​​What angle should you position ladders at?

With light nights and warmer weather upon us, we are urging people to be careful in the use of ladders. Barmy summer nights bring out ladder users in their droves – and with them the less experienced users.

Using a ladder might seem simple enough, however, a lot can go wrong before you even start using it. Before you even move the ladder from its storage place, make sure you are confident in using it. If you are not confident, do not use a ladder.

Inspect your ladder before using it

Even the more experienced ladder users often become complacent and miss out on this important step. Whether your ladder is in use daily or occasionally always check for damage prior to use. This includes checking for damage to the sides, and steps and making sure the locking mechanisms are working as they should.

If your ladder has been dropped or shows any sign of damage, do not use it.

What angle should a leaning ladder be used at?
A leaning ladder has to be leaned against a wall in order to use the ladder properly. Such examples include extension ladders, multi-purpose ladders and telescopic ladders. Essentially, they are usually ladders with only two feet.

• What angle should a ladder be placed at?

It is essential that you ensure your leaning ladder angle is correct before using it. As a general rule, the correct angle for a ladder and its safe use is 75 degrees. Never adjust the angle to achieve a higher or lower working height when using a ladder. Ladders should be able to comfortably reach the job you are working on without having to adjust the angle. On top of that, make sure you establish a strong upper resting point, and that the base of the ladder is stable, even flooring that its two feet will not budge on. Rubber feet will increase the level of friction and stability of your ladder. A strong foundation is key to ladder safety.

The only time to use a steeper angle is when using an extension ladder, where you must follow the 4:1 ratio rule. This means that for every 4 feet of ladder height, you must place the ladder 1 foot away from the wall.

The most common reason ladder accidents occur is due to an incorrect angle being used. Never try to obtain extra height by balancing your ladder on items such as pallets, bricks or from a scaffold tower.

• Climbing the ladder safely

Both hands should be used to climb a ladder’s rungs properly. Facing the ladder whilst ascending is the correct way to climb. Wear a tool belt rather than carrying tools in your hands as your hands need to firmly grip the sides. You should only let go of the ladder as briefly as possible once you have climbed to the required height in order to carry out your job. Never work on the top three rungs of the ladder.

• Never over lean

Never take risks with ladders. If you find yourself leaning to reach other parts of the job, then you need to climb down the ladder and reposition the base of the ladder. There is a test known as the ‘belt buckle test’. If you find your belt buckle is outside the rung area of the ladder then you are overleaning and risk falling or the ladder slipping. Avoiding stretching upwards is also important as you could lose your balance.

• Do not overload your ladder

All ladders come with a maximum weight capacity. Check the manufacturer’s instructions if you are not sure. Most of our ladders here at BPS Access Solutions have a maximum weight of 23.5 stones. Remember this is not just your own weight, but that of access equipment and your tools also.

• Look out for overhead power lines

When carrying your ladder look out for overhead power lines. Remember electricity is a conductor of metal objects. Avoid working 6 horizontal metres to power lines – and never take anyone else’s word that they are ‘dead’ always treat power lines as if they are live. If you are an electrician carrying out electrical work at height, a non-conductive ladder, usually an extension ladder, would be a far safer option. Our fibreglass extension ladder is non-conductive up to 30,000 volts and could be a lifesaver should a mistake or accident occur.

• Keeping your ladder stable

There is never any guarantee that a ladder will never slip, however, you can protect yourself further by tying your ladder to upper support. Avoid tying it to plastic objects such as gutters, which could come away if the ladder slips.

Poor stability often accounts for accidents and is often due to uneven ground where they are placed. Using a levelling mat at the base of the ladder can help alleviate this problem and can make positioning your ladder on uneven or sloping ground far safer. Our levelling mat also provides additional grip and prevents the ladder from sliding or slipping from beneath you.

Step Ladder Safety Precautions

Many people think that a step ladder is safer than its leaning counterpart due to the four feet, however, they can present the same dangers particularly if they are set up incorrectly.

• Check your step ladder is in contact with the ground

There is more scope for instability issues with step ladders, so be sure to check that all four feet are in contact with the ground.

• Only carry out light work

Avoid using heavy tools and materials when using a step ladder. They are designed for light work.

• Do not overreach

The overreach rules are the same on a step ladder – don’t overreach or stretch. Avoid using the top 3 steps unless there is a handrail provided.

• Ensure locking devices are enabled

Do not use the step ladder if you are in any doubt about its safety.

• Remember the 3-points of contact rule

Keep both feet on the step ladder at all times and one hand. If both hands are needed, use the stepladder to support your body. Always work with the job facing you, never work from the side or leaning over. This is called the 3 points of contact rule.

Follow our safety tips….

and you will avoid a ladder accident this Summer. Always follow these safety tips regardless of when you use your ladder and you will avoid some of the most common ladder accidents.