Using A Ladder On Stairs

Many professionals suggest that you should never use a ladder on stairs. But, truth to tell, you can’t buy every type of ladder for a specific task.

Well, we heard you. In this article, we will guide you about the safe use of ladders on the stairs. Looking for a quick answer? Well, here is the information we don’t want you to miss!

Place the ladder on an even surface. For additional safety, use a platform or rely on the shift scaffolding technique. Climb on carefully and ensure to maintain a three-point contact.

Apart from whether it is safe or not, we have to use ladders on the stairs for various tasks. So, if you want to use it for paint or a quick bulb fix, we got you covered.

Is using ladders on stairs safe?

As long as you follow the safety guidelines, it is safe to use leaning ladders on the staircase. You can also use DIY methods or scaffolding methods. We strongly advise you never compromise on the ladder safety guide while using them on stairs.

How to use ladders on stairs?

In a nutshell, it mainly depends on the type of staircase layout. Using the combination ladder with platform for the staircase is considered the safest. But, ironically, this is not the case!

There are so many problems with it. For a starter, placing the platform can be challenging.So we end up with only the three safest ladders on the stairs hack.

Three Best Ways To Use Them

1. The Helping Hand Way
2. Shift Scaffolding Technique
3. Using Ladder Platform

Regardless of the way, I strongly believe that one should never use a ladder on the stairs without any human helping hand or support.Let us give you a detailed overview of every hack. So you can decide the best for yourself.

1. The Helping Hand Way

It is the easiest yet most difficult way. You need to rely on the physical power of your assistant or friend. Indeed, it is a budget-friendly hack. 

What Do You Need?

All you need is a regular learning ladder and the help of your friend.

How To Execute It?

1. Place the ladder on an even surface.
2. Secure it with the safety belt.
3. Place the brick under the stilts if they’re uneven.
4. Ask your friend to hold it tightly while you climb on it.

The Limitations

This is a cheap DIY hack that can only be used with the help of an assistant. You can only use it for quick bulb fixing. Unfortunately, this hack is not suitable for prolonged use. And no matter what happens, never try to lean while using a helping hand way.

2. Shift Scaffolding Technique

The shift scaffolding technique is quite old in industrial and construction usage. This way is best for the spiral or box staircase.

What Do You Need?

You’ll need two ladders and a timber loft for connecting both ladders. Keep in mind that this is only safe for the overhanging walls.

How To Execute This?

1. Adjust the leaning ladder against the wall, making a safe ladder angle. 
2. Place the step stool on the other side of it.
3. Connect both at the same point using timber or commercial wooden sheets.
4. Slowly and carefully climb on it without any hurry.

Keep in mind that even though this hack is suitable, it is not completely safe. 

The Limitations:

This way is perfect for painting and changing the chandelier over the looby or staircase. The weight is evenly distributed, and you have additional support too.It is best to never lean or try to overreach while using the shift scaffolding technique.

3. Ladder Safety Platform

Ladder safety platforms are the first choice of professionals. It is entirely safe to use. The cherry on the top is that you don’t have to rely on additional support.

What Do You Need?

You need to buy either a ladder aide or ladder leveller for stairs. A ladder aide can cost you around £200 to £250.

How To Use Ladder Aide For Stairs?

1. First, you need to assemble the aide over the stabilizer.
2. Ensure to tighten all of its screws.
3. Then, you need to fix the step leveller against the stair step.
4. Place your ladder on the aide.
5. Slowly start climbing over it.

The Limitation:

Speaking of myself, I am not a big fan of aides or ladder levellers. There is no chance of trembling or leaning.Even though you can use it swiftly for painting. But being a ladder professional, I suggest you ensure additional human support.

Things To Keep In Mind While Using A Ladder On Stairs

Every year 515 ladder injury cases are reported in the UK. One of the main potential reasons is not using them properly.

Here are some safety tips you should always follow:

• Ensure that the ladder is made of sturdy material and has an EN131 class rating.
• Always place it with an accurate angle.
• Don’t rush or tremble while climbing on it.
• Never compromise on the weight limit.
• Do not carry a lot of items with you.
• You can never lean while using a ladder on stairs under any circumstances.

Before you place your ladder on the platform, make sure to follow the ladder safety inspection checklist.

Wrapping It Up!

Contrary to popular belief, you can use a ladder on the stairs. But you need to be very careful and follow the safety guidelines.The shift scaffolding technique is the best way to use a ladder on the staircase. 

If you prefer the ladder aide or step levellers, then you can never lean or tremble while using them.Being a professional, I strongly suggest you ensure that someone holds the ladder for you while you climb over it.

Keep in mind that these hacks are only quick fixes and are not suitable for prolonged use.We hope that this article helps you to use the ladder against the wall. Well, in the meantime be happy and keep on chasing your dreams.