A motorist in Blaenau Gwent was treated by paramedics earlier this week after some ladders came loose from a van and struck their car.

Summer is the perfect time to enjoy your outdoor space. Whether you're firing up the barbecue, relaxing on the patio with a good book or enjoying the long evenings outside with family and friends, now's the season to get outside and make the most of your garden.

A recent case reported by the Health & Safety Executive (HSE) has highlighted the very real dangers of improper ladder use.

Back in December 2023, a labourer in the West Midlands suffered serious injuries after falling from a ladder that had been placed across a stairwell opening. Following an HSE investigation, the Staffordshire-based construction firm that appointed the worker has been fined £16,000 (plus £4,000 in costs). On top of this, the company's director – who was working nearby when the incident occurred – has been fined £2,000 (plus £1,386 in costs).

A recent news report highlights the danger of using cheap, poorly-made telescopic ladders.

Photo credit: Mark Hunter (licensed under CC BY 2.0)

According to this Metro article, an electrician suffered broken ribs after falling around 15 feet onto a concrete floor when his telescopic ladder reportedly snapped in half. The ladder had been purchased online via Amazon.

Incidents like this are a serious reminder that when you're working at height, the quality of your ladder really matters.

Combination ladders are highly versatile tools that can transform between a stepladder, extension ladder and stairwell ladder using locking mechanisms.

PICTURED: Krause Light Trade Combination Ladder

This versatility makes combination ladders a little more complex to set up than standard, single-purpose ladders, but don’t fret! This blog will teach you how to use a combination ladder and break it down into easy steps.