Working with Ladders, Step-ladders and Step-Stools

Working with Ladders, Step-ladders and Step-Stools

Ladders can be used for low-risk, short duration activities that do not require higher level fall protection.

As a guide ladders and step ladders should be used for no more than 30 minutes.

Using ladders

Training is required in the safe use of ladders and users must be deemed competent to be able to use the equipment safely.

Pre-Use Checks

A pre-use check of ladders should be carried out:

By the user
At the beginning of the working day
After something has changed e.g. if the ladder has been dropped or damaged, moved from a dirty to a clean area etc.

Items to check

The Stiles – ensure they are not bent or damaged, as the ladder could buckle or collapse
The Feet – if they are missing, worn or damaged the ladder could slip. Also check the ladder feet if moving from soft/dirty ground to smooth, solid surfaces to make sure that there is nothing embedded to prevent the feet from making contact with the ground
The Rungs – if they are bent, worn, missing or loose the ladder could fall
Any Locking Mechanisms – if they are bent of the fixings are worn or damaged the ladder could collapse. Ensure that any locking bars are engaged.
Stepladder platform – if it is split of buckled the ladder could become unstable or collapse
Steps or treads on stepladders – if they are contaminated they could be slippery, if the fixings are loose on steps, they could collapse

☝ Record the outcomes of any pre-use checks in the ladder booking out ledger.

Using ladders safely

Simple precautions to minimise the risk of a fall:

Leaning Ladders 👇

Only carry light materials
Don’t overreach
Make sure the ladder is long enough or high enough for the task
Don’t overload the ladder, check the pictogram or information on the ladder
Make sure the ladder is at 75°
Always grip ladders and face the ladder rungs while climbing or descending
Don’t move or extend ladders while standing on the rungs
Don’t work off the top three rungs and make sure the ladder extends at least 1m above where you are working
Avoid holding items when climbing
Maintain three points of contact when climbing (one hand and two feet)

Stepladders 👇

Check all four stepladder feet are in contact with the ground and the steps are level
Only carry light materials and tools
Don’t overreach
Don’t stand or work on the top three steps
Ensure any locking devices are engaged
Try and position the stepladder to face the work activity and not side on
Try to avoid work that imposes a side loading
Maintain three points of contact at the working position (two feet and one hand)

HSE - Safety Goodwe