FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Spring Safety

CHICAGO- March 2005- The snow is melting, the birds are chirping and the mercury is rising—spring is in the air! With warm weather approaching, it’s no wonder that homeowners are itching to fix up their homes and do some serious spring cleaning.

“It’s especially important to consider ladder safety this time of year—more people are climbing ladders during the Spring than any other season,” said Ron Pietrzak, executive director, American Ladder Institute (ALI).

Ladders are serious business. Each year, more than 500,000 people are treated in hospital emergency rooms, doctor’s offices and clinics because of ladder misuse.

Many of these injuries are cuts, bruises and fractured bones. However, more than 300 people die each year from ladder injuries—about one ladder fatality each day!

Because ladder injuries are most often caused by improper selection and misuse, it’s important to know how to choose the right ladder for the job.

“Always climb with safety in mind,” said Thomas W. Greco, ALI president.

First, look at the ladder’s duty rating. This rating notes the maximum weight load the ladder can safely hold. It’s important to remember that this rating corresponds to the total weight of the climber, plus the weight of all tools and gear the climber will bring on the ladder.

The duty rating should be obviously posted on the ladder’s safety label. If the label can not be clearly read, or if it’s missing or lost, do not use the ladder. This may be a sign the ladder is too old to be used safely.

Type III, II, I, IA and IAA ladders offer load capacities of 200, 225, 250, 300 and 375 pounds, respectively.

Next, it’s important that the climber considers the ladder size. Measure the total height you would like to reach and subtract the climber’s height. This is the highest standing level of the ladder that you should select.

Be sure that the ladder is tall enough that you will not be reaching at any time. Reaching can cause the ladder to topple over. Always inspect the ladder before using it. Check for any loose hinges or rungs, clean off any foreign substances that may be present (i.e. mud, grease, etc.) that might have accumulated on the ladder. “Would you drive your car with a flat tire if you knew about it before starting a trip?” said Greco. “Ladder safety is something no one should take for granted—inspect your ladder before every use.” Properly stabilize the ladder. Every ladder should be placed on a firm, level surface. Never place a ladder on ground that is uneven. Always engage the ladder locks or braces before climbing the ladder. Be sure to face the ladder when climbing up or down. Your body should be centered between the side rails. Maintain a firm grip and use both hands when climbing. Furthermore, never use ladders in strong wind, and be sure not to place your ladder in front of any door that is not properly locked, secured or guarded. When your task is complete, be sure to store ladders in sheltered, dry, well-ventilated areas to prevent weather damage, such as rust and warping. If you’re not sure or have questions about choosing your ladder or climbing it safely, be sure to ask. It’s always better to be safe than sorry.

The American Ladder Institute was founded in 1947 and represents North American ladder manufacturers and is committed to the highest standards of ladder safety. ALI's mission is to educate the public as to the selection, care, and safe use of ladders and develop and disseminate the appropriate standards for design, construction, testing, care and use of ladders. For more information, please contact ALI at 312-644-6610 or online at www.americanladderinstitute.org


FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Safety First When Selecting Ladders for Home Improvement Projects

Chicago - July 2004 – It’s summertime, and while the living is easy, sometimes the projects aren’t.

As do-it-yourselfers scale to new heights to finish those warm-weather jobs, so must the ladders they select. From trimming tree branches to painting two-story entry ways in today’s elegant homes, homeowners find themselves needing the correct ladder for a variety of situations. Though ladders help homeowners do these projects with ease, important safety measures related to each job must be considered at the time the ladder is selected.

Consider the right tool for the job. Just as one would not select a screw driver to pound a nail, a homeowner should not use a single ladder for all household needs. The vast majority of accidents involving ladders result from the failure to exercise caution – no matter what type of ladder is needed. Homeowners need to study their purchase carefully before bringing it home.

“It’s so important to read the labels on a ladder,” says Donald L. Gibson, vice president of engineering for Louisville Ladder Group located in Louisville, KY. “The notice label clearly describes the highest standing level of the ladder, and its duty rating – that is the maximum intended load that should be placed on the ladder.

The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), which estimates that more than 164,000 emergency room-treated injuries in the U.S. are ladder related, requires that labels are placed securely on all ladders. If the label on your ladder is missing or worn away contact the manufacturer for replacements. This may also be an indication that your ladder may be too old to be used safely.

From single- and double-sided step ladders to extension and platform ladders, a wide variety of product styles exist to tackle even the toughest household jobs. Additionally, homeowners may choose from wood, fiberglass or aluminum materials. While aluminum ladders are a popular choice for their lightweight construction, homeowners should carefully consider their selection in this area. Fiberglass (as long as it remains clean and dry) is non-conductive, making it a better choice around electrical wiring.

“The biggest consumer abuse of ladders occurs when you over-reach,” says Gibson. “Homeowners need to get down from the ladder and reposition it to reach new areas and purchase ladders that are the proper height or length for the job.”

To determine the proper ladder size, according to Gibson, take the height of the job they wish to reach and subtract the user’s height. This will be the highest standing level of the ladder that you should select.

Another consideration is the duty rating of the ladder. Type III, II, I, 1A and 1AA ladders offer load capacities 200, 225, 250, 300 and 375 pounds, respectively.

“What consumers need to remember is that the total load on the ladder is not only their own weight, but also the weight of the tools and materials they will be handling while on the ladder,” Gibson relates.

A few other ladder safety tips to keep your jobs “injury-free” include:

  • Always inspect the ladder. Check the ladder for any loose or missing parts, clean off any mud or debris that might have accumulated on the ladder, never use ladders with structural defects and use the ladder only for the purpose for which it was designed (again, refer to manufacturer's labeling and recommendations).
  • Properly stabilize the ladder. Every ladder should be placed on a firm, level surface. Never place a ladder on ground that is uneven. Always engage the ladder locks or braces before climbing the ladder.
  • Face the ladder when climbing up or down. Your body should be centered between the side rails. Maintain a firm grip and use both hands when climbing. Do not climb onto the ladder from the side.
  • Keep your ladder within reach of the job at hand. Position the ladder closest to your job and step off the ladder to reposition to your job. Don’t compromise your balance by extending your reach beyond the ladder.
  • Transport the ladder properly. Carry ladders parallel to the ground and tie ladders down securely when transporting.

The American Ladder Institute represents North American ladder manufacturers and is committed to the highest standards of ladder safety. For more information, please contact ALI at 312-644-6610 or online at www.americanladderinstitute.org.




FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Safety Standards Ensure Ladders are Fit for Purpose

Chicago- The American National Standards Committee on Safety in the Construction, Care and Use of Ladders of the American Ladder Institute (ALI) has 10 ladder safety standards available that are invaluable resources. The standards are published in association with the American National Standards Institute (ANSI).

Standards are agreements containing technical specifications or other precise criteria to be used consistently as rules, guidelines or definitions of characteristics, to ensure that materials, products, processes and services are fit for their purpose. Standards provide data on safety aspects and ensure that safety is properly addressed. By using these standards consistently, ladder use becomes safer and accidents are prevented.

The ANSI ASC A14 Committee is responsible for developing rules governing the safe design, construction, testing, selection, care and use of ladders of various common types including, but not limited to: fixed, job built and portable ladders.

By using the guidelines the ladder safety standards sets out, companies can ensure that ladders are fit for the purpose used and will protect against injuries. In the case an injury does occur, attorneys can use the standards to determine if the correct ladder was being used.

There are several standards available on ladder safety:

  • Wood Ladders
  • Portable Metal Ladders
  • Portable Reinforced Plastic Ladders
  • Portable Special Duty Ladders
  • Mobile Ladder Stands and Mobile Ladder Stand Platforms
  • Fixed Ladders
  • Job Made Wooden Ladders
  • Portable Ladder Accessories (coming soon)
  • Ceiling Mounted Disappearing Climbing Systems (coming soon)
  • Utility Step-Stools (coming soon)

The standards for Fixed Ladders and Job Made Wooden Ladders are $30 for ALI members and $50 for non-members. All other standards are $75 for ALI members and $125 for non-members.

The American Ladder Institute represents North American ladder manufacturers and is committed to the highest standards of ladder safety. For more information or an order form for standards, please contact ALI at 312-644-6610 or online at www.americanladderinstitute.org


FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Safety First When Using Ladders in Home Improvement Projects

Chicago – In the summer months, homeowners take advantage of the nice weather to make improvements to the exteriors of their homes. From cleaning gutters to painting to fixing the television antenna, homeowners find themselves pulling out their ladders for the job. Though ladders help homeowners do these projects with ease, important safety measures need to be followed.

Although there is always a risk in working on elevated areas, it is a fact that the vast majority of accidents involving ladders result from the failure to exercise caution. Proper maintenance, as well as routine inspections and training, can be the first step in reducing the number of ladder-related injuries.

“The first thing you need to do before stepping foot on your ladder is to refresh your knowledge by reading the label on your ladder,” stated Alan Kline, President of Lynn Ladder and member of the American Ladder Institute. “The label will give you all the information necessary to set up your ladder properly.”

The Consumer Product Safety Commission requires that labels are placed securely on all ladders. If the label on your ladder is missing or worn away, that is an indication that your ladder may be too old to be used safely.

When choosing a ladder for home improvement projects, select an extension ladder. Extension ladders come in various sizes and you’ll need one that can be extended taller than the area you need to work on. When in doubt about the length, buy a longer ladder than you’ll think you’ll need.

“Many people make the mistake of borrowing a ladder from a friend or neighbor. When you borrow a ladder, you don’t know the age of the ladder or how it has been maintained through the years,” stated Kline. “A ladder is a personal item. You need to be familiar with how it works and how to best care for it. That is the only way you can be sure the ladder you are using is safe.”

Here are a few ladder safety tips to keep your jobs “injury-free.”

  • Always inspect the ladder. Check the ladder for any loose hinges or rungs, clean off any mud that might have accumulated on the ladder, avoid using ladders with structural defects and use the ladder only for the purpose for which it was designed (refer to manufacturer's labeling and recommendations).

  • Properly stabilize the ladder. Every ladder should be placed on a firm, level surface. Never place a ladder on ground that is uneven. Always engage the ladder locks or braces before climbing the ladder.

  • Face the ladder when climbing up or down. Your body should be centered between the side rails. Maintain a firm grip and use both hands when climbing. Do not climb onto the ladder from the side.

  • Keep your ladder within reach of the job at hand. Position the ladder closest to your job and step off the ladder to reposition to your job. Don’t compromise your balance by extending your reach beyond the ladder.

  • Transport the ladder properly. Carry ladders parallel to the ground and tie ladders down securely when transporting.

The American Ladder Institute represents North American ladder manufacturers and is committed to the highest standards of ladder safety. For more information, please contact ALI at 312-644-6610 or online at www.americanladderinstitute.org


FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Safety Standards Ensure Ladders are Fit for Purpose

Chicago - The American National Standards Committee on Safety in the Construction, Care and Use of Ladders of the American Ladder Institute (ALI) has 10 ladder safety standards available that are invaluable resources. The standards are published in association with the American National Standards Institute (ANSI).

Standards are agreements containing technical specifications or other precise criteria to be used consistently as rules, guidelines or definitions of characteristics, to ensure that materials, products, processes and services are fit for their purpose. Standards provide data on safety aspects and ensure that safety is properly addressed. By using these standards consistently, ladder use becomes safer and accidents are prevented.

The ANSI ASC A14 Committee is responsible for developing rules governing the safe design, construction, testing, selection, care and use of ladders of various common types including, but not limited to: fixed, job built and portable ladders.

By using the guidelines the ladder safety standards sets out, companies can ensure that ladders are fit for the purpose used and will protect against injuries. In the case an injury does occur, attorneys can use the standards to determine if the correct ladder was being used.

There are several standards available on ladder safety:
  • Wood Ladders
  • Portable Metal Ladders
  • Portable Reinforced Plastic Ladders
  • Portable Special Duty Ladders
  • Mobile Ladder Stands and Mobile Ladder Stand Platforms
  • Fixed Ladders
  • Job Made Wooden Ladders
  • Portable Ladder Accessories (coming soon)
  • Ceiling Mounted Disappearing Climbing Systems (coming soon)
  • Utility Step-Stools (coming soon)
The standards for Fixed Ladders and Job Made Wooden Ladders are $30 for ALI members and $50 for non-members. All other standards are $75 for ALI members and $125 for non-members.

The American Ladder Institute represents North American ladder manufacturers and is committed to the highest standards of ladder safety. For more information or an order form for standards, please contact ALI at 312-644-6610 or online at www.americanladderinstitute.org.


FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Ladder Matters for Construction Safety

Chicago - In the construction world, safety can be the difference between life or death situations. Working on elevated sites, scaffolding and/or ladders is a part of the job.

Although there is always a risk in working on elevated areas, it is a fact that the vast majority of accidents involving ladders result from the failure to exercise caution. Proper maintenance, as well as routine inspections and training, can be the first step in reducing the number of ladder-related injuries.

"We know that construction workers are often equipped with basic ladder safety knowledge before stepping on a ladder," said Tom Greco, C.O.O. of Green Bull, Inc., a ladder manufacturer in Louisville, Kentucky and President of the American Ladder Institute (ALI), "But the difference between those who incur injuries and those who avoid them, often comes down to how seriously they take ladder safety measures."

In the construction industry, keeping informed on ladder safety can never be underestimated. Here are a few ladder safety tips to keep your jobs "injury-free."
  • Always inspect the ladder. Check the ladder for any loose hinges or rungs, clean off any mud that might have accumulated on the ladder, avoid using ladders with structural defects and use the ladder only for the purpose for which it was designed (refer to manufacturer's labeling and recommendations).
  • Choose the right ladder for the job. Use only non-conductive side rails around live electrical equipment. Extension ladders are ideal for use outdoors to reach high places like the roof of a structure or building.
  • Properly stabilize the ladder. Every ladder should be placed on a firm, level surface. Never place a ladder on ground that is uneven. Always engage the ladder locks or braces before climbing the ladder.
  • Do not sit on the ladder. Simply stated, never sit or stand on the top cap of a step ladder – it is not designed to carry your weight.
  • Keep your ladder within reach of the job at hand. Position the ladder closet to your job and step off the ladder to reposition to your job. Don’t compromise your balance by extending your reach beyond the ladder.
  • Transport the ladder properly. Carry ladders parallel to the ground and tie ladders down securely when transporting.
    • "As a ladder manufacturer, ladder safety is our number one priority," said Greco. "Spreading the word about ladder safety, is important, because it enables our customers to continue to do their job injury-free."

    The American Ladder Institute represents North American ladder manufacturers and is committed to the highest standards of ladder safety. For more information, please contact ALI at 312-644-6610 or online at www.americanladderinstitute.org.


    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

    Ladder Matters for Painters

    Chicago - In the painting industry, safety can be the difference between life or death situations. Working on elevated sites, scaffolding and/or ladders is a part of the job.

    Although there is always a risk in working on elevated areas, it is a fact that the vast majority of accidents involving ladders result from the failure to exercise caution. Proper maintenance, as well as routine inspections and training, can be the first step in reducing the number of ladder-related injuries.

    "We know that painters are often equipped with basic ladder safety knowledge before stepping on a ladder," said Tom Greco, C.O.O. of Green Bull, Inc., a ladder manufacturer in Louisville, Kentucky and President of the American Ladder Institute (ALI), "But the difference between those who incur injuries and those who avoid them, often comes down to how seriously they take ladder safety measures."

    In the painting industry, keeping informed on ladder safety can never be underestimated. Here are a few ladder safety tips to keep your jobs "injury-free."
  • Always inspect the ladder. Check the ladder for any loose hinges or rungs, clean off any mud that might have accumulated on the ladder, avoid using ladders with structural defects and use the ladder only for the purpose for which it was designed (refer to manufacturer's labeling and recommendations).
  • Choose the right ladder for the job. Use only non-conductive side rails around live electrical equipment. Extension ladders are ideal for use outdoors to reach high places like the outside façade of a structure or building.
  • Properly stabilize the ladder. Every ladder should be placed on a firm, level surface. Never place a ladder on ground that is uneven. Always engage the ladder locks or braces before climbing the ladder.
  • Do not sit on the ladder. Simply stated, never sit or stand on the top cap of a step ladder – it is not designed to carry your weight.
  • Keep your ladder within reach of the job at hand. Position the ladder closet to your job and step off the ladder to reposition to your job. Don’t compromise your balance by extending your reach beyond the ladder.
  • Transport the ladder properly. Carry ladders parallel to the ground and tie ladders down securely when transporting.
    • "As a ladder manufacturer, ladder safety is our number one priority," said Greco. "Spreading the word about ladder safety, is important, because it enables our customers to continue to do their job injury-free."

    The American Ladder Institute represents North American ladder manufacturers and is committed to the highest standards of ladder safety. For more information, please contact ALI at 312-644-6610 or online at www.americanladderinstitute.org.


    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

    YOUR CHECKLIST FOR LADDER SAFETY!

    Ladders are commonplace in the work environment, so it is important that your ladder is used safely and properly. Before using your ladder, take a moment to inspect the ladder to assure that it can be operated safely.

    The American Ladder Institute (ALI) recommends the following "Checklist" for inspecting your ladder:
    • Make sure that all rungs and steps are intact.
    • Check that the rungs are clean and free of grease and oil.
    • Determine that all nuts, bolts, rivets, etc. are tight and in place.
    • Remove any ladder with broken parts, corrosion or fire damage.
    The American Ladder Institute represents North American Ladder manufacturers and is committed to the highest standards of ladder safety. For further information, please contact ALI at  312-644-6610
    Ron Pietrzak Ext. 3632


    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

    THINK LADDER SAFETY WHEN SPRING CLEANING!

    In conjunction with the warm weather and numerous outdoor activities, the American Ladder Institute (ALI) encourages homeowners to think "safety" when using a ladder for chores around the house.

    Here are some easy reminders to consider when using a ladder:
    • Always use a ladder of the right type and weight for the job, not a chair, table, box, etc.
    • Stay off ladders if prone to fainting or dizziness.
    • Position an extension ladder first, then extend it.
    • Secure or have someone hold the ladder bottom.
    • Face the ladder when climbing up or down and hold the side rails with both hands.
    By remembering these quick ladder safety tips, you will be on your way to completing your tasks successfully and safely!

    The American Ladder Institute represents North American ladder manufacturers and is committed to the highest standards of ladder safety. For further information, please contact ALI at 312-644-6610.


    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

    GOING UP? CLIMB IT SAFE

    The American Ladder Institute (ALI), in conjunction with The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS), has recently prepared a brochure for ladder safety entitled, "Climb It Safe" (enclosed).

    The brochure offers in-depth safety precautions both organizations recommend in using a ladder. Highlighted topics in the brochure include: How to use the correct ladder, How to move a ladder, How to set up a ladder, the recommended height of a ladder for specific jobs and safety tips to follow before using a ladder.

    Some key points to keep in mind are the following:

    • Read all labels on the ladder.
    • Before using a ladder, inspect it to make sure it is in good working condition.
    • Make sure the ladder you use is the right size for the job.
    • Never stand on the top rung or step of any step ladder.
    • Place the ladder on firm, even ground.
    • Only one person at a time should be on a ladder.
    • If you feel tired or dizzy, stay off a ladder.
    Each year, the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) reports that there are more than 500,000 people treated in emergency rooms, doctors' offices and clinics due to not following proper safety precautions when using a ladder. Most of the injuries are cuts, bruises and fractured bones. However, according to the CPSC, more than 300 people a year die from injuries related to ladders.

    Proper education and following safety precautions can help prevent these injuries and deaths.


    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

    IT'S ALL ABOUT LADDERS, DUDE!

    The American Ladder Institute (ALI) is proud to announce the completion of the new-and-improved "Ladder Dude" Ladder Safety Teaching Unit. ALI's revised "Ladder Dude" kit includes five ladder safety lesson plans, flash cards, and stickers for children. The revisions of this kit were based on feedback from teaching instructors and input from ALI's current members.

    The American Ladder Institute has emerged as the national trade association representing America's ladder industry. Most of the leading domestic ladder manufacturers and their suppliers, large and small, look to ALI as their common voice. ALI membership is composed of ladder manufacturers throughout North America whose major concern as an industry is to encourage ladder safety. Ladder safety is a legitimate concern and should be a teaching priority with children. Each child will grow to use ladders in the home, workplace, outdoors, etc…why not promote safety and caution at an early age?

    "Ladder Dude" is a worthwhile instructional kit that emphasizes the importance of correct ladder use. Call ALI Headquarters at (312) 644-6610 for more information on obtaining your "Ladder Dude" teaching unit.


    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

    THINK LADDER SAFETY WHEN PERFORMING HOUSEHOLD TASKS

    In conjunction with the change of the seasons, the American Ladder Institute (ALI) encourages homeowners to think "safety" when using a ladder for chores around the house.

    Here are some easy reminders to consider when using a ladder:

    • Review all labels on the ladder.
    • Always use a ladder of the right type and loud rating for the job, not a chair, table, or box.
    • Stay off ladders if prone to fainting or dizziness.
    • Position an extension ladder first, then extend it.
    • Face the ladder when climbing up or down and hold the side rails with both hands.
    ALI recommends the following "Checklist" for inspecting your ladder:

    • Make sure all rungs or steps are intact.
    • Check that all the rungs or steps are clean and free of grease and oil.
    • Determine that all nuts, bolts, rivets, etc. are tight and in place.
    • Do not use a ladder with broken parts, corrosion, or fire damage.
    By reviewing all labels on the ladder and remembering these quick ladder safety tips, you will be on your way to completing your tasks successfully and safely! The American Ladder Institute represents North American ladder manufacturers and is committed to the highest standards of ladder safety. For more information, please contact ALI at (312) 644-6610 or visit the Web site at http://ali.sba.com/ali.


    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

    American Ladder Institute Re-introduces Ladder Safety Classic

    Chicago – The American Ladder Institute (ALI) has re-introduced "Step Right Up", a classic ladder safety instructional video that was first released in 1977. Recently, ALI had the video re-mastered and is offering the ladder safety resource to the public.

    "Step Right Up" is a unique training video that has been teaching proper ladder use for 25 years. Viewers are both entertained and enlightened as ladder safety techniques are humorously presented in the 25-minute film. A comprehensive safety lesson for all ladder users, "Step Right Up" shows viewers how to avoid common mistakes when using ladders. Among the tips offered in the video include choosing the right ladder, correct ladder placement, appropriate climbing methods and proper ladder inspection.

    The Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA) requires that businesses provide their employees with proper ladder safety instruction. "Step Right Up" is an excellent resource.

    To order a copy of "Step Right Up", visit www.americanladderinstitute.org to obtain an order form or contact ALI at 312.644.6610, ext. 5793. The cost of the video is $24.95, including shipping and handling. When ordering three or more videos, the cost is $19.95 per video.

    The American Ladder Institute represents North American ladder manufacturers and is committed to the highest standards of ladder safety. For more information, please contact ALI at 312.644.6610 or visit www.americanladderinstitute.org.


     

    Copyright © 2002 American Ladder Institute. All other rights reserved.