- 1). Spread a step ladder apart so that the folding separator bars are fully extended. Place all four legs firmly on a flat, stable and clean surface.
- 2). Set the ladder near the work area so you don't have to lean or reach upward or sideways while on the ladder. Move the ladder, if necessary, to obtain the safest position to work from.
- 3). Climb on the ladder steps only. Avoid climbing on the support bars at the back of the step ladder.
- 4). Climb as far as the second step from the top of the ladder, if necessary. Take care not to stand on the top step or the top surface of the ladder, as doing so can disrupt your balance, making the ladder top heavy.
- 5). Place necessary tools or equipment on the holding shelf of the step ladder before you ascend. Avoid carrying items up the ladder.
- 6). Release folding support bar latches. Fold the step ladder fully. Take care not to pinch your hand or fingers between the support bars.
- 1). Raise the ladder and rest the top against a stable surface. Pull the bottom of the ladder out one foot for every four feet the ladder height is extended.
- 2). Keep both hands and feet free to climb the ladder. Arrange for a sturdy rope, forklift truck or conveyor to lift materials to a roof or other high work areas.
- 3). Have someone hold the bottom of the ladder in place, if you need to step from the ladder onto a roof or other surface.
- 4). Release the extension portion of the ladder slowly and carefully to bring the extension down to ground level. Fasten the two ladder sections together before moving the ladder.
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