How to Set up and Use an Extension Ladder

1. Prior to use, please inspect the ladder. Any damage to the rungs, the rung lock or the pulley could render the extension ladder unsafe or impractical to use. Prior to use, the ladder should be subject to a thorough examination.

2. Please relocate the ladder. It is imperative that the ladder is secured in place using the provided rung lock or an alternative safety mechanism. Should the fly move as the ladder is being moved, there is a risk of injury to fingers and hands. These could be pinched or broken as they become caught between the fly and the base or between the rungs of the two sections.

3. The next step is to position the ladder. Position the ladder in the desired location (without extending it) and place it on the shoe or foot attached to the base. For most extension ladders, the fly should be positioned on top of the base. This not only extends the ladder higher, but also places it on the outer, climbable side.
To ensure the ladder is positioned correctly for climbing, the base should be 1/4 of the height of the extended ladder away from the building. For example, if the extended ladder is 12 feet (3.66 m) high, the base should be 3 feet (.914 m) away from the structure.

4. Please raise the fly section. If your ladder is equipped with a pulley, simply pull on the rope to extend the ladder. If not, push the fly up manually.
It is essential to ensure that the base of the ladder is continuously footed (with at least one person holding both rails of the base continuously) during the raising process.
Extending the ladder in windy conditions requires extreme caution.
If working on or examining a roof, extend the ladder to about 3 feet (.914 m) above the working height.

5. Secure the fly in position with the rung locks. This will guarantee that the fly will remain securely closed during the ascent of the ladder.

6. The ladder should be lowered carefully to the structure, with particular attention paid to maintaining contact with the base of the ladder to prevent it from moving out of position. It is imperative that both sides of the ladder have good contact with the structure. In the event that one edge of the ladder is not in contact with the structure, it is not safe to climb and all personnel must evacuate the ladder.

7. Please utilise the ladder. Please ascend the ladder in a methodical manner, one rung at a time. It is important to maintain a hold with both hands as you move your feet up each rung. Please refrain from carrying other items in your hands at this time. Should you require small tools, we advise you to place them in a tool belt that you can carry around your waist.
When fully extending the ladder, we recommend using a tie-down or bungee cord to secure it in place. Wrap the cord around the top part of the ladder and secure it to the building.