Ladder safety

More than 547,000 people were treated for injuries related to ladder use in 2004, according to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, but according to physicians and the American Ladder Institute many injuries can be avoided.

Start by inspecting the ladder before using it. Don’t use ladders that are broken or bent, don’t make a temporary repair to a ladder and don’t use a ladder covered by grease, oil, mud or other slippery materials.

When moving a ladder, you should carry a single or extension ladder parallel to the ground. Hold the side rail in the middle of the ladder so you can balance the load.

When setting up a ladder, make sure it will not hit electrical wires, tree limbs or other obstructions when it is extended. To ensure that the ladder is stable, place the feet on firm, even ground.

The bottom of the ladder should be 1 foot away from the wall for every 4 feet that the ladder rises. If you are going to climb onto a roof, the ladder should extend 3 feet higher than the roof. The upper and lower sections of an extension ladder should overlap to provide stability.

Before climbing a ladder, make sure the locks are secured and the bottom and top of the ladder rails are on firm surfaces.

• Face the ladder while climbing and stay in the center of the rails. Grip both rails securely while climbing. Do not lean over the side of the ladder.
• On single or extension ladders, never stand above the third rung from the top and never climb above the point where the ladder touches the wall or vertical support.
• Never stand on the top rung of any ladder.
• Don't overload a ladder; it is meant to be used by only one person at a time.
If you fall from a ladder, calmly assess the situation and determine if you are hurt. Get up slowly. If an injury has occurred, call for assistance.