Be Aware of Ladder Safety When Gutter Cleaning – Eleven Tips from Security Specialists 

With autumn just around the corner, many of us turn our attention to gutter cleaning to prepare for the rainy and/or snowy season ahead. However, this annual ritual is not without risk. Before embarking on that ladder, Security Specialists wants you to be aware of these eleven safety and security tips that can help prevent a deadly accident:

1. Only use a ladder on a stable and level surface.
2. Look Before You Climb – Look for overhead power lines before handling a ladder.
3. Avoid using a metal ladder near power lines or exposed energized electrical equipment.
4. Always inspect the ladder before using it.
5. Secure tall ladders by lashing or fastening the ladder to prevent movement.
6. When using an A-frame stepladder, make sure the brace is locked in place.
7. Keep both your feet on the ladder.
8. Always maintain a 3-point (two hands and a foot, or two feet and a hand) contact on the ladder when climbing.
9. Never move or shift a ladder while a person or equipment is on the ladder.
10. Do not use the top step/rung of a ladder as a step/rung unless it was designed for that purpose.
11. Never exceed the maximum load rating of a ladder. Be aware of the ladder’s load rating and of the weight it is supporting, including the weight of any tools or equipment.

We at Security Specialists Want You and Your Employees to Stay Safe and Secure When Cleaning Gutters or Performing Any Other Activity That Requires Them to Get on a Ladder!