Whether you own a ladder or get one from a tool rental supplier, learn the safety basics of using it. Falls are one of the top three causes of injury in the United States. Don’t be a statistic; follow the points below to stay safe when using a ladder.

Tips for Ladder Safety

1. Climb Carefully

Wear shoes with slip-resistant soles. Don’t climb barefoot, in flip-flops, or leather-soled shoes. Don’t carry things in your hands as you climb; use a tool belt or have someone hand up supplies. Keep three points of contact at all times: two hands and one foot or two feet and one hand. Make sure the ladder is fully opened and secure and that steps are clean and free of grease, paint, or clutter. Don’t overreach or move the ladder while you are on it. Don’t stand on the top or the paint tray, if the tool rental company provides one. If you feel dizzy, unwell, or otherwise impaired, wait until you feel better to use the ladder.

2. Place It Properly

Before mounting the ladder, make sure it’s resting in a stable location that is free of clutter. The feet of the ladder should be touching even ground, and the ladder itself shouldn’t wobble. Don’t lean a ladder against an unstable surface, such as a window. Extension ladders should be secured at the top and should extend 3 feet beyond the surface you’re trying to reach. If you must work in front of a door, secure the door and offer visible signage that the ladder is there.

3. Choose an Appropriate Ladder

The ladder you use needs to reach the work area. Don’t stand on the clearly marked top area or place the ladder on a box or other surface to make it taller. If you’re renting a ladder, explain the project to the tool rental company so that they can help you make the right selection.

Ladder safety helps prevent unnecessary falls. Central Tool Rental in Cincinnati, OH, is a full-service tool rental facility serving construction professionals and DIY-ers since 1977. They rent and deliver equipment, tools, and parts and offer propane refills and factory-certified Stihl® tool repair. Call (513) 733-2020 to reserve equipment or visit the website to learn more about products.