As the weather warms up and you start to conduct your annual spring building maintenance, focusing your attention on ladder safety is important. Reaching high places to clear eavestroughs, paint, clean windows – and many more tasks – require you to get on a ladder and your team’s safety is paramount.

At this time of year, it’s a good idea to review general tips for the safe use and proper care of your ladder.

Safe use

As you pull that ladder out for the first time this spring, check for any winter damage or corrosion that might make it unsafe to use. Make sure there is no corrosion on the rungs, and check for loose rivets or any defective parts.

Here are a few more general tips for reaching those high places and staying safe:

• Check the load rating to ensure you will not exceed that, even with the added weight of the tools you will be using.
• Do not prop the ladder up against a wall, extend it to its height. Lock it into place for safety and stability.
• Extend the ladder to about three feet below where you need to work to give you enough room to work comfortably.
• Do not overreach. Keep the ladder stable and climb down to move it to a new location, rather than shifting its position while in use.
• Face the ladder when climbing up and down, using both hands to hold on for balance.

Safe care

Keeping your step ladder in good shape will increase safety and ensure that you will be able to use it when you need it for your next job. There are a few things you can do to lengthen its lifespan and keep it in good working order.

• When moving it to another location, dragging your ladder can weaken it or make it unstable over time, so pick it up and carry it to avoid causing damage.
• Store it in a location that is protected from the elements to avoid it breaking down and weathering.
• Before you store it away for the season, look for signs of  weakening, including exposed fibreglass, cracks deformed or dented rails, and worn tread. If any of this damage exists, it’s time for a replacement.

Safety is important and as the weather gets warmer and you may need your ladder more, be sure to care for it and use it properly to prioritize safety for your team.