6 Reasons why gutter cleaning is dangerous
- Working at height
- Ladder Training / Experience
- Unsuitable equipment
- Wildlife
- Bacteria/Infection
- Electrocution
Working at height is dangerous!
The first reason why gutter cleaning is dangerous is simply because working at height is the single biggest killer in the construction industry. Ladders are particularly dangerous, and are responsible for most deaths in the construction industry.
Using a ladder to access the gutter is dangerous!
The risk of falling from a ladder dramatically increases when the user/operator does not have sufficient training, and/or has a lack of experience using ladders and ladder safety equipment. When using a ladder to clean out gutters, the risk of falling increases further, as gutter cleaning tools and a bucket are required, which can make climbing and using ladders more difficult.
Some people experience dizziness when ascending ladders, Rain Gutter Solutions say “Some people can be acutely affected by heights and losing balance on a high ladder is a very dangerous situation.“
Many homeowners do not have a suitable ladder and ladder safety equipment to allow them to access the roofline and clean out the gutters safety. Old untested ladders pose a real risk to the untrained eye.
It’s worth reading the safe use of ladders and stepladders guide written be the Health and Safety Executive before you consider using ladders to clean your gutters.
As many falls from ladders are from user error, sometimes falls from ladders can be caused by other people, the weather and even wildlife.
This brings us onto the second reason why gutter cleaning is dangerous. Other people, children and pets can easily knock ladders causing the user to lose balance and fall if not tied off and isolated appropriately.
Birds that may be nesting in the eves could be spooked and fly out if disturbed while you are cleaning out the gutters which can startle and knock you off balance while working on a ladder.
The same can be said for bees and wasps nests which may not be obvious until disturbed. Like birds, wasps also tend to nest in the eves and enter between gap in the soffit boards. You can learn how to destroy wasp nests here
Cleaning gutters without personal protective equipment is dangerous!
The next risk involved with gutter cleaning may not be obvious, but the risk is high, and if it happens, it could be extremely dangerous. Gutters can contain unpleasant debris, crawling with a soup of bacteria. Bird poop, dead birds and insects, rotting leaves and vegetation are just some of the everyday things that are part of the slurry in your gutters. Exposing yourself to this is not recommended without suitable personal protective equipment, such as gloves and a mask. Always be careful not to cut your hands while cleaning out gutters and never clean gutters where existing cuts or grazes are present. Bacteria and germs from the gutter debris may enter through open wounds and cause nasty infections that could lead to more serious health problems. Tetanus is a serious infection affecting the muscles and nervous system and can cause serious breathing problems and can ultimately be fatal. Tetanus is caused by an infection with the bacterium Clostridium tetani, which is commonly found in soil, saliva, dust, and manure. The bacteria generally enter through a break in the skin such as a cut or puncture wound by a contaminated object.
Finally, The Happy Roof Company say “Coming in contact with electrical wiring while cleaning out gutters, whether it’s by accident or in the case of trying to prevent a fall, can be extremely dangerous.“
It’s important to check for overhead wires, electrical wires running across external walls and even electrical wires that might be running in your gutters from CCTV systems etc…
Summary
Gutter cleaning is dangerous full stop!
We always recommend seeking a gutter cleaning expert with the right tools and equipment, knowledge and expertise to clean out your gutters safety. Uk Gutters say “It is necessary that those employed to complete the work are experienced and hold the appropriate qualifications”
If you do decide to clean your gutters yourself, we strongly advise you use the correct tools and equipment, wear appropriate PPE and ensure you have somebody competent to assist you.
You have made all necessary points and tips. Thanks for this good post.
Gutter cleaning should be taking so important for our own safety itself. With this post i recommend seeking a gutter cleaning expert with the right tools and equipment, knowledge and expertise to clean out your gutters safety. Thanks for thus protective post.
Soc more reason hiring a professional is the best bet. Dont just look at the money but their skill and your well being
There are dangers you can encounter cleaning the gutters. So be more careful next time . Health is wealth
The idea of cleaning ones gutter could be more dangerous as it seems, thats why it is best to employ the services of a professional. Better safe than sorry.
I believe it would be best to employ the services of a professional when it comes to cleaning the gutters, they are full of experience. Better to be safe than sorry.
I think this is a good summary.
Ladder and heights – what a way to die! The use of ladder for cleaning gutters is dangerous. Therefore, get cleaning tools!??
A word is enough for the wise – so they say. I will want you to get experts so as to avoid being endangered cleaning the gutter. Nice tip
I strongly advise against cleaning gutters without protective equipment. It can lead to horrible injuries.
This is a job best left to the professionals. Doing it a lone seems quite dangerous.
I am generally scared of heights. I doubt I would ever clean the gutters myself haha.
Being scared of heights is the instinctual way of keeping you safe.
The idea of using a ladder really scares me. Gutter cleaning sure is a dangerous undertaking.
Thanks for laying out the dangers associated with gutter cleaning. I wish more people could read this and be more informed.
Many people think they know it all and try to do everything by themselves. Little do they know the danger they may be putting themselves in.
I would never clean my gutters by myself. I always have a trained professional do it for me.
A very wise decision.
Many people opt to clean their gutters by themselves in a bid to save money. Cheap really is expensive.
What a fantastic comment!
I had no idea that gutter cleaning involved so much. So thankful I bumped into your article!
What I fear most about cleaning gutters is an electrical shock. I would never do it myself!
Not too long ago, an amateur got seriously injured during gutter cleaning..I guess he didn’t follow safety rules
Thanks for sharing..a lot of people will find this useful
people, children and pets can easily knock ladders causing the user to lose balance and fall if not tied off and isolated appropriately. It’s important to check for overhead wires, electrical wires running across external walls.
Most people ignore how dangerous gutter cleaning actually is and overestimate their ability. Let a gutter cleaner do this for you.
If you are still determined to go through with your rain gutter cleaning by yourself, make sure to take precautions against these 6 common dangers.
Get a good gutter cleaner to maintain your gutters.
Gutters themselves are very useful part of the building. You can call the gutter professionals to see you through