A ladder is a handy and invaluable tool if you use with due care and follow safety guidelines. However, if you do not use caution, a ladder can cause serious accidents. Therefore, it is advisable to adhere to ladder safety guidelines and instructions.

First of all, you should select the right type of ladder according to your needs and take precautions to avoid electrical shock. Moreover, take notice of the Ladder’s rating and the combined weight of the person who will be using the ladder. Do not forget to check the weight of material being carried on the ladder! Go for a ladder that has a good capacity. Height of the ladder is also extremely important to ensure it is suitable for use. Purchase ladder safety devices also, if possible to assist in minimizing ladder accidents.

Be aware of electrical devices and wiring. Electricity can pass through a metal ladder and result in electrocution. You can minimize these risks by using high-grade ladder accessories and ladder safety devices to ensure the ladder stays where it meant to.

Inspect the ladder closely prior to use to ensure it is in good condition before climbing it. Make sure there are no broken or damaged components. This includes checking all joints, rivets, bolts, nuts and make sure they are tight. Steps, feet and rungs should also be secure. Rung locks, pulleys and ropes should be properly checked.

Do not use the ladder in bad weather, such as during a storm or high winds. Keep all safety measures in mind when you are on the ladder and make sure your body weight is between the rails. Also make sure there is someone nearby to assist if things go wrong.

Select a safe and dry place to store the ladder such as internal wall storage racks. While in transit, secure and support the ladder. Keep your ladder clean and free from foreign materials and do not store materials on your ladder.

If you are going to use a stepladder, make certain it is fully open, pail shelf is in right position and spreaders are secure. Place the ladder with secure footing and never use it on slippery floor or surfaces. In addition, never place your ladder on unstable bases, boxes, or scaffolds so as to acquire more height. Also, do not adjust the ladder in front of a door that opens towards the ladder.

Always face the ladder while climbing up or down and sustain a strong grip using both hands. Additional stability can be obtained by using ladder accessories and ladder safety devices. This is particularly important when securing your ladder against sideways movement when getting on and off the ladder at height. Never overreach your ladder and do not stand on the top of your ladder. Overloading a ladder is never recommended. Finally, do not push or pull off to the side of your ladder.

Keep the above safety pointers in mind next time you use a ladder and always utilize premium ladder accessories and ladder safety devices to reduce safety risks associated with ladder use.