Ladder Safety

So, why are there so many ladder related accidents?

Ladders have been around for almost 10,000 years and are commonplace items to virtually every home and workplace. This, and their simplicity, generates the false impression that ladder work requires no special knowledge or skills - when in fact the opposite is true. Anyone who uses a ladder should be trained and have knowledge about ‘working at height’ to ensure they’re equipped about the range of risks involved and the precautions necessary to prevent injury.

Prevent accident or injury when working at height^?

By following a few important steps, you can help safe guard against any ladder accidents or personal injury when working at height;

Risk assessment

A risk assessment should firstly be carried out to decipher if a ladder is the most suitable piece of equipment for the task in hand. As a guide, if your task would require staying up a leaning ladder or stepladder for more than 30 minutes at a time, it is recommended that you consider alternative equipment. You should only use ladders in situations where they can be used safely, e.g. where the ladder will be level and stable.

Competent/trained user

Following the risk assessment, if the ladder is the most appropriate piece of equipment, the ladder operator must be competent, i.e. have knowledge on how to use the equipment safely.

Choosing the correct ladder

Using a ladder for purposes not anticipated in its design is a common cause of falls. Therefore make sure the ladder you use is suitable for the planned task. (Safety regulations give specific measurement requirements.)

Inspecting the ladder 

(If you spot any ladder defects, don’t use the ladder)

- Check the stiles to ensure they’re not bent or damaged
- Check that the feet are not worn, damaged or even missing
- Check that the rungs are not bent, worn, missing
- Check that any locking mechanisms fully engage and are not bent or damaged
- Check the stepladder platform is not split or buckled
- Check the steps or treads on stepladders – if they are contaminated they could be slippery

Setting up a ladder

Once you've carried out your pre-use checks and established that it's in good condition, it's important to know where and how to set up the ladder, and where and how not to. Check for overhead electrical wires, that the area around the base and top of the ladder are clear of debris, tools and other objects. If you are using a ladder in high traffic or public areas, set up suitable barricades. If you're using a ladder in a doorway, lock the doors shut.