General Ladder Safety: Follow manufacturer’s instructions, check your ladder before each use. Never leave a ladder unattended or in an unsafe place. Always keep the ladder away from overhead power lines and other potential hazards. Keep children and pets out of areas where ladders are stored. Use only with proper safety equipment such as fall arrest systems, harnesses, lifelines, etc.

Vertical Ladder Safety: Use a sturdy ladder with a wide base. Avoid using a ladder vertically on uneven ground. If you must climb up or down a vertical surface, make sure it is stable. Do not lean against walls when climbing. When descending, always step off at least one rung to prevent falling over the side. Never use a ladder for support while standing on another object (such as a roof).

Ladder Maintenance: Ladders should be inspected regularly by professionals who have experience working with them.

Straight up and down: Make sure the top of the ladder is higher than the bottom rung or step by at least 3 feet. This will help keep your head clear of any obstructions that may fall from above. The distance between each rung or step can vary depending upon the type of ladder being used. For example, an extension ladder has more steps per foot than a stepladder.

Horizontally: Make sure that the top of the ladder is between 12 and 15 inches from the wall, and make sure it’s fixed firmly in place before climbing up. If you’re using a straight-up ladder, be careful not to lean against the side of the building when standing on the first step. You don’t want to risk falling off if something happens while you are leaning over.

We would recommend getting some training for this kind of thing so you know how to affordably meet UK health and safety regulations.