The 10 Commandments of Ladder Safety

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[ 1.] Thou shalt inspect the ladder before use.:

If you are going to use a ladder, check the ladder if it is damaged. A damaged ladder is real potential injury waiting to happen, so say no to bad ladders, always watch for cracks and breaks in the ladder's rungs or frame. In my illustration above, I am using a local made wooden ladder, but if you are using a metal ladder, look for any missing or loose rivets, bolts or nuts. Any ladder that had a missing rung is an entrapment.

[2.] Thou shalt choose the right ladder for the task.:
There are diffrent ladders for diffrent tasks, select a ladder that fits the task and can support your weight and that of anything you will be carrying. Look for a ladder with the right length. Don't pick one that is either too short or too long for a task. Too short could make you fail the 8th commandment, and too long may conflict with number 3.

[3.] Thou shalt set up the ladder on firm ground and angle.:
Place the ladder on firm ground. The floor should be level ground to support the foot of the ladder. If the ground is not levelled, there is a risk of falling sideways, and if the leaning angle is not observed correctly, you and the ladder may fall backwards or downward.

[4.] Thou shalt maintain three points of contact.:
When you are climbing up or down a ladder, avoid any fancy stunts. Always hold the ladder with both hands. When one leg is moving and stand with both feet when one hand is moving, and consider a tool belt. Avoid playing gymnastics on a ladder.

the foot of this ladder is too close to the wall

[5.] Thou shalt face the ladder when climbing.:
Why would you ever consider climbing a ladder backwards? That is rough play. Face the ladder when climbing up or down, This makes you more balanced on the ladder and also makes it easy to obey the 4th Commandment.

[6.] Thou shalt not share thy ladder with another.:
If two people must be up at the same time, getting another ladder for the other person. A scaffold is preferable.

[7.] Thou shalt not overreach:
When you are on a ladder, keep your body centred between the rails, do not overstretch beyond your safe centre of gravity. the foot of this ladder is too far from the wall.

[8.] Thou shalt not stand on the top rung.:
Don't stand on the top rung or cap of the ladder except it's an A-frame ladder with such provisions.

[9.] Thou shalt keep the ladder stable at all time..
It is good for someone to hold stady the ladder for you when you climb up. The ladder should be stable with both bases on the ground. It should lean on a wall that is sure.

[10.] Thou shalt be mindful of thy surroundings.:
I would be uncomfortable if people are working or passing under my ladder while i am on it. not for superstitious reasons but for safety reasons.

Your safety should be the top priority!

The foot of this ladder is at a safe distance from the wall