LADDERS AND STEPS

LADDERS AND STEPS

BACKGROUND INFORMATION

Ladders are best used as a means of getting access to a workplace. They should only be used as a workplace for short term work. They are only suitable for light work. More than half the accidents involving ladders happens because the ladder was not prevented from falling or slipping or the correct ladder/steps where not used

HAZARDS

• Falling from height (persons and materials)
• Overloading ladder
• Insecured ladders
• Tools falling
• Failure of the ladder
• Steps placed on uneven ground
• Third parties eg public interaction

HEALTH AND SAFETY POINTS

• Is there a better way of accessing the work eg mobile work platform, aluminium scaffold tower, etc.
• Ensure the work can be reached without stretching. Do not lean out from ladder move it
• Ensure there are good hand holds available
• Make sure the ladder is angled to minimize the risk of slipping outwards the general rule of thumb is 1 out for every 4 up
• Make sure the top of the ladder rests on a solid surface. Ladder should not rest on fragile or other insecure materials such as cement sheets, plastic guttering, etc
• Make sure both feet of the ladder are on firm footing and cannot slip. Not placed on loose bricks or packing
• If a ladder is more than 3 meters long or used as a means to and from a workplace it must be properly lashed
• If a ladder can not be lashed a second person must foot the ladder while it is being used (this rule applies while the ladder is being lashed)
• Ensure that light tools are carried in a tool belt to allow both hands are free for climbing
• Never use a makeshift ladder

• Do not use defective ladders, mark and report them to your supervisor
• Check ladders to see if the stiles are damaged, buckled or warped, no rungs are cracked or missing, that all reinforcing bars are in place (1 in 5)
• Do not use painted ladders as paint may hide faults
• Ladders must be tied at middle to control excessive whip were required
• Ensure ladders are numbered and checked on Maintenance Schedule
• Never use ladders that have been painted this hides defects
• Ladders must be erected the right way up pole ladders are to be reinforced at least every fifth rung by wire bond to the underside of rungs
• Do not carry loads on a ladder use a hoist
• When using steps ensure ground is stable and even
• When using steps ensure they are fully extended and supports fully engaged
• Erect suitable barrier to ensure safety of others and the user

QUSTIONS

• What is the general rule of thumb for ladders?
• What must you do if a ladder is over 3 meters long?
• What causes more than half the accidents involving ladders?

SAFETY REMINDER

Never use a makeshift or defective ladder. Always ensure that a ladder is properly lashed or footed bedore you climb