Ladder and Tool Safety

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Ladder and Tool Safety

Many home injuries and deaths occur while people are working around the house, or doing remodeling. Safety should always be the top priority when engaged in these activities. It’s very important to only use tools and gadgets as they were intended, and you should always follow all manufacturers’ safety guidelines. Many home accidents occur on ladders. Ladders are a great help for homeowners and handymen, but when used improperly, they’re extremely dangerous. Never stand on top of a step ladder, or on the top rung of a regular ladder, not even for a second, even if you feel it’s perfectly safe to do so. It isn’t safe, and you’re taking a terrible risk – don’t do it. And no more than one person should ever be on a ladder at the same time. That is very dangerous. Ladders also have weight ratings, and if you’re too heavy, find a stronger ladder that’s rated to handle someone your size. Ladders can and do break, so don’t take any chances. Also make sure the ladder is stable, and if you need to, have someone hold the base while you’re on it. A little bit of wobble at the base can make a huge difference when you’re at the top. What might seem like no big deal on the ground, can cause a ladder to be very unstable when there’s a couple hundred pounds near the top of it. Another important precaution is to watch out for electrical wires and other safety hazards, and don’t go near them, or allow your ladder to touch them. Of course, like all tools, when not in use ladders should be properly secured so that children can’t use them and get hurt. Power tools and machines are equally helpful, and pose equal if not greater safety risks. Just as with ladders, only use a power tool the way it was intended to be used. It’s not a good idea to improvise with dangerous machinery. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions, and don’t try to work around any safety features, even if you view them as a hassle. They’re there for a reason, and have saved many lives. So don’t ever try to circumvent or remove a safety guard or any similar feature. And always wear the recommended safety gear, such as gloves or glasses, or anything else the manufacturer recommends. Be aware of your surroundings, and keep anyone who isn’t necessary for the job away from the tool or the machine, especially small children. Following these safety tips can save your life, and the lives of others.

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