The DIY Mistake That’s Riskier Than You Think

It’s a familiar weekend story. You grab your tools, sketch out a quick plan, and tell yourself, “This will only take a few minutes.” Whether it’s clearing the gutters, changing a lightbulb, or touching up a coat of paint, plenty of DIY jobs start with good intentions — and end with a slip, a near-miss, or worse.

The common culprit? Poor ladder use.

It might not seem like a big deal, but how you reach those higher spots makes all the difference between a job well done and a trip to the emergency room. The problem isn’t just unstable surfaces or dodgy technique — it often comes down to using the wrong gear entirely. The smart move is to start with the right equipment, like the range of safe ladders at Sydney Tools, built specifically to keep you steady while working off the ground.

Here’s what every DIYer should know before taking that next step up.

Why DIYers Get It Wrong

Ladder injuries are one of the most common DIY-related accidents in Australia. It’s not tradies or professionals making the mistakes — it’s regular people at home, rushing through a job or relying on whatever’s in the shed.

Some of the most common mistakes include:

• Using a chair or stool instead of a proper ladder
• Choosing a ladder that’s too short, and climbing dangerously high
• Setting up on sloped or uneven ground
• Stretching too far to one side instead of repositioning
• Forgetting to lock the ladder’s hinges or spreaders

Each of these errors can lead to serious injury — and they’re all avoidable with a bit of planning.

How To Choose The Right Ladder

Not all ladders are created equal. The safest ladder for the job depends on what you’re doing and where you’re doing it. Ask yourself:

• How high do I need to go? Measure it properly so you don’t end up climbing the top step.
• How long will I be up there? If it’s more than a few minutes, comfort and balance matter.
• Do I need to carry tools? A platform ladder might be the better choice.
• Is the ground flat and stable? You might need adjustable feet or a multi-position ladder.

Common ladder types and what they’re best for:

• Step ladders: Good for indoor jobs like replacing globes or painting walls
• Extension ladders: Best for outdoor jobs like roof work or gutter cleaning
• Platform ladders: Great for longer tasks that require extra stability
• Multi-position ladders: Versatile for changing tasks and uneven ground

Safe Ladder Setup Basics

Even the best ladder won’t help if you set it up wrong. Before your foot leaves the ground, double-check:

• Surface: Make sure the base is level, dry, and free of debris
• Locks: Fully extend and lock all hinges or spreaders
• Angle: For extension ladders, use the 4-to-1 rule (1 metre out for every 4 metres up)
• Positioning: Place the ladder close to the work area — don’t lean or stretch
• Hands and feet: Maintain three points of contact at all times (e.g., two feet and one hand)

Also, never carry tools in your hands while climbing. Use a tool belt or rope-and-bucket system to get gear to the top.

Signs You Should Stop And Reassess

Sometimes, the safest thing to do is to pause and rethink. If you notice any of the following, stop:

• You’re wobbling or losing balance
• The ladder shifts or sinks
• You’re tempted to reach “just a little further”
• You’re standing higher than recommended
• You’re starting to feel tired or dizzy

Your safety is more important than saving five minutes.

Working Smarter, Not Riskier

The appeal of DIY is obvious — it’s cost-effective, satisfying, and gets things done on your schedule. But it shouldn’t come at the cost of safety. By choosing the right ladder and setting it up correctly, you cut out most of the risk without cutting corners on the job itself. So the next time you think, “It’s just a quick fix, I’ll grab a chair” — pause. Take a moment to gear up properly. Because in DIY, staying on solid footing is the best way to stay in control.