Everything You Need To Know About Ladder Safety
Most of us have a ladder somewhere in the garage or shed that we pull out a few times a year when we need it. But a small mistake on a ladder can lead to a big injury, or worse. Whether you're cleaning gutters, hanging holiday lights, or just getting something out of your attic, ladder safety matters more than we like to admit. Here’s a simple guide that covers the basics, some common mistakes, and the little things you can do to stay safe every time you're on a ladder.
Start With the Right Ladder
Not all ladders are the same. Step ladders are great for indoor jobs, but outdoor tasks often call for an extension ladder. You need to make sure that you're picking the right ladder for the job, which means paying attention to both the height and the weight rating. You want something stable and sturdy that won't wobble the moment you climb on. It’s easy to assume the old ladder collecting dust in your garage will do the trick, but taking a minute to actually make sure it's up for the job is the safe thing to do.
Set It Up on Solid Ground
A ladder is only as safe as the ground it's sitting on. As a rule of thumb, make sure the base is on flat, level ground before you climb. And don't set a ladder up on gravel, soft dirt, or slippery surfaces. If you have to set it up on grass, dig the feet in a little so they don’t slip. When using an extension ladder, keep it at a proper angle, which is about one foot away from the wall for every four feet of height. Wobbly setups are how accidents happen.
Check for Damage Before You Climb
It’s easy to miss signs of wear, but ladders age just like any other piece of equipment. Before each use, check for cracks, loose screws, bent rungs, or rusted hinges. Aluminum ladders can warp over time, and wooden ones can weaken if they’ve been stored somewhere damp, like a humid basement or garage. If it’s wobbly, creaky, or missing a foot pad, don’t risk it. A fall from three feet can still do real damage, and most accidents happen because people think, “It’ll be fine just this once.”
Keep Three Points of Contact
This one’s simple, but it makes a huge difference. Always keep two hands and one foot, or two feet and one hand, on the ladder. It keeps your center of gravity where it should be and gives you something to grab if you start to slip. And when climbing, try not to carry tools. Instead, use a belt or bucket with a rope to lift your gear up once you're at the top. It may take a bit longer, but the extra seconds are worth it to stay safe.
Don’t Reach Too Far
We’ve all done it: leaning just a little further to the left to grab that last branch or clear some cobwebs away. But reaching too far throws off your balance and can tip the ladder. A good rule of thumb is to keep your belly button between the rails. If you need to reach any further than that, you should climb down and move the ladder. It might feel like a hassle in the moment, but it’s better than having the ladder tip over and fall on you.
Be Cautious Around Power Lines
It might sound obvious, but it's easy to forget that you're working close to power lines when you’re focused on trimming trees or cleaning gutters. Metal ladders conduct electricity, and even getting close to a line can be dangerous. Keep at least 10 feet away from any overhead wires. If you’re unsure if you can leave enough space, stop and reassess. It’s always better to find a safer way or call an expert than to take a risk with your life. Electricity doesn’t give second chances.
Wear the Right Gear
Shoes with good grip make a big difference when you’re climbing a ladder. Avoid flip-flops, sandals, or anything with slippery soles. Sneakers or work boots are always the best options. It also helps to wear clothes that won’t snag on anything or get in your way while you're working. And if you're outside, make sure your gloves fit well so your hands won't slip on the rungs. I'm saying to be prepared, not overdressed. Just like you wouldn’t mow the lawn in dress shoes, don’t climb a ladder in the wrong gear.
Don’t Rush the Job
A lot of ladder accidents happen because someone was in a hurry. Trying to get the job done before the rain comes, or squeezing in one last task before dinner can lead to shortcuts or cutting corners when you otherwise wouldn't. Instead, take your time. Set the ladder up properly, climb slowly, and don’t rush through your work. Always give yourself enough time, and if it starts to get dark or you’re feeling tired, stop for the day and pick it up again tomorrow.
Know Your Ladder’s Limits
Every ladder has a different weight limit, and it’s not just about your body weight either. That limit includes whatever you’re carrying, like tools, paint cans, or even bags of leaves. Most ladders are labeled with a duty rating, ranging from light-duty (Type III) to heavy-duty (Type IAA). If you’re using a household ladder for a big project, double-check that it can actually handle the weight of the load. It’s easy to miss, but ignoring those numbers can stress the ladder or cause it to fail while you're working.
Store It Safely and Smartly
Where and how you store your ladder can make a big difference in how long it lasts. The best place to store it is somewhere off the ground, out of the weather, and away from moisture. A hook on your garage's wall or a sturdy rack works perfectly. Leaving it lying in the yard or leaning against a tree lets rust and rot creep in, especially if the ladder is made from aluminum or wood. No matter where you store it, you still need to check the hinges and locks every so often. A little care now can save you a lot of trouble (and money) later on.
Think Twice About Bad Weather
Using a ladder in the rain, wind, or even early morning dew, is a recipe for trouble. Wet rungs are slippery, and wind can shift the ladder just enough to knock you off balance. If the weather’s taking a turn for the worse, wait it out. And if you absolutely have to work in damp conditions, take extra steps to keep yourself safe. Wipe the ladder dry, wear good shoes, and go even slower than you usually would. Fall cleanup and holiday lights can wait a day. Getting hurt because you rushed the job just isn’t worth it.
Ask for Help When You Need It
Sometimes the safest thing you can do is ask someone to spot you. It’s a super smart way to keep yourself safe when working at heights. Whether it’s steadying the base, holding tools, or just being there in case something goes wrong, having another person around adds an extra layer of safety. But for bigger jobs, it might actually be worth hiring a pro instead. If you feel unsure or unsteady, trust your instincts. No home task is worth risking your health or your life.
Step Up With Confidence
Ladders are one of the most common tools that we use in home maintenance, and one of the most underestimated when it comes to risk. But with a little care, the right prep, and a healthy respect for gravity, it's easy to keep yourself safe when working on ladders. Take your time, pay attention, and trust your gut. At the end of the day, the goal is simple: get the job done and get back down in one piece. Stay safe and keep it simple.