DIY Ladder Tips for Winter Jobs

DIY Ladder Tips for Winter Jobs Ladders need to be used for all types of essential outdoor tasks during the winter, from unblocking gutterings to putting up Christmas decorations. However, using ladders during cold, wintry weather is far more challenging than in the summer. Working at height always requires the highest concentration, but distractions such as freezing temperatures, wind and snow can make ladder use particularly hazardous. THE IMPORTANCE OF LADDER SAFETY IN WINTER Whatever the season, there could be as many as two million ladders in use throughout the United Kingdom every single day. They contribute to approximately 40% of the 48,000 accidents involving height that occur annually. However, injuries sustained from ladder falls are proportionally higher during winter, sometimes resulting in fatalities. It's always preferable to delay using ladders during hazardous wintry weather, but if there is no alternative, the risks can be minimised by being extra vigilant. USING THE CORRECT LADDER An aluminium ladder is not always the best choice for the winter months. Although the metal reacts well to varying temperatures, in extremely cold weather, your hands can stick to the rails or rungs. This in turn can affect your balance when climbing or descending. Fibreglass has a high resistance to all types of weather conditions, making it an ideal choice in the winter. Wooden ladders can be affected when exposed to rain and snow. The wood absorbs moisture causing it to expand, which may affect its balance and safety. When completing DIY tasks in the cold, a platform or swingback ladder could be the most suitable choice. Their self-supporting A-frames are often considered more stable than an extension ladder that needs to be leaned against a solid structure. As at any time of the year, select a ladder that is the right height for your task. An extension ladder should be around three feet taller than the level you want to work at. A platform ladder needs to factor in your height and reach when standing on the top step. LIMITING ELECTRICAL DANGERS Carrying out electrical work while using a ladder can be dangerous, particularly in the winter when there is rain or snow around. Although an aluminium ladder is a lightweight, economical choice, the metal is an effective conductor of electricity. The best choice of ladder for working near electrical cables is fibreglass or wood. UNDERSTANDING THE ‘3-POINT RULE’ The 3-Point rule evolved as a safety measure when using ladders. It means you should always have three limbs touching the ladder. It's important to climb slowly in order to alternately keep two hands and a foot on the ladder before completing the next stage of using one hand and two feet. Placing your hands on the rungs instead of the rails should provide a more reliable grip if you should slip. In addition, keep your body centrally aligned when using the ladder to maintain good balance. Avoid reaching too far to the side as the sudden readjustment of your weight can tip the ladder over. WINTER WEATHER CONDITIONS TO BE AWARE OF Using a ladder during winter weather means being more aware of the state of the terrain where it's to be placed. Before embarking on a particularly lengthy task, it can also be helpful to check the weather forecast for sudden changes such as snow storms or high winds. If the weather should suddenly deteriorate, it's wiser to leave your project or repair until another time. ICY CONDITIONS Ladders should never be placed on sheets of ice, frosty leaves or compacted snow. These are hazards that inevitably cause a ladder to slip. Black ice is especially dangerous as it's so difficult to see unless the area is inspected thoroughly. There can also be patches of waterlogged ground if ice or snow is beginning to thaw. Ladders can unexpectedly sink into soft ground causing them to topple over. During frosty weather it can be helpful to use a ladder safety mat made of rubber. An alternative is to spread a layer of grit or salt on the floor to prevent the ladder's feet slipping. WINDY WEATHER It's advisable to avoid using a ladder if the wind speed reaches more than 20 mph. Sudden gusts of wind are often the most dangerous as the impact can knock you off balance or tip the ladder over. Generally, the higher you climb a ladder, the stronger the wind becomes. A steady wind travelling at a lower speed can be affected by nearby buildings or steep ground. They often create a wind tunnel effect causing the strength of the wind to increase in a localised area. Never use a ladder if you have any doubts over unpredictable winds. BEST WINTER CLOTHING FOR USING LADDERS When using a ladder in winter, you need to insulate against the cold by wearing plenty of layers. A lightweight beanie under a hard safety hat can help retain the body's warmth. The correct winter footwear is vital for keeping a firm grip on the rungs. Choose work boots with heavy-duty, thick rubber soles that have anti-slip properties. When hands become cold, it can be difficult maintaining a steady grip on the ladder. A remedy can be found in specialised thermal work gloves with industrial strength rubber exteriors. SAFETY ROUTINE FOR USING LADDERS IN WINTER Check the ladder before use for signs of frozen moisture that has collected while it has been stored. Wipe the ladder to remove any traces of ice, dirt or oil. Any residue or contaminants can make the rungs slippery. Using the ladder when it's raining or snowing can make the ladder unsafe. Always climb slowly and be aware of maintaining a firm grip on the ladder. Snow and mud can become embedded in the soles of your boots when walking to and from the ladder. Check footwear before stepping on the rungs and remove any stubborn debris. When you have finished with the ladder, it should be wiped thoroughly to remove all traces of snow, mud and moisture. Dry thoroughly with a cloth before returning to storage. When carrying out DIY tasks during the winter that involve using a ladder, it's important to stay safe. Keep ladders in a clean condition, wear appropriate footwear and follow the 3-point rule. Check the weather forecast and always abandon a task rather than risk the effects of severe winds, snow and ice.

For more information on DIY Ladder Tips for Winter Jobs talk to Ramsay Ladders