Follow these safety guidelines when working on an extension ladder or stepladder:

  • Keep your hips aligned over the ladder.
  • Keep your waist below the top of a stepladder.
  • Position an extension ladder so your arms can grasp the rung in front of you when standing straight up with your feet at the base of the ladder.

Watch this video to find out more.

Further Information

VIDEO TRANSCRIPT

When you’re working on a ladder it’s important to always keep your hips aligned between the vertical legs of the ladder. This way your center of gravity is directly over the ladder so it’s less likely to tip. On a folding “A” frame ladder, your waist should never be above the ladder top. To properly place an extension ladder, stand at the base and extend your arms toward it. If the angle is right, you should be able to grasp a rung with your outstretched hands.

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Danny Lipford

Founder

Danny Lipford is a home improvement expert and television personality who started his remodeling business, Lipford Construction, at the age of 21 in Mobile, Alabama. He gained national recognition as the host of the nationally syndicated television show, Today's Homeowner with Danny Lipford, which started as a small cable show in Mobile. Danny's expertise in home improvement has also led him to be a contributor to popular magazines and websites and the go-to source for advice on everything related to the home. He has made over 200 national television appearances and served as the home improvement expert for CBS's The Early Show and The Weather Channel for over a decade. Danny is also the founder of 3 Echoes Content Studio, TodaysHomeowner.com, and Checking In With Chelsea, a décor and lifestyle blog.

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