during adverse weather conditions, such as strong winds or rain
    • Aluminum Step Ladders
      • Step ladders should not be loaded beyond their maximum capacities. The total load should always be clearly mentioned in the product description.
      • The top two steps of a standing ladder are not to be touched without a platform and handrail, and the top four steps of a standing ladder with an extending ladder are not to be touched
      • Step ladders can be dangerous if used for long periods of time. Light work should only be performed on them for short periods. Remember to take frequent breaks when using a ladder over a long period of time - tiredness can be very dangerous
      Hopefully, you enjoyed our blog series on Industrial Step Ladders safety. We'd be glad to answer any further questions you might have on the topic. We can also answer any questions you might have about any step ladders we offer on our website.


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