Extension Ladder
Extension Ladder
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Using Extension Ladders – Five Steps to Safety
Using extension ladders can be a daunting task for somebody who has never used them before. Not only can extension ladders extend to a very high level. Accidents are not uncommon so apprehension is understandable.
Extension ladders, are so called because of the way they extend to several times their original height. They normally consist of two, or three different ladders that are attached together on a sliding mechanism. Once extended they lock together and allow climbing. But are they safe?
Extension ladders are perfectly safe, if used correctly, and there is no need to be apprehensive in using them – even for the first time as long as you follow the correct ‛steps'.
Step 1
Inspect the ladder and site. Ensure the ladder is not damaged in anyway, if it is – don't use it. If the ladder is sound, then inspect the area it will be erected. Ensure it is flat, level and not a loose surface.
Step 2
Extend the ladder against the wall. Ensure the angle is not too steep or not too shallow. The correct angle for an extension ladder is about 75 degrees above horizontal. This means that the base should be set out one quarter of the ladder's height to its top support point.
Step 3
Ensure the ladder is secure at the base. If necessary get somebody to foot the ladder. The purpose of footing a ladder – placing a foot on the bottom step and two hands on either side of the ladder to keep it stable – is not to stop it slipping (and the person footing it should not try) but to keep it stable, especially when climbing. Ladder stabilisers are available that help prevent rocking but a human being is better.
Keep three points of contact when climbin extension ladders
Step 4
When climbing the ladder keep three points of contact on the ladder at all times and don;t carry tools or other equipment in your hands. Keep limbs inside the ladder as you climb and climb gently; too aggressive and the ladder will start rocking.
Step 5
When working on a ladder never lean out. You should ensure there is several rungs above your feet and try to avoid removing both hands from the ladder. Secure tools too as if they fall they can hurt somebody below. When climbing down follow step 3. Never attempt to climb or descend a ladder facing outwards.
About the Author
Richard N Williams is interested in ladders, extension ladders and step ladders. Please visit us website if you are interested in extension ladders or other types of ladders
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What is the formula that determines the proper size ladder for a house?
The gutter is 23 feet from the ground. What size extension ladder is appropriate? What is the proper angle for the ladder to rest against the gutter?
I believe about 75 degrees is about the ideal ladder angle. Too much of an angle reduces the ladder's strength, and not enough angle could cause you to tip backwards. You should dig in the base a bit. Let's assume the ladder is dug in about an inch in height and 24 feet in height allows it to rest comfortably against the top with a bit of clearance. Trigonometry tells us the smallest ladder should be at least 24.083'/sin(75°) = 24.933' which is about 24'11". I say buy at least a 25' ladder, make it about 24'11" long, dig it in about an inch and place it about 6' (5+1/2)" horizontally away from your house. You will be incredibly safe with this particular configuration. Please don't sue me if you fall.
Extension Ladders Video
