This photo of our guys framing a second story room addition won a contest Bosch Tools was putting on, with a jobsite radio as the prize. When I saw the contest posted on an industry national newsletter, I knew it was meant to be because the guys needed a new radio for sure! See the picture below to see what I mean. See more pictures below to get a real sense of how high up they are working. We exercise an incredible amount of safety procedures to ensure everyone on our job sites are safe, so these Daredevils can get the job done, as they always do.
Ladder Safety – Leave it to the Professionals
I’ve been climbing ladders all my life. I work with a lot of people who do the same. The vast majority of the time, it works out. But unfortunately, I get to see the worst when ladder climbing goes bad. The main cause of ladder accidents is over confidence and poor planning. Here is a list of things to consider if you use a ladder:
Select the right ladder for the job: It should extend 3’ past the work surface. This keeps you from toppling over. It’s simple physic— keep your body weight within the confines of the ladder structure and you won’t cause a top heavy shift in momentum that splats you on the ground.
Place the ladder on level and firm ground and be sure the feet can’t slip: If it’s wiggly, you will fall sideways and are in danger of breaking your neck, shoulder or some other important part of your structure.
Make sure the ladder can support you, and whatever it is you are hauling up or down it: I’ve seen the result when people step on a wooden ladder step and it breaks. It’s a great way to break a hip.
Be aware of power lines: Many ladders, and you, conduct electricity. I’ve had the unfortunate experience of seeing the aftermath of an aluminum ladder hitting a power line with a person on it.
KNOW YOUR LIMITATIONS: Most ladder accidents I see are from someone who climbs a ladder thinking as if they were 20 years younger. Getting old is no fun—don’t make it worse by overestimating your abilities.
When you are finished with the ladder, put it away: An unattended ladder can be a dangerous playground.
Most projects that involve a ladder should be left to professionals. Call us to see if we can help with your home improvement and home maintenance projects.
Be safe,
Mike
