Ladder Safety

Ladder Safety is a very important thing to be aware of when accessing the roof, cleaning the gutters or just general maintenance around the home.

It may surprise you that ladder falls are one of the leading causes of injury and death. Today, since this is a roofing page, we will discuss ladders and roofs. On a normal day, a roofer will access ladder many times and will be exposed to a fall. You...as a homeowner are exposed to the same kinds of falls but might not know some of the basics to ladder safety.

Safety tips for a ladder

• To start, let's talk about where to set the ladder. It should be on solid ground. Never place the ladder in mud or landscaping that is soaked from rain, where one leg of the ladder could sink. Never place your ladder on a slippery surface like a redwood deck. Landscaping that is not level can make the ladder unsecure and twist.

• Secure the ladder at the top by tying it down to the roof or gutter. This keeps the top of the ladder from sliding sideways. Always extend the ladder three feet above landing, eave or gutters. This allows you a good place to hold the ladder when accessing the roof. If your ladder is too short, get another longer ladder or secure the top rail and use a grab device installed on the roof deck.
• Make sure not to exceed the weight load the ladder is designed for. Weight capacity is stamped on the side rails of the ladder. Do not have two people at once on the ladder. As you climb the ladder upwards make sure it is stable.
• Prior to use the ladder it should be inspected for damage to rungs, worn footpads, and the general condition. If it’s broken, don’t take the risk of using it . . . but dispose of it and get a new ladder.
• Angle the ladder from the house about one foot back for every four feet of eave height. This is so the ladder and the weight on it is directed to the footpads of the ladder correctly. Ladders have a diagram of the correct angle on the side rail. Use it!
• Use both hands when climbing the ladder. As tempting as it is to carry things up with your hands, it is a good idea to use both hands as you climb the ladder, especially when exiting the ladder at the roof. For materials, tools, and equipment us a rope and a bucket to lift your tools up to the roof.

Using these few tips will help you avoid injuring yourself on a ladder.

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Disclaimer: The information provided on AskARoofer.com or information sent by emails is the opinion of the writers. It is the responsibility of the reader to check for accuracy in one's own jurisdiction, as there are different codes and restrictions for different parts of the country. AskARoofer.com does not accept any liability for the use of information on this website or email. AskARoofer.com has no controls over product failures, installation, or climate conditions that may change the roofing process in your area. Our information is in general to our area and cannot be the same as your local town or state. It is advised to seek the local Building Department, Licensed Contractor and local Product Representative for proper installation requirements and code enforcement when installing a new roof.