Step Ladders
Folding step ladders are an extremely convenient way of accessing work, which is out of reach, but familiarity can lead to carelessness. Falling off a step ladder is no less serious than off an ordinary ladder so equal care is called for.
Importance.
Step ladders are probably the most ‘borrowed’ item of all site equipment. Always check ‘borrowed’ step ladders doubly well as it is still your responsibility to ensure your own safety.
Regulations.
Under the Work at Height Regulations employers have a duty to assess the risks, plan and supervise all workers who work at height. Step ladders are covered by the same regulations as ordinary ladders regarding construction and materials and this is even more critical because of the extra parts required to make them foldable.
Guidance.
- Only use ladders for work of short duration and which can safely be done from a ladder e.g. work requiring only one hand and within easy reaching distance.
- Establishing a habit of checking off a mental list of safety requirements each time a pair of steps is used, will help lead to safe working.
- Step ladders must be suitable. Domestic weight step ladders are not normally up to trade use.
- Check anti-spread devices (cords, clips, brackets etc.). Remember - if it’s defective don’t use it.
- Check folding mechanism (hinges, pin, rivets, etc).
- Always spread the ladder to its fullest extent, so that it can’t suddenly jerk while you are on it.
- Ensure that all four stiles are on firm, level ground. This is specifically mentioned in the regulations so use of an unsteady step ladder is an offence.
- You must always have a secure handhold.
- You cannot stand on the top steps unless there is some other handhold e.g. an extension.
- Place the ladder at right angles to the work so that twisting the body is not necessary.
- Try to visualise where the centre of gravity of you, any tools or materials, and the ladder, lies so that it stays within the base area of the ladder.
- An assistant standing on the bottom step lowers the centre of gravity very effectively, but make sure they understand and so do not step off suddenly.
Questions.
- What should you check before using a step ladder?
- How should you place the step ladder to the work?
Summary.
Always inspect a step ladder before using it and report immediately any defect or breaking of these rules. Make sure no one else can use the ladder either.
