Weight Increasing? Climb it Safe!

Chicago – Americans are bigger than ever. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that 65 percent of adults are either overweight or obese in the United States.

As we collectively continue to tip the scales, we need to be mindful not to tip our ladders, as well. Ladders are useful tools, but should be used properly and carefully in order to prevent serious injury.

As the total load increases, you must adjust the type of ladder used.

“What consumers need to remember is that the total load on the ladder is not only their own weight, but also the weight of the tools and materials they will be handling while on the ladder,” says Donald L. Gibson, vice president of engineering for Louisville Ladder Group located in Louisville, KY.

The maximum load a ladder can safely handle is called its duty rating. This rating should be obviously posted on the ladder’s safety label. If the label can not clearly be read, or if it has been torn or lost, do not use the ladder. This may be a sign the ladder is too old to be used safely.

Type III, II, I, 1A and 1AA ladders offer load capacities of 200, 225, 250, 300 and 375 pounds, respectively.

To determine the proper ladder size, measure the total height you would like to reach and subtract the climber’s height. This is the highest standing level of the ladder that you should select.

“The biggest consumer abuse of ladders occurs when you over-reach,” says Gibson. “Homeowners need to get down from the ladder and reposition it to reach new areas and purchase ladders that are the proper height or length for the job.”

Here are additional ladder safety tips to keep you injury-free.

• Always inspect the ladder. Check the ladder for any loose hinges or rungs, clean off any mud that might have accumulated on the ladder, avoid using ladders with structural defects and use the ladder only for the purpose for which it was designed (refer to manufacturer's labeling and recommendations).

• Properly stabilize the ladder. Every ladder should be placed on a firm, level surface. Never place a ladder on ground that is uneven. Always engage the ladder locks or braces before climbing the ladder.

• Face the ladder when climbing up or down. Your body should be centered between the side rails. Maintain a firm grip and use both hands when climbing. Do not climb onto the ladder from the side.

• Keep your ladder within reach of the job at hand. Position the ladder closest to your job and step off the ladder to reposition to your job. Don’t compromise your balance by extending your reach beyond the ladder.

• Transport the ladder properly. Carry ladders parallel to the ground and tie ladders down securely when transporting.

The American Ladder Institute was founded in 1947 and represents North American ladder manufacturers and is committed to the highest standards of ladder safety. ALI's mission is to educate the public as to the selection, care, and safe use of ladders and develop and disseminate the appropriate standards for design, construction, testing, care and use of ladders. For more information, please contact ALI at 312-644-6610 or online at www.americanladderinstitute.org.

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