QA

Quick Answer: How To Set Up Extension Ladder

How do you install an extension ladder by yourself?

What is the 4 to 1 rule when using a ladder?

The base of the ladder should be placed so that it is one foot away from the building for every four feet of hight to where the ladder rests against the building. This is known as the 4 to 1 rule.

What is the ratio for setting up an extension ladder?

Extension ladders must be placed at the proper angle. Use a 4:1 ratio for setting ladders (approximately 75 degrees) – for every four feet in height, the base of the ladder should be moved one foot out from the wall or structure.

How many feet is too long for extension ladder?

Extension ladders range in length from 16 feet up to and exceeding 40 feet. All non-self supported ladders should extend a minimum distance of 3 feet past the edge they rest against but not more than 4 feet. As with any ladder, extension ladders should be at the proper height and angle for optimum safety and stability.

What is the most common cause of ladder accidents?

Human error is by far the leading cause of ladder accidents. Never use a ladder in any other way than what the manufacturer intended it to be used for.

What angle should my ladder be?

The correct angle for a ladder is 75 degrees or the 1 in 4 rule.

How tall of a ladder do I need to reach 20 feet?

Size Max. Height You Want to Reach Buy This Size Ladder (assumes vertical 12-inch reach) 14 feet 10-foot 16 feet 12-foot 18 feet 14-foot 20 feet 16-foot.

Can I lean ladder against gutter?

SHORT ANSWER: No, it’s not safe to lean a ladder against a gutter. Make sure you lean your ladder against a strong resting point that’s sturdy enough to support it.

How long is a 28 foot extension ladder not extended?

Extension Ladder Chart Extension Ladder Height Maximum Reach of Extension Ladder Distance of Base Placement from Wall 20 foot 19 feet 5 feet 24 foot 23 feet 6 feet 28 foot 27 feet 7 feet 32 foot 31 feet 8 feet.

What is an example of 3 points of contact on a ladder?

To use ladders safely, always maintain three points of contact. That means two hands and one foot or two feet and one hand on the ladder at all times.

What should you do when securing the base of a ladder?

Secure both the base and top of a ladder to prevent movement. Securing a ladder at the foot does not prevent a side slip at the top. Brace or tie off the ladder near the base. If there is no structure to tie off, use a stake in the ground.

How far should a ladder be from the wall?

Set the ladder at the proper angle. When a ladder is leaned against a wall, the bottom of the ladder should be one-quarter of the ladder’s working length away from the wall. For access to an elevated work surface, extend the top of the ladder three feet above that surface or secure the ladder at its top.

What size ladder do I need for a 2 story house?

On most two-story homes, this can only be done with a 28′ extension ladder. (This 3′ extension rule also holds true indoors and for shorter heights like one-story dwellings; you’ll just need a shorter ladder.).

Do you always climb up or down a ladder?

When climbing up or down, always: Face the stepladder. Keep your body centered between side rails. Maintain three-point contact by keeping two hands and one foot, or two feet and one hand on a ladder always.

What is the belt buckle rule?

Prevent falls from ladders: Keep your body (belt buckle) between the side rails of the ladder. Avoid over reaching to the sides.

How do you stabilize a ladder on a soft ground?

Dig a trench under the high-side foot when your ladder is on uneven ground. Flip the shoes up when you’re setting up the ladder on soft ground. The spurs will dig in and prevent the ladder from slipping.

How do you position a ladder on a slope?

Extend the ladder and lean it up against the building/wall. Set up the ladder at the correct angle which should be 1 metre out for every 4 metres up or 75°. The rungs should always look horizontal and an appropriate levelling device should be used such as a Big Grip Ladder Stabiliser or the LSD Ladder Leveller.

How do you set a ladder on a slope?

So, if the only way possible to set up your stepladder on an sloping surface is to face the back going downhill, climb the ladder with your back to it, instead of facing it. At least you can jump off if it starts to tip. Extension ladders are easier to “chock up” if the surface is sloped.

At what age should you stop climbing ladders?

Once a person reaches age 65 their body has less muscle strength and flexibility, which makes it harder to stay on something like a ladder. Most elderly people also have poor balance and coordination because of these age-related factors: Recent illness or surgery. Poor vision.

When should you not use a ladder?

Do not use a ladder that has cracks, lose or corroded rivets, defective braces, or parts (including the slip resistant feet) that are in poor condition. Make sure it is free of grease or oil or other slippery substances. Open the stepladder spreaders and shelf fully and lock the braces. Check stability.

How do you stop a ladder falling?

Use Your Ladder Safely Maintaining three points of contact with the ladder at all times. Never standing on either of the top two rungs of a stepladder. Never stepping on any of the top four rungs of an extension ladder. Having a partner hold and steady a ladder as you use the ladder to climb up and down.

What is the maximum angle for an extension ladder?

Extension Ladders should be erected as close to a pitch of 75 1/2 degrees from the horizontal as possible for optimum resistance against the bottom of the ladder sliding out, strength of the ladder, and balance of the climber.