Safe use of ladders

Staff should minimise work from ladders whenever possible but if required to access high levels a suitable ladder is to be used and the following principles followed.

1)    Step Ladders

• Do not use metal ladders near electrical source
• Check ladder for damage such as warping, rust, corrosion, loose or cracked rungs or hinges or missing rivets
• Place on firm surface and use in fully open position only

2)    Straight Ladders

• Check for damage such as warping, rust, corrosion, loose or cracked rungs or hinges or missing rivets
• Do not use metal ladders near electrical source
• Ensure ladder is fitted with rubber (or similar non-slip material) feet to prevent slipping.
• Use ladder with 1 metre overhang above stabilising wall
• One quarter (1/4) of working length of ladder should be situated from base of wall

3)    Lifting & Carrying

a)    An individual can carry ladders up to 1.5 metres in length

b)    Two people are required to carry ladders over 5 metres in length. These people should

• Lift on a count
• Carry on same shoulder
• Face in the same direction
• Walk in step

4)    Erecting a Ladder

• Check for a suitable surface
• Situate the foot of the ladder ¼ the working length from the base of the wall
• Clear overhead obstructions
• One person should lift the ladder while other person stabilises base of ladder
• Raise extension ladders similarly to 900 then extend ladder
• Large ladders should not be extended in windy conditions
• One person should hold and stabilise ladder
• Tie off top of ladder to secure position

5)    Positioning a Ladder

• Avoid wet or oily floors, clean if necessary
• Never use boxes, drums or blocks to gain extra height
• Never ‘walk’ the ladder whilst someone is standing on it, descend and reposition.
• Electrical wiring should be carried out using wooden or fibreglass ladders[1]
• Never place a ladder against pipes where damage may occur
• Never rest the top of the ladder against objects that may move
• If placing ladder in front of doorway make sure it is locked or blocked

6)    Working on a Ladder

• Make sure shoes are clean, well fitting, enclosed and slip-resistant
• When ascending or descending use both hands and maintain three points of contact at all times and stay in the centre of the ladder as you climb
• When ascending or descending face the ladder
• Only one person at a time should use a straight ladder
• Only climb to the second rung from the top of a step ladder or the third rung from the top of an extension ladder
• Raise required tools using a handline or wear a tool belt
• Do not over reach – work within arm’s reach only
• If both hands are used a safety belt or harness should be used along with hard hat if necessary

7)    Scaffolding

• To be erected by qualified personnel only
• The height of scaffolding should never be more than three (3) times the base dimension
• Never move with people on scaffolding
• Lock scaffolding when rolled into position
• Do not lean over side
• Do not work alone on scaffolding
• Always follow manufacturer’s directions
• Do not overload scaffolding with people or materials
• Use signs, barricades or guards to warn others of use
• Always check structural integrity of scaffolding and ladders

References:

WorkCover NSW “Portable Ladders – Safety Guide” 1999.

WorkCover NSW Safety Alert "Safe Use of Portable Ladders"

[1] This type of work should be undertaken by qualified electricians only