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One Slip Can Change Everything: Why Ladder Safety Matters More Than You Think
July 03, 2026
Most people don't climb a ladder expecting an accident.
Whether you're cleaning gutters, painting a wall, installing lights, or completing a construction task, a ladder often feels like a simple tool. But a moment of complacency can have life-changing consequences.
ACC recently shared the story of Auckland tradie Brendan Tourelle, who fell approximately six meters when a ladder slipped while he was working at height. The fall resulted in a serious spinal injury that changed the course of his life.
Reflecting on the incident, Brendan says:
"The truth is it all could have been avoided with one simple safety step: someone holding the ladder for me."
His story is a powerful reminder that ladder safety isn't just about following rules—it's about protecting yourself, your family, and your future.
A Ladder Is Not Always the Best Tool
One of the most common mistakes people make is assuming a ladder is the right piece of equipment for every job.
WorkSafe New Zealand notes that ladders are primarily intended for light-duty, short-duration tasks and do not provide fall protection. When working at height, alternative access solutions such as scaffolding, mobile work platforms, or edge protection may provide a safer option.
Before starting any task, ask:
- Is a ladder the safest option?
- Could the task be completed from ground level?
- Would a scaffold or platform provide a more stable work area?
- How long will I be working at height?
Sometimes the safest ladder decision is choosing not to use a ladder at all.
7 Essential Ladder Safety Checks
Before climbing, run through these simple checks:
1. Choose the Right Ladder
Use a ladder that is suitable for the task, the working height, and the environment. For electrical work, use a non-conductive ladder.
2. Inspect Before Use
Check for:
- Damaged rungs
- Cracked stiles
- Worn feet
- Loose rivets
- Missing safety locks
Damaged ladders should be removed from service immediately.
3. Set Up on Firm Ground
Always place ladders on stable, level ground. Uneven or soft surfaces dramatically increase the risk of slips and tip-overs.
4. Secure the Ladder
WorkSafe recommends securing ladders at both the top and bottom where possible. If securing isn't practical, a second person may provide footing after an appropriate risk assessment.
5. Use the 4:1 Rule
For straight ladders:
- Position the base 1 metre away from the structure for every 4 metres of ladder height.
This provides a safe climbing angle and improves stability.
6. Maintain Three Points of Contact
Always keep:
- Two hands and one foot, or
- Two feet and one hand
In contact with the ladder whenever possible.
7. Don't Overreach
If you need to lean sideways, climb down and reposition the ladder.
A good rule of thumb is to keep your belt buckle or torso centered between the ladder rails while working.
Small Shortcuts Can Have Big Consequences
Brendan's story highlights a reality seen on worksites and around homes every day.
Most serious falls aren't caused by major equipment failures. They happen because someone:
- Didn't secure the ladder.
- Climbed one rung higher than they should.
- Reached a little too far.
- Tried to save time.
- Thought, "I'll only be up here for a minute."
As Brendan puts it:
"DIY injuries aren't just numbers – they're lives upended in an instant. And often these accidents are preventable."
The Easy Access Approach
At Easy Access, we believe the safest outcome starts before anyone leaves the ground.
That means:
- Choosing certified industrial-rated access equipment.
- Assessing whether a ladder is the right solution.
- Following manufacturer instructions.
- Maintaining equipment correctly.
- Taking a few extra moments to set up safely.
A ladder should never be treated as "just a ladder." It's a piece of safety equipment, and the way it's used can have lasting consequences.
Take a Moment Before You Climb
Before your next job, take 30 seconds to stop and ask yourself:
- Is this the safest access option?
- Is my ladder in good condition?
- Is it secured properly?
- Can I maintain three points of contact?
- Am I rushing?
Those few seconds may be the most important part of the entire job.
