Drywall stilts are sturdy metal stilts with wide bases. They are designed for allowing a person to stand a foot or more taller than normal when hanging and finishing drywall on ceilings and when working around the tops of walls. They allow workers to safely work on projects that would otherwise require a ladder. Even though drywall stilts are safer than ladders in many circumstances, there are still special precautions that you must take to avoid serious injury.
Check the Stilts
Inspecting your drywall stilts for signs of damage, wear or loose bolts before each use can prevent serious injury, according to the Hengda Industrial Group. Check each wing nut and assembly bolt for proper tightness and examine the springs for wear or disconnection. If anything is worn or broken, don't use the stilts until you can repair them. Springs can fly loose while you are walking if they are not secure, leading to a sudden collapse of the stilt. Worn stilts may work, but they will put more strain and stress on the operator and can lead to overexertion injuries. Regularly lubricate and dissemble your stilts to give them a full safety check.
Follow the Weight Limits
All stilts, including drywall stilts, have some form of a weight limit. When the operator exceeds this limit, either naturally or by carrying heavy objects, the stilts can collapse without warning or become permanently damaged. Quality drywall stilts should support at least 230 pounds, according to the Plastering Tools website. Heavier operators should choose stilts that are specifically designed to handle their weight plus that of the drywall and tools. If you must hold a heavy object or tool that will put you over the weight limit as you work on a high piece of drywall, use a scaffold or heavy-duty ladder instead of stilts.
Stay Balanced
Moving too quickly, bending over to pick up a tool, or trying to adjust the stilts while you are wearing them can cause you to become unbalanced and fall over. Short, even steps are the safest way to walk in drywall stilts, the Home Improvement Guide 101 website suggests. Broad turns allow a person on drywall stilts to turn around without losing her balance. Having another person on hand to hand you tools and help you out of the stilts is very useful. It's easy to tip over while you are attempting to undo the straps of the stilts, especially if they do not have extra-wide bases.
Clear the Floor
While stepping on a single nut or bolt might not normally cause you to fall over, it can do so while you are walking in drywall stilts. The University of Florida recommends cleaning the ground thoroughly where you will be working on stilts, even of small pieces of debris that may not seem like they could trip you. Cords, wires and loose piles of materials can also be dangerous; clear them away or secure them, and always be aware of their presence and locations. Using drywall stilts only on smooth, dry, level surfaces like concrete or wood flooring also reduces the risk of slipping or falling.
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