How to Fasten a Ladder to a Rack

Proper care will help keep your ladder from being damaged.

Caring for your ladder will help you to stay safe and alive on the job site. A big part of ladder care is transporting the ladder properly. A ladder rack firmly attached to your truck is the right tool for the job. Securing the ladder to the rack so that it has no chance of falling from the vehicle can protect it from damage, protect you from a fall and protect other commuters on the road with you.

Things You'll Need

• 2 bungee cords
• Chain
• Padlock
• Red rag

Instructions

1. Squat at the center of your ladder (as it lies on the ground), set it on its side, grasp the top side and lift the ladder, using your legs, as you stand.

2. Place the ladder flat on the rack on your truck so that it is as far forward as possible and extends no further than 3 feet past the rear of the vehicle.

3. Wrap one bungee cord around the outside of the ladder at the forward cross member. Wrap the cord around the side of the ladder once. Wrap the cord around the ladder a second time and around the long bar of the rack just in front of the forward crossbar. Pull the cord tightly (even if you have to wrap the ladder and rack again) and connect the two end hooks together with the points of the hooks facing. Wrap the second cord in the same way just behind the rear crossbar.

4. Step into the bed of the truck. Wrap your chain around the inside edge of the ladder several times, connecting it to the forward crossbar. Slide your open padlock through both ends of the chain and close the lock to secure the ladder.

5. Tie the red rag on the back end of the ladder as a signal to other motorists that it extends beyond the truck.

Tips & Warnings

• Securing the ladder with a chain and padlock will keep it from standing on its outside edge and flipping off of the truck during transport. It also will protect your ladder from theft.

• Multiple ladders should be stacked on either outside edge of the rack by using the same bungee and chain method. Never tie a ladder by the rungs, especially with a chain, as this may damage the rung and weaken your ladder.

References

• University of Hawaii at Hilo: Ladder Safety