Backyard Blitz builder, Scott Cam, looked at ladders and how to use them safely.

Types of ladders

There are three main types of ladders - extension, step and multipurpose. For indoor use, stepladders or multipurpose ladders are usually recommended. For outdoor work, taller stepladders, multipurpose or extension ladders are more appropriate. They come in many different sizes and styles, and may be made of timber, aluminium or fibreglass. One of the main things to remember when choosing a ladder is to buy one of the right size or length to safely reach the required height.

Safe ladder use

Studies show that ladders are the products most often associated with DIY injury for deaths and hospital admissions. A high percentage of ladder-related hospital admissions are for fractured ribs, wrists and ankles. However, most ladder injuries can be prevented by following these simple guidelines: Make sure you place your ladder on a stable base. Don't climb higher than the third rung from the top of the ladder. Wherever possible, keep two hands and two feet on the rungs of the ladder. (Tip: carry tools in a tool bag, rather than in your hands.) If climbing onto the roof, ensure that at least three rungs of the ladder extend beyond the roof's edge. Set extension ladders at a slope of about 4:1 (for every metre in height, the ladder should extend out from the base by about 250mm). Make sure that stepladders are fully open and locked in position. Wear fully enclosed, non-slip footwear when using ladders. Do not use a ladder if you are in poor health, particularly if you have a heart condition or are prone to dizzy spells. Follow the manufacturer's instructions and do not exceed the load limit specified for your ladder.

Don's tip

Where possible use an extendable pruner such as the one seen in our segment. That way you don't have to climb up on a ladder at all. It is very dangerous to try and balance a ladder against a tree trunk. It is safer to place the ladder against very sturdy side branches and tie it off securely.

Further information

Extension ladders cost from $300 - $600
Stepladders cost from $80 - $400
Dual-purpose ladders cost from $199 - $300
Extendable, heavy-duty pole pruners cost from $38 - $170

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