Whether it’s washing the windows, cleaning the gutters or painting, one of the first tools you need is a ladder. For general use around the home a ladder should last a lifetime, so you need to choose one that is going to suit your present and future needs.
Hopefully the following information will help you to decide. Also included are safety tips on how to correctly use your new ladder.
According to Australian Standards ladder manufacturers must specify whether a ladder is domestic or industrial rated.
A domestic ladder is defined as "a ladder designed to be used by a householder for construction, maintenance and repairs carried out at a private dwelling for non-commercial purposes".
An industrial ladder is "any ladder other than a domestic ladder". They are generally for commercial and trade use where strength, durability and reliability are needed.
There are three main types of ladders – extension, step and multipurpose. For indoor use, stepladders or multipurpose ladders are usually recommended. For outdoor work, taller stepladders, multipurpose or extension ladders are more appropriate.
They come in many different sizes and styles, and may be made of timber, aluminium or fibreglass.
Aluminium ladders are lighter than fibreglass ladders which make them perfect for general use around the home.
Fibreglass ladders are recommended for use in an electrical environment as they provide some isolation between the user and earth, reducing (but not eliminating) the risk of electrocution.
What Ladder Height Do I Select?
Step Ladder
When choosing the size ladder you need, the rule of thumb is to select one that is about 0.6m shorter than the height you wish to reach. For example:
| Reach Height | Ladder Height |
| 1.8m | 1.2m Ladder |
| 2.4m | 1.8m Ladder |
| 3.0m | 2.4m Ladder |
Extension Ladder
With an extension ladder you need to select one that is 1.0m longer than the height you wish to reach. For example:
| Reach Height | Ladder Height |
| 2.4m | 3.4m min. |
| 3.7m | 4.7m min. |
| 5.0m | 6.0m min. |
Note: Be sure to choose a ladder that complies with the appropriate Australian Standards as they are tested to meet stringent strength and durability criteria.
Safety and Common Sense Tips
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Regularly check for any loose screws, hinges or rungs; clean off any mud or other liquids that might have accumulated on the ladder. Cracked, broken or damaged ladders should never be used.
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The ladder should always be placed on a firm, level surface. Avoid any soft, muddy spots and never place a ladder on ground that is uneven (including flooring). Always engage the ladder locks or braces before you climb.
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Set extension ladders at a slope of about 4:1 (for every metre in height, the ladder should extend out from the base by about 250mm). Non self supporting ladders should be no more than 1.5m out from the base of the wall.
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Never use a step ladder’s top shelf as a seat; it was not designed to carry your weight.
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Leaning too far to one side when you’re on the ladder could make you lose your balance and fall. It is always safer to reposition the ladder than risk falling.
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If you do not feel comfortable, get someone to hold the ladder while you climb. Always maintain three points of contact when using a ladder i.e. have two feet and one hand, or two hands and one foot on the ladder.
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Only one person should be on the ladder at a time, unless in the case of emergency.
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Follow the manufacturer’s instructions and do not exceed the load limit specified for your ladder.
Climbing and Working On the Ladder
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Always maintain three points of contact when using a ladder i.e. have two feet and one hand, or two hands and one foot on the ladder.
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Always face the ladder when climbing up or down and when working.
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Do not overreach while working from a ladder. Your body should be centred between the two stiles of the ladder. Do not stand higher than the tread or rung indicated on the ladder as the highest standing level.
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The top of the ladder should be firmly against a solid surface. Do not place the top of your non self supporting ladder against a window or brittle surface.
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Avoid climbing up and down a ladder while carrying anything in your hands. Don’t handle equipment that will restrict your movement or cause you to lose balance. Carry tools in a tool bag, rather than in your hands.
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Keep your shoes free of grease or other slippery materials while using ladders.
