At least one time in your life you will probably find that you have to use a ladder. Maybe you have to use a stepladder to paint a wall or maybe you need to hang some flower baskets and need to use one of the many garden ladders out there. For those that have never used one before it can be a little bit of a daunting experience and for those that use them regularly they probably take them for granted and don’t follow all of the safety guidelines. Most people think they just need to use common sense which is of course true, but we’ve also listed a few do’s and don’ts to help you avoid sustaining a ladder related injury.

So first of all let’s start with the dos!

All ladders should come with safety instructions and warnings. Make sure you take the time to read these before you start using the ladder and follow the setup instructions to the letter. When you first use the ladder, make sure you are wearing non slip on shoes.

When using materials please use them carefully, so you do not lose balance or move the ladder.

When using the ladder make sure you keep your body in the centre, this will ensure the ladder stays balanced. Also make sure that you keep the belt buckle between the rails so the ladder doesn’t move and when climbing up make sure you keep a very firm grip.

Never climb up the ladder facing the wrong way. This is a one way ticket to the emergency room. Always climb facing the ladder, never skip steps and always make sure your foot is firmly set on one step before moving on to the next.

If you feel a little unstable have another person with you. Ask them to hold the ladder whilst you work on it. If you also own a relatively heavy ladder, ask them to help you move it if necessary. It will help minimise damage to not only your body but also to anything in your vicinity.

If you are using one of the many garden ladders that we supply we must insist that you do take more care when handling garden tools or products on garden ladders and always place garden ladders on a safe and secure surface. Not always an easy task in a garden.

Now it’s time for the don’ts.

Never stand above the second from the top step of a stepladder

If using an extension ladder, never stand above the fourth step from the top. Standing any higher may cause you to risk losing your balance.

When placing your ladder think about its position. Never place the base too close or too far away. You should never over reach or have to lean. It may take longer to climb down, move the ladder and then climb back up, but it will take a lot longer if you fall and seriously hurt yourself.

Never climb on a closed stepladder

All ladders will have a maximum load capacity. Be sure that you don’t ever go over that, if you do the ladder is not safe. You never want to use a ladder that is not safe.

Never let more than one person use the ladder at one time

If the thought of climbing a ladder scares you and you don’t feel mentally up to the challenge then seek help. You also shouldn’t climb a ladder if you are not physically able to. This will increase your chance of injury.

Our final don’t is concerning garden ladders. Use your common sense and never use garden ladders in the rain.

Remember, think before you climb.