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Inspect ladders before use. Make sure that
the rungs are intact and free of dirt and paint buildup that could
interfere with footing.
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When extending or retracting an extension
ladder, hold the pulley rope firmly; if the rope is released, the upper
section could drop on your fingers, arms or feet.
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Follow the "four contact" rule: When using
an extension ladder, make sure that the tops of both rails make solid
contact with walls, and that both legs make solid contact with the floor
or ground.
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Never stand higher than the third-highest
rung on a ladder. Make sure that the ladder reaches at least three feet
higher than the highest level you need to stand.
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Place foam protectors or wads of cloth on
the tops of extension ladders, to prevent them from sliding and to
protect the walls.
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On a stepladder, make sure the spreader bar
is fully extended and locked in place.
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With a straight or extension ladder, make
sure that the base is one foot away from the wall for every three feet
of height.
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Make sure your pockets are empty of knives,
scissors or other pointed tools before climbing any ladder.
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When on the ladder, keep your hips between
the rails for good balance.
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Do not push or pull too hard on a scraper
or other tool while balanced on the ladder.
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Always wear rubber-soled or another type of
non-slip shoe on a ladder
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Special Guidelines for
Outdoor Ladder Use:
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Avoid working in wet or windy weather, and
do not climb a wet ladder.
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Keep all ladders away from power lines --
especially metal ladders.
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Make sure that the ground under the ladder
is secure -- place plywood under the legs to ensure solid footing.
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A ladder can be additionally secured by
tying it to a sturdy portion of the house or to a large eyebolt in the
wall or fascia board.
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