Living items · 생활 안전

Using a household stepladder safely in six steps

A household stepladder carries fall risks even for routine shelf work. Check suitability, level ground, locks and foot placement.

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Wikimedia Commons · Amin / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0) · CC BY-SA 4.0 ↗

CDC/NIOSH warns that ladder falls happen at home as well as at work. First consider whether the task can be done from the floor. Never stand above the highest level marked by the manufacturer, and leave electrical or high-level work to qualified professionals.

Your try-it-at-home checklist

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1. Before reaching high shelves, consider whether a safer tool or rearrangement could let you work from the ground.
2. Select a stepladder with sufficient height and duty rating. Inspect rails, steps, hinges, screws and feet for damage or slippery material.
3. Set it on firm, level, nonslip flooring. Open and lock all spreaders; never stand it on a box to gain height.
4. Face the ladder and maintain three points of contact when climbing or descending. Keep your hands free and ask someone to pass items once you are stable.
5. Keep your body centered instead of overreaching. Never stand above the highest standing level permitted on the label or on an unsuitable top cap.
6. Descend before repositioning a ladder. Avoid working near energized wires or attempting high-risk ceiling tasks yourself; use a professional.

Your try-it-at-home checklist

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