How Do Ladders Not Slip?

While ladders are a useful tool for quick tasks that require reaching higher ground, there is a risk of your ladder slipping while you’re using it, which can lead to serious injuries.  In fact, in the UK during 2023/24, ladders were involved in nearly 40% of the 50 workplace fatalities from fall from height, with thousands more suffering serious non-fatal injuries from falls from ladders.

So, how do ladders not slip and what steps can you take to ensure that your ladder doesn’t slip why you’re using it? Keep reading this blog to find out…

Why Do Leaning Ladders Not Slip?

Assuming that a leaning ladder is actually the right tool for your job - i.e. your task is simple and will take no more than 30 minutes – the ladder will generally stay in place through a combination of factors, including:

• Using the correct angle when setting up the ladder. Follow the 1-in-4 rule, which states that for every 4 units of height your ladder reaches, the base will be 1 unit away from the wall. This safety guideline should help to create a stable 75-degree angle.
  
  

• Setting up the ladder on a firm, stable ground that is free of debris.
  
  

• Securing the ladder to a fixed point.
  
  

• If the task is going to take longer than 30 minutes or if you are carrying out a complicated task, consider using a different height access solution, like scaffolding.

How to Prevent a Ladder from Slipping

Your options from most to least safe are:

Anchor the Ladder

The best method to secure your ladder is to tie the stiles to a strong, fixed anchor point. This should prevent it from moving.

Use Ladder Stability and Anti-slip Devices

Specialised stability accessories can be attached to the ladder stiles to provide a wider, more secure base, reducing the base of slipping. Anti-slip mats and feet can also be used for extra security and grip..

Wedge the Ladder

If you are setting up a ladder on a soft surface, you can sometimes wedge the ladder’s feet into the ground to prevent them from sinking or slipping. You can also wedge the base of the stiles against a wall to prevent movement, but this should only be done as a last resort.

Foot the Ladder

As a temporary solution, an adult can stand at the base of the ladder with one foot on the bottom rung and hands on the stiles to keep it firmly in place. This method, however, is not sufficient to prevent a fall and should be avoided if possible

By following the recommendations laid out in this blog, you should be able to prevent your ladder from slipping while in use, reducing the risk of accidents and serious injuries.

If you have any further questions about how to prevent a ladder from slipping , please get in touch with our team using the button below.

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