Ladders remain a constant subject of inquiry and although ladders are not banned in the workplace, they should not be the first choice for any working at height task. Always think about using a scaffold, platform or mechanical lifting option. Ladders should be used for low-risk, short-duration tasks (measured in minutes) and users should always ensure they follow the advice given below.
Never use a damaged or homemade ladder – as advisors we see all manner of repairs and can only advise scrapping any ladder we see in such poor condition. Ensure you maintain a written record of checks and inspections on any ladder.
The check should include:
Stiles – make sure they are not bent or damaged, as the ladder could buckle or collapse.
Feet – if they are missing, worn or damaged, the ladder could slip. Also check the ladder feet when moving from soft/dirty ground (e.g., dug soil, loose sand/stone, a dirty workshop) to a smooth, solid surface (e.g., paving slabs), to make sure the actual feet and not the debris (e.g., soil, chippings, or embedded stones) are making contact with the ground.
Rungs – if they are bent, worn, missing or loose, the ladder could fail.
Locking mechanisms – does the mechanism work properly? Are components or fixings bent, worn or damaged? If so, the ladder could collapse. Ensure any locking bars are fully engaged.
Stepladder platform – if it is split or buckled, the ladder could become unstable or collapse.
Steps / treads – If they are contaminated, they could be slippery; if the fixings are loose on the steps, they could collapse.
If you spot any of the above defects, do not use the ladder and inform the person in charge of the work.
When using the ladder make sure the ladder angle is at the safest position to work from – you should use the 1-in-4 rule. This is where the ladder should be one space or unit of measurement out for every four spaces or units up (a 75° angle).
- Make sure the footing is secure, do not use boxes or planks, and make sure the surface is clean and not slippery.
- Do not place the top of the ladder on a fragile surface such as a fibre cement or a PVC gutter.
- Adhere to the 1 to 4 ratio as illustrated in the above image when placing the ladder.
- The top should extend to at least 1 metre above the landing place or the highest rung in use unless there is a suitable handhold to provide support. Extending ladders should overlap by at least three rungs.
- Ensure the ladder is secured by tying both stiles to prevent slipping and the rotation of the ladder, or by using a suitable device. Using someone to foot a ladder should only be used as a last resort.
- Always maintain 3 points of contact and do not overstretch.
Further information can be found at: https://www.hse.gov.uk/work-at-height/ladders/types-of-ladder.htm
For help and advice please contact our Health and Safety department on 01981590514.
