People use extension ladders to access the roof of their home by adjusting the ladder to the required length. They are commonly used but are they safe to use? Of course, they are valuable assets when it comes to working at greater heights, but where's the guarantee that you may not fall back or slip to the side and end up hurting yourself in the process. There are several reported incidents of ladder deaths from greater heights in the US. Therefore, using extension ladders properly and getting ladder safety accessories for safety is recommended.

Six Tips to use an Extension ladder safely

Choosing the Right Ladder

The initial step is choosing the appropriate ladder depending on your needs. Some factors are your weight, height, the presence of nearby electrical wires, and room type. While considering your weight, you need to add the weight of tools or materials you will be carrying. Extension ladders come in various lengths and are composed of two sections, the base and the fly. Check the ladder safety product sticker before getting one.

Types of Extension Ladders

The extension ladders can be classified into five types as follows:

• Type IAA: Rugged extension ladders weighing 375 lbs for special duty.

• Type IA: Industrial extension ladders weighing 300 lbs for extra duty.

• Type I: Industrial extension ladders weighing 250 lbs for heavy-duty.

• Type II: Commercial extension ladders weighing 225 lbs for medium-duty.

• Type III: Household extension ladders weighing 200 lbs for light duty.

Inspecting the Ladder Before Use

It is advisable to properly inspect the ladder even for signs of any minor damage or manufacturing defects before buying it. If it's a ladder you have already bought and haven’t used for a long time, check for issues that may cause due to weather conditions, dents in the rungs and other locking mechanisms that may affect your safety.

Setting up the Ladder

Follow these simple steps to set up your ladder before use properly:

• Move the ladder to the right place and position its base one foot away from and parallel to the wall or object you’re climbing.

• Placing the ladder's base 1/4 to the height of the building is the proper climbing angle.

• Raise the fly section and lock the fly in place with the rung locks so that the ladder does not close when you climb.

• Start by climbing one rung at a time and maintain a stronghold with both hands as you move your feet up each rung. If you need to carry tools, place them in a belt and fit them around your waist. 

• Always have someone else present who can assist while working with an extension ladder.

• Ensure that the locking mechanism is perfectly in place if you need to descend quickly.

Considering the Extension Ladder Chart:

The following extension ladder chart will be useful to calculate the required height, the maximum reach of an extension ladder, and the distance of base placement from the wall.

• For an extension ladder of 16 feet in height, the maximum reach is 15 feet, and the distance of base placement from the wall is 4 feet.

• For an extension ladder of 20 feet in height, the maximum reach is 19 feet, and the distance of base placement from the wall is 5 feet.

• For an extension ladder of 28 feet in height, the maximum reach is 27 feet, and the distance of base placement from the wall is 7 feet.

• For an extension ladder of 32 feet in height, the maximum reach is 31 feet, and the distance of base placement from the wall is 8 feet.

• For an extension ladder of 36 feet in height, the maximum reach is 34 feet, and the distance of base placement from the wall is 9 feet.

• For an extension ladder of 40 feet in height, the maximum reach is 37 feet, and the distance of base placement from the wall is 10 feet.

Some Additional Tips to Keep in Mind While Extension Ladders:

• Avoid using ladders near power lines.

• Avoid using ladders before getting them inspected by a trained person.

• Avoid overextending the ladder and always maintain minimum overlap of sections.

• Avoid setting up or taking down a ladder when it is extended.

Conclusion

Extension ladders can cause serious injuries as a result of misuse. This is generally because ladders have only two points of contact with the ground and can be unstable without proper support. Using ladder safety products such as stabilisers help to level them properly over uneven ground. Ladder safety accessories such as ladder jacks, levellers, paint can hooks, and surface protectors help prevent you from falling back or slipping to the sides. You can follow the above tips for roof ladder safety and safe usage of the extension ladders, such as inspection before use, proper ladder setup, and how to work safely while on the ladder.