Some people become so casual about their work on access equipment, sure it is just like riding a bike. The same for many who use extension ladders often for their work. However it is a lack of safety practices and a casual attitide that leads to many accidents every year.

Before choosing and using an extension ladder firstly consider the following questions. When is an extension ladder the most suitable type of access equipment? Is the ladder in a safe condition to be used? Are you going to be using the ladder in a safe location? Last but not least do you or the other people really know how to use it safely?

There is always the need to assess if the job requires work at height firstly with a work assessment and if it does then choose the best aluminium extension ladders available in order to prevent falls.

Before choosing aluminium extension ladders confirm with the manufacturer or seller that the ladder is suitable for your worst case work scenarios. Ensure that it meets all the regulations and safety standards, never fall for cheap products which do not meet the necessary standards. By all means if you find a good deal of the right quality which adheres to the standards then choose this.

Here are some guidelines to help you decide to use an extension ladder:
1. The job should make it possible for you to be on the ladder for no longer than 30 minutes.
2. It should be possible to maintain three points of contact in the working position and this must include a handhold, and your feet and hands
3. That the job is light work as if it is too strenuous then a detailed manual handling assessment should be done.

When you have started working on your aluminium extension ladder you should never overreach or overload it. Never take anything up that is higher than the load stated on the ladder safety instructions.

Also avoid work that involves side loading, and if it is not possible to avoid then you should tie the steps to a suitable point but the reality is there may be more suitable access equipment in this case.

Ideally do not carry something, but if you need to make sure you have one hand free to grip the ladder. Finally although it may seem obvious always wear suitable clothing which is flexible for the job on extension ladders but not too floppy so it will not get caught up in anything.

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