Staying safe while putting up Christmas decorations

It’s nearly November and the festive season is almost upon us. Are you putting up Christmas decorations? If so, here are a few pointers to keep you safe while working at height.

Use the right equipment

You don’t have to be far off the ground to be working at height; injuries can happen from any distance. Make sure you use suitable equipment rather than balancing on wobbly furniture. If using ladders, carry out pre-use checks and ensure you know how to use one safely – the HSE have a useful guide on the safe use of ladders and stepladders – or, if you’re not sure, speak to us about access platform hire, and we can advise on the best option for you.

Ensure you have the correct training

To use any work at height equipment, including ladders, you need to be competent, so have had the relevant training and understand how to use them correctly.

For mobile elevated work platforms, IPAF is the training to look out for – see our range of courses. Or, book an operated hire and we’ll send one of our experienced operators to work our equipment for you.

Wear appropriate safety gear

What’s appropriate gear depends on what decorations you are putting where. If decorating your home or office, you may only need suitable footwear. For outdoor decorations and working at height, you will likely need more, for example, boots, hard hat, gloves, and safety harnesses.

Never overreach 

Leaning or overreaching to put up your decorations can result in injury and increases the risk of falling from height. Ensure the equipment you choose provides the access you need to be able to put up decorations without having to stretch.

Avoid carrying heavy equipment up ladders 

Ladders require three points of contact when climbing and working, so think about how to lift decorations into place. MEWPs provide a stable platform to work from and leave you with two hands free for work. They are also easy to manoeuvre into position.

Our hire fleet is here to help

We have a range of access platforms available for self-drive and operated hire. They can reach even the most awkward of spots, inside and out, in quiet areas or the middle of busy towns and next to roads. Get in touch if you would like to know more and don’t forget to book in soon – we book up fast this time of year!