Ladder Safety

When an MDF crew power washes or paints your home, they often rely on ladders to get to those tough spots. We know they're experts on setting up a ladder in the safest way, and these tips will make sure you know how to too! For any DIY projects or for any craftsmen who work on your home, make sure this is followed:

•  The first step is examining your ladder. Look at it from every angle before use to see if there are any sharp or raised edges. A raised edge is called a burr. It is a leftover piece from the manufacturing process that can be shaved down. Make sure the ladder has safety feet to grip the shoes and prevent falls. If the ladder has any damage or cracks, it's better to throw it away than risk injury. The spreader and bracers will keep your ladder upright in the position you need. If there is any problem with these, don't use it. Any loose bolts should be tightened, and any slippery surfaces should be wiped down before use.
•  After checking to make sure all the parts in your ladder are in working order, the placement is key. Always use a 4:1 ratio when setting up a ladder. For every 4 feet in height, the ladder should be 1 foot away from what it leans against. Divide the height by 4 for a base distance. A ladder cannot replace a scaffold, and should not be used horizontally as such.
•  Unless the door is locked, guarded, or blocked off from use, do not prop a ladder against a door.
•  Make sure the ground you're placing the ladder on is solid. The feet on all sides need to be secured to prevent any sinking or swaying. Never set up a ladder underneath or against anything unsafe or unsteady like boxes, barrels, etc.