4 Dangers of Using an Extension Ladder in High Wind

Working with extension ladders, such as double and triple extension ladders can be essential for accessing high places. Especially for tasks such as roofing, window cleaning, or maintenance. However, when the weather takes a turn for the worse, particularly during high winds, it is critically important to avoid using an extension ladder. Below, we outline why this is dangerous and provide safety tips to follow.

The Dangers of High Winds

Lack of Stability

High winds can significantly reduce the stability of an extension ladder, which is primarily designed to provide a stable platform for climbing when placed on a flat, non-slippery surface. However, during strong wind conditions, even the most carefully placed ladder can shift or topple over. The extended height of a triple extension ladder makes it even more prone to wind forces, which can exert lateral pressure, causing the ladder to sway or fall.

Increased Risk of Losing Balance

Working on an elevated platform inherently requires good balance. High winds can easily destabilize not only the ladder but also the person standing on it. The wind may push or pull at you, causing you to lose your balance and fall. This is especially risky when using a triple extension ladder, which, by design, reaches greater heights and leaves little room for error.

Difficulty in Proper Ladder Placement

One of the core principles of ladder safety is correct placement. For example, an extension ladder should always maintain a 1:4 ratio between the base of the ladder and the wall it’s leaning against. Wind can make it difficult to properly place and angle the ladder. Gusts can shift the base, or worse, cause the ladder to come away from the structure it’s leaning on, leading to a fall.

Damage to Ladder Structure

Strong winds can lead to debris or other objects colliding with the ladder. Over time, even lightweight debris can cause wear and tear on the ladder, compromising its structural integrity. For extension ladders, made from materials such as aluminum or fiberglass, the sudden impact can bend or crack the rungs, rails, or locking mechanisms, making them unsafe for future use.

Why Triple Extension Ladders Are More Vulnerable

A triple extension ladder, which consists of three sliding sections to reach extra heights, is even more susceptible to these dangers. Its additional length and the joints between sections provide more points of failure under high wind conditions. The further you extend the ladder, the more surface area is exposed to wind, increasing the risk of the ladder being caught by a gust and knocked over.

Additionally, a triple extension ladder is heavier and more cumbersome to manoeuvre, making it harder to quickly react and adjust to wind shifts compared to smaller ladders.

Safety Tips for Using Ladders in Windy Conditions

Check Weather Conditions

Before setting up an extension ladder, always check the weather forecast. Wind speeds over 20 mph are generally considered too dangerous for working on a ladder. Use weather apps or consult local authorities for accurate wind warnings.

Use Ladder Anchors

If you absolutely must work in moderate winds (which is still not advisable), consider using ladder stabilisers or anchors to keep the ladder securely in place. These tools help minimise movement by securing the ladder to the ground or nearby structures.

Choose the Right Ladder for the Job

Always choose a ladder that is appropriate for the task and conditions. If working in mildly breezy conditions, a shorter ladder like a stepladder, which has a broader base, may provide more stability than a triple extension ladder. However, in strong winds, no ladder is truly safe.

Wait for Better Conditions

The best advice when dealing with high winds is to simply wait for better weather. Safety should always come first, and delaying a job by a day or two is worth it if it avoids the risk of injury.

Conclusion

While extension ladders and triple extension ladders are vital tools for many trades and DIY projects, using them in high winds introduces unnecessary and significant risks. Strong gusts can compromise the ladder’s stability, affect your balance, and even damage the ladder itself. To ensure safety, always avoid using any kind of extension ladder in windy conditions. Instead, plan ahead, check weather conditions, and if necessary, reschedule your work for a safer day. By understanding these dangers, you can avoid accidents and keep yourself and others safe during ladder-related tasks. Always prioritise safety over speed to ensure that your work goes smoothly and without incident. To learn more about safe use of ladders, you can go to the HSE’s website.