How to Use a Ladder Brace

Ladders are one-man tools that allow easy access to second floor windows and tall tree branches. Ladder safety is a concern every time you climb a ladder to new heights. Ladder braces are available to stabilize ladder movement during use. Several types of ladder braces are available to decrease injuries and increase safety while using a ladder. Read on to learn how to use a ladder brace.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Attach a large freestanding ladder stabilizer to your ladder to prevent movement while you reach for high places. Made from lightweight aluminum, a large ladder stabilizer can allow you to reach up to 26 feet when used against a structure and 14 feet if used as a freestanding brace. Attach the stabilizer to the bottom ladder rung and a middle rung to prevent movement and slippage.

2. Use a ladder stabilizer that attaches to the top of the ladder and rests against your work surface. The stabilizer holds the ladder away from the work surface while adding versatility. Bolt your stabilizer to the top of your ladder, extend the arms to your desired width and rest the rubber coated feet against the side of the building you are working on. These type of stabilizers, or ladder braces, are either fixed-depth or adjustable. Choose the type that best suits your work needs.

3. Install a simple ladder brace that attaches to the bottom of the ladder and prevents slippage. The ladder brace, marketed as a ladder stabilizer, bolts to the bottom of the ladder, holding the ladder in place with its rubber end caps.

Tips & Warnings

• Use a ladder only for its intended purpose and within established safety guidelines. Serious falls can occur if a ladder is used improperly or beyond its intended capacity.

Resources

• National AG Safety Database for a Ladder Safety Checklist

[eclectic-one]

on 1/26/2009 Thanks for the tip.