To an outsider, it might sound really absurd but every individual working in the insurance industry knows the importance of ladders in an adjuster’s profession. An inherent part of a claims adjuster’s ‘gear’, roof and roof shingle damage claims due to hail, storms or other natural or man-made calamities require an inspection of the roof in great detail. Having a ladder helps adjusters climb on top of roofs and have a thorough inspection of the property in order to write more accurate scoping reports.

Having said that, using a ladder also has certain ‘pitfalls’ and the careless use of ladders is not unknown to claims adjusters. According to this ISHN report, each year, around 500,000 people are involved in ladder-related injuries out of which 300 prove to be fatal.

Given the high number of unfortunate incidents around the use of ladders in homes and in the workplace, how should claims adjusters go about minimizing the risks when it comes to roof inspection. Since a major part of an adjuster’s work revolves around the use of ladders, we have devised some of the best ways to make sure that claims adjusters have a safe work environment. Let’s have a look:

1. Choosing the Right Ladder:

Choosing the right ladder is a crucial step towards safety. Knowing the different kinds of ladders available in the market and using the best one for a claims adjuster makes all the difference. There are three types of ladders used in the industry, extension ladders, telescoping ladders, and folding ladders. Keep in mind that the ladder you choose must be OSHA compliant. Make sure to not cheap out or bargain when it comes to safety.

2. Inspecting the Ladder Before Use:

It is necessary to inspect your ladder before using it for an assignment. Make sure it is not coated with grease or oil and doesn’t slip under your grip. While setting up the ladder, make sure that your base is not slippery and the ladder is positioned sturdily before climbing. Keeping areas around the ladder clear is the next important thing to maintain. Ensure that the angle of the ladder in use is one-quarter of its entire length. If you are using an extension ladder, secure it at the top and the bottom.

3. Climbing Done Right:

When climbing, make sure to use the three-point method where at least two hands and one foot or one hand and both feet are always on the ladder. If you are using an extension or telescoping ladder, do not extend the ladder while you are climbing. Do not climb past the second-topmost rung of the ladder. Face the ladder while coming down and climb down to the bottom-most rung before stepping away from the ladder. Additionally, keep in mind the total weight that the ladder can handle. If you have a tool kit around your waist, make sure it does not exceed the weight limit that the ladder supports.

4. Regular Servicing and Replacement:

Adjusters get assignments in all kinds of weather. Come hail or storm, adjusters are out there going up roofs, inspecting damages and collecting evidence. Normal wear and tear of equipment are obvious but when it comes to ladders, one has to be extra cautious. Regular checkup of rungs and all the extensions of a ladder is necessary. If you use a foldable ladder, making sure the seat is sturdy and can withstand your weight from time to time is another way to ensure optimum safety.

5. Using the Right Foot-ware:

While your ladder may be safe and every precaution that can be thought of has been applied and instated, it is important to assess the kind of foot-ware you use when inspecting roofs. Using the right shoes like the Merrell Moab 2 or Cougar Paws will give you superior grip and correct ankle support to inspect all kinds of roofs.

Keeping these pointers in mind, roof inspections will become much easier for any adjuster and will ensure minimum accident likeliness in any scenario that an adjuster faces.