Ladder safety
Ladder-related injuries among men aged 65 and older are steadily increasing in Australia.
Over 1,000 Queenslanders are hospitalised each year after falling off ladders and most of these injuries happen around the home.
On average more than 30 Australians—mainly men—die each year after falling off ladders. Most men who are injured or killed are at or nearing retirement age and are doing maintenance around their home.
Ladder safety matters
‘Ladder safety matters’ is a national education campaign that encourages older Australian men to stop and think before using a ladder. It’s often the split-second decision or risky shortcut that results in a fall.
Watch the below video or visit our YouTube channel to hear personal accounts of how ladder falls have changed lives, as well as safety tips from Dr Owen Roodenburg, Head of the Trauma Intensive Care Unit at The Alfred Hospital.
[Mick]
It was a very humid, hot day and I was feeling really tired.
I went round the side of the house and saw the big hedge that my wife's been asking me to cut for so long.
I had ladders set too far apart and I had a plank that I thought would be all right to walk on.
The ladders gave way and I crashed to the ground about 2 meters, 2 and a half meters.
Hit my head on the windowsill on the way down.
Ended up breaking 4 ribs and broke C6 and fractured five vertebrae.
It's enough to make you feel depressed because I can't do anything. I struggle to mow the lawns. I've got to a point where I feel useless.
I've had my teary moments where, what's the use of being around - I can't do anything. And that's really hard for men that have done their own work all of their lives. It's so hard to let go and pay for someone to come in and do it or ask someone to do it.
And I would say to anyone of 50 up, think twice about going up a ladder.
[Dr Owen Roodenburg]
If you or someone that you care about needs to use a ladder, it's unlikely you'll plan to fall, but you can definitely plan not to fall.
It's the same old story; it’s the preparation that saves you.
[Text on screen]
When using a ladder, make safety matter. https://www.productsafety.gov.au/products/outdoor/workshop/ladders
Australian Consumer Law. A joint initiative of Australian, state and territory consumer affairs agencies and the Victorian Department of Health and Human Services.
Ladder safety tips
Stay safe when using a ladder by following these steps.
Step 1—Consider other ways to get the job done
Consider whether you should buy a ladder at all.
If you’re an older person or a person living with disability, you may be eligible for home maintenance help from your local council or another agency.
To check if you qualify, contact:
- your local council
- My Aged Care (Australian Government)
- your disability support service.
Step 2—Choose a safe ladder
If you need a ladder, only buy one that meets the Australian Standard (AS/NZS 1892). The ladder should be labelled, but ask the retailer if you’re not sure.
There are 2 main types of ladders:
- A-frame ladders—these look like the letter A when they’re set up and support themselves; they’re also called step ladders.
- extension ladders—these rest on a support so they’re on an angle and gravity holds them up.
Step 3—Follow all safety instructions
Always follow the instructions on the packaging or manual and any safety warnings on the ladder.
Before using a ladder make sure it:
- is the right height for the job
- has non-slip feet
- hasn’t warped, rusted or corroded
- isn’t missing any parts
- is placed on flat, firm ground
- locks securely into place.
Step 4—Check for unsafe conditions
Make sure there are no power lines or exposed wires near the ladder.
Never use ladders in thunderstorms, rain or wind.
Step 5—Set it up safely
Lean the ladder against a wall at the safest vertical to horizontal ratio of 4:1 (height:distance). This means if the ladder is 4 metres tall, place the foot of the ladder 1 metre from the wall.
Secure the top of an extension ladder into position before starting work.
Step 6—Climb it safely
When climbing a ladder always:
- wear enclosed, non-slip shoes
- have someone hold it at the base
- climb up the middle
- hold it with both hands
- carry any tools in a tool belt.
Don't stand above the second step from the top on a step ladder or above the third rung on an extension ladder.
Step 7—Work safely
When working on a ladder always:
- keep hold of the ladder with one hand
- work within arm’s reach of the ladder—don’t lean over
- climb down and safely reposition the ladder if you need to reach something.
Step 8—Work to your ability
Know your own capabilities. Be careful about climbing a ladder if you:
- are alone and can’t get help
- have a disability or medical condition
- are taking medication.
More information
- Download our Ladder safety brochure, Ladder safety poster or order hard copies.
- Find tips to reduce falls at home.