Step Ladder Safety During the Holiday Season

Step ladders are used in businesses and homes every day to accomplish a variety of tasks. During the holiday season, many families use a step ladder at home to hang decorations, such as Christmas lights and displays. In order to make sure the holidays go off without a hitch, ladder safety is very important. Failing to implement safety measures, especially during the holiday season when there may be icy conditions, frozen ground, or sleet and snow, can result in serious and sometimes permanent injury.

When beginning a project that requires the use of ladders, selecting the best equipment for the job is the first task. Step ladders are most commonly used for household projects, and they come in a variety of sizes.

Step Ladder Choices

•      Fiberglass step ladders
•      Aluminum step ladders
•      Twin front ladders
•      Step ladder extensions (aluminum or fiberglass)

Depending upon the project, fiberglass and aluminum ladders offer different benefits. Fiberglass ladders are more expensive than aluminum ladders, but they are sturdier and hold up better in inclement weather. They also do not conduct electricity and can be more safely used around electrical sources such as power lines. For these reasons, fiberglass ladders are a great choice for long-term construction projects or for commercial purposes, or for projects that will be done in icy or rainy conditions.

Aluminum ladders are less expensive than fiberglass ladders, and they are lighter and easier to move during the course of your project. Although they are less resistant and more pliable than fiberglass ladders, aluminum ladders are a good option for a project that requires a lot of movement, such as hanging Christmas lights.

Both options have advantages, depending upon the project you are working on. For a short-term project, such as seasonal decorating, aluminum ladders may be your best option due to their mobility and less expensive price tag. However, if you plan on using your ladder year-round for a variety of projects, a fiberglass ladder is a good option.

Safety on Step Ladders

Ladder safety is always paramount, but during the holiday season, there are extra safety measures that are important to implement.

Step ladder safety during the holidays:

•      Winter weather brings snow and icy conditions in many parts of the country. Never place a ladder on top of ice, snow, or salted surfaces, as this may cause the ladder to move or slip while in use.
•      Many people enjoy a cocktail during the holiday season with family and friends. Never operate a ladder or any other construction equipment after consuming alcohol- save the celebratory eggnog for after your project is completed!
•      Distractions can be hazardous and deadly. While working on your step ladder, make sure to stay focused on the task at hand.
•      Checking out the Christmas lights once the sun goes down is a festive tradition for many, but make sure you complete your project during daylight hours so that you have optimum visibility.
•      When working with a lot of equipment, or bulky decorations such as strings of lights, a tool belt is useful in order to keep your hands free and maintain balance.

As always, safety during work is a priority. When using a ladder, especially during the winter season, following safe protocol and using the correct equipment is vital in order to avoid an injury that could spoil this festive time of year. At Industrial Ladder, we supply all of the equipment and safety tools for ladder usage necessary for any seasonal or year-round personal or commercial project. For information about or products or to order, call us at 1-800-833-0800.

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