We know the Australian way: if something around the house needs fixing, you have a crack at it yourself. Whether it’s painting the eaves or clearing out the gutters before bushfire season, the ladder is often the first tool out of the shed.

However, ladder falls are one of the most common causes of home injury in Australia. According to the ACCC and Safe Work Australia, thousands of Aussies are hospitalised every year due to DIY falls—often from heights of less than two metres.

If you are planning to climb up this weekend, please put safety first. Here is your essential guide to ladder safety.

1. Check Your Gear (Don't Assume "She'll Be Right")

Before you even step on the first rung, give your ladder a thorough inspection. If it’s been sitting behind the shed in the rain for three years, check for:

Rust or corrosion on metal ladders.

Rot or splitting on timber ladders.

Missing or loose feet: The rubber feet are essential for grip. If they are worn down to the metal, the ladder will slide.

Oil or grease: Wipe down the rungs to ensure they aren't slippery.

Pro Tip: If you are working near power lines (like the service line coming into your house from the street), never use an aluminium ladder. Fibreglass is the only safe option around electricity.

2. Dress for the Job (No Thongs Allowed)

It might be a scorcher of a day, but safety gear is non-negotiable.

Footwear: Thongs (flip-flops) are the enemy of ladder safety. Wear enclosed, non-slip boots or sturdy sneakers with good grip.

Clothing: Avoid baggy clothes that could snag on the ladder or guttering.

Sun Safety: If you’re up there for a while, slap on a hat and sunscreen. The sun hits harder on the roof.

3. The Setup: The 4-to-1 Rule

Setting the angle of the ladder correctly is critical for stability. Use the 4-to-1 rule: For every 4 metres of height, the base of the ladder should be 1 metre away from the wall.

How to test it: Stand with your toes against the ladder feet and reach your arms forward. You should be able to comfortably hold the rungs at shoulder height.

If you can't reach them, the ladder is too steep (risk of tipping backward).

If you can reach past them, the ladder is too shallow (risk of the feet sliding out).

4. Ground and Surroundings

Australian backyards aren't always perfectly paved.

Level Ground: Never place a ladder on uneven dirt, gravel, or stacked bricks. If the ground is soft, use a wide plank of wood under the feet to distribute the weight.

Secure the Top: If possible, tie the top of the ladder to a secure point to prevent sideways sliding.

Watch for Pests: Be careful where you put your hands. Under the eaves and inside gutter lips are favourite hiding spots for Redback spiders and wasps.

5. The Golden Rules of Climbing

Once you are on the move, keep these three rules in mind:

Three Points of Contact: Always keep two hands and one foot, or two feet and one hand, on the ladder at all times.

Keep Your Belt Buckle Between the Rails: Never overreach sideways. If your belt buckle moves past the side rail of the ladder, you are overbalancing. Climb down and move the ladder instead.

Don't Stand on the Top Rung: Most ladders have a "do not stand above this step" warning. Obey it. You need the top part of the ladder to hold onto for balance.

6. Know When to Call a Pro

There is no shame in outsourcing the dangerous jobs. In fact, it’s often the smartest move. You should consider hiring a professional if:

Your home is double-storey or higher.

The ground around your house is sloping or uneven.

You feel dizzy or uncomfortable with heights.

You don't have a spotter (someone to hold the ladder at the base).

Stay Safe on the Ground

Gutter cleaning is essential for protecting your home from storm damage and reducing bushfire risks, but it doesn't mean you have to be the one on the roof.

Prefer to keep your feet firmly on the ground? We have the industrial equipment, safety harnesses, and training to get your gutters spotless without the risk.

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