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Ladder safety: Holiday decorations
Thousands of British Columbians are getting ready to decorate their homes for the holidays. But before climbing onto their ladders to string their holiday lights and decorations, homeowners should remember these simple safety tips:
Using ladders safely
- Ensure the ladder is in good condition and strong enough for the job.
- When using an extension ladder, place it into position first and then raise the extension.
- If the area is wet, nail a 2x4 or brace to keep the ladder in place.
- If electricity is a danger, use a fiberglass ladder.
- When placing a ladder in front of a door, be sure to lock the door or block it off.
- Never hang lights from the top two rungs or steps of a ladder.
- Keep body weight between the ladder supports.
- Wear slip-proof footwear.
- Keep belt buckles inside the side rails at all times.
- When climbing, face the ladder and use both hands to grip the side rails or rungs.
- Ensure three points of contact with the ladder at all times. That means both feet and one hand, or both hands and one foot, should always be in contact with the ladder.
Some key facts
- Nearly 700 British Columbians are hospitalized each year due to falls from ladders. (Source: preventable.ca)
- Serious injuries due to falls from ladders are most prevalent among British Columbians aged 45 to 60 years. (Source: preventable.ca)
- In the last decade, there have been more than 9,400 injuries due to ladder falls in B.C. More than half resulted in serious injuries, and 13 resulted in fatalities. (Source: WorkSafeBC)
Resources
For homeowners
- Bulletin: Ladder safety at home for the holidays
- Web site: Staying home for the holidays
For employers and workers:
- Video: You're a Pro: Falls from ladders
- Video: You're a Pro: Falls from ladders (Punjabi)
- Bulletins: StartSafe Safety Tips — Ladders
For more information on this or other topics, please contact:
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Megan Johnston |
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