What work should I be using ladders for?

Each issue the HSE shares one of the most popular questions it has been asked on the HSE infoline the previous month

Contrary to the ‘myth,’ HSE considers ladders perfectly suitable for many types of work. If the risks have been assessed and the work is low risk and of short duration and the use of other access equipment is not justified, then it should be fine to use a ladder.

The Work at Height Regulations (2005) (www.hse.gov.uk/falls/ regulations.htm) put a duty on employers to assess the risks, plan and supervise all workers who work at height. Providing workers with equipment that is safe, in good working order and right for the job is a legal requirement

Falls from height remain the most common cause of workplace fatality, with 37 deaths in 2009/10 alone and over 5000 major injuries – a significant proportion as a result of using the wrong access equipment for the job or the ladders being in poor condition.

Birmingham City Council recently prosecuted a company for providing unsafe and unfit equipment for their workers. The council confiscated nine ladders and the business was fined for putting the safety of their staff safety at risk.

If you are unsure which access equipment to use, there is a useful tool at: www.hse.gov.uk/falls/wait More general information on ladders and working at height can be found at www.hse.gov.uk/falls/ladders.htm

HSE INFOLINE

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