Ladders are primary a means of vertical access to a workplace. However they are often used to carry out work and this frequently results in accidents.
Many accidents involving ladders happen during work lasting 30 minutes or less.
Generally, ladders should be considered as access equipment and not used as a work platform.
Generally, ladders should be considered as access equipment and not used as a work platform.
The following are situations where a ladder must not be used as a working platform.
When 2 hands are need to do the work.
The work area is large.
Where the equipment or materials used are large or awkward.
Excessive height.
Working for a long duration.
When the ladder cannot be secured or made stable.
When the ladder cannot be protected from vehicles etc.
In adverse weather conditions.
When working on fragile surfaces.
When the ladder is defective or painted.
Before using a ladder to work from, consider whether it is the right equipment for the job. Ladders are only suitable as a workplace for light work and short duration, and for the large majority of activities a scaffold or MEWP (Mobile Elevated Work Platform) will be more suitable and safer.
If you have to use a ladder then;
CARRY OUT A PRE-USE INSPECTION and MAKE SURE THE LADDER IS IN GOOD CONDITION.
LADDERS MUST BE LONG ENOUGH TO PROVIDE HAND AND FOOT SUPPORT IN ALL ITS POSITIONS IT IS TO BE USED IN.
IF PERSONNEL HAVE TO WORK FROM LADDERS THEY MUST HAVE AT LEAST FOUR (4) FREE RUNGS ABOVE THE POSITION OF THE FEET.
LADDERS MUST EXTEND 1 METRE MINIMUM ABOVE THE LANDING PLACE.
LADDERS MUST BE POSITIONED FOR SAFE ACCESS AND OUT OF THE WAY OF VEHICLES.
LADDERS MUST BE POSITIONED ON A HORIZONTAL NON SLIP SURFACE.
LADDERS MUST BE PROPERLY TIED NEAR THE TOP EVEN IF ONLY FOR A SHORT TIME.
KEEP BOTH HANDS FREE TO GRIP THE LADDER WHEN CLIMBING OR DESCENDING.
ONLY ONE PERSON ON THE LADDER AT ANY TIME.
BEWARE OF GREASY OR WET RUNGS AS WELL AS USING THE CORRECT FOOT WEAR.
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