Minimize Risk of Falls from Ladders

Warning - Falls from ladders can cause serious injury or fatalities.  Follow these safety tips to minimize the associated risks.

1.  Ladders come in many different designs.  Always read labels and markings on the ladder.
2.  Avoid electrocution.  Be mindful of what is overhead.  Never use metal ladders when power lines are overhead or near energized equipment for that matter.
3.  Inspect the ladder before you climb on it.  If it is damaged, then mark it clearly with a tag and fix it right away or dispose of it.  Do not leave it around trying to make up your mind whether to keep it.
4.  Three point contact with the ladder is a must.  That means always have two hands and one foot on the ladder or two feet and one hand on the ladder.
5.  Only use the ladder and any accessories for their intended purpose.
6.  Make sure there is nothing slippery on the ladder steps or rungs.
7.  Do not use a step ladder in the closed position.
8.  Never use the top step of the ladder.
9.  Only climb a ladder on a flat surface unless it is secured in a safe manner.
10.  Do not put a ladder up on anything to get more height, like a barrel or box or anything shaky.
11.  Do not attempt to move a ladder if equipment or a person is on the ladder.
12.  A straight ladder or extension ladder must extend three feet over the point where the ladder is leaning.  Do not climb on the top three steps of this type of ladder.
13.  The proper angle for placing a ladder is achieved by putting the foot of the ladder a distance away from the vertical line bisecting the resting point of the ladder equal to 25% of the height of the resting point of the ladder.
14.  Take the precaution of securing any ladder used in a place where it can be hit or bumped by other workers.  Barricades may also be used to keep people away.
15.  Check that extension ladder locks are correctly working and latched before climbing.
16.  Do not overload the ladder.  All ladders are rated.  That rating includes equipment.

Do not be careless!  Your family depends on you to stay alive and healthy.  You are responsible to care for them, which means taking care and protecting yourself.  Never take a chance on getting hurt. 

The best way to avoid a fall is to stay off of ladders.  Instead call Ace Discount Glass and Doors for insulated window, door glass, french door glass, atrium door, and patio door repair or replacement.  Ace also can install framed showers or frameless showers, mirrors, lead glass, or commercial store fronts and board ups.  We are open 24 hours for emergency service, and for your convenience we are open Saturdays and Sundays.