At the beginning of this year, SafetyNL conducted a study commissioned by Klium into the causes of accidents during odd jobs. A representative sample of 14 emergency departments from Dutch hospitals revealed that the ladder is by far the most dangerous tool. More than 40% of the do-it-yourselfers who had to be treated in the last five years had fallen off the ladder.

Why do people fall from a ladder?

Investigations in professional work environments indicate three main causes of accidents involving ladders. Incorrect positioning of the ladder is the main culprit, responsible for 43 percent of all accidents, according to one of the studies. In 32 percent of cases, the body becomes unbalanced – for example, by reaching too far – is the cause of a fall. And the condition of the ladder is responsible in 24 percent.

All these risks can be prevented by taking the right safety measures. The EC directive 2001/45 for safe working at height includes rules that employers and employees must comply with. The measures and precautions that make working with a ladder safer in professional environments also apply to the do-it-yourselfer.

10 ladder safety tips

1. Check that the ladder has no defects before use.

2. If you use a push-up ladder, let the parts overlap at least three rungs.

3. Place the ladder on a firm and level surface.

4. Place the ladder at a safe angle: 65 ° – 75 °.

5. Always climb with your face towards the ladder and your center of gravity directly above the step. Place your full foot on the step and always keep three points of contact with the ladder. It is advisable to wear sturdy, non-slip work shoes.

6. Do not hold tools in your hands when climbing, but use a tool belt.

7. Rather not stand higher than the fourth step from above. In professional environments, this is even one of the requirements.

8. Move the ladder on time so that you never have to reach more than a meter.

9. Never use a ladder with two people.

10. Do not leave the ladder unattended when in use, especially for children.

The right ladder for the job

Where professionals often have different ladders for different activities, this is of course not feasible for a do-it-yourselfer. When purchasing a ladder, ask yourself for which purposes you will need it most and what characteristics you expect from it. A simple wooden construction ladder is often a wise choice. This type can be fixed securely.

There are also lightweight aluminum ladders, extension ladders, push-up ladders, insulating plastic ladders and reform ladders, which can be placed in an A-shape. If you do not need a ladder with which you can work at great heights, then a stepladder may be a better solution, because it offers a greater degree of safety.

Tools for more safety

There are various products that further reduce the risks of working with a ladder.

  • A ladder mat prevents slipping and sinking on a not completely reliable surface.
  • A spacer ensures that the top of the ladder remains clear of the facade, allowing you to work in a more comfortable position.
  • With a ridge hook, you can attach the ladder on a sloping roof over the ridge.
  • Wooden or aluminum slats allow the ladder to rest against the frame when set up in front of a window.
  • With one of these fall protection products, you protect yourself if something should go wrong.