Safe Use of LaddersSafe Use of Ladders

Safe Use of Ladders

When a ladder is used, you should check that:

• the ladder is in good condition—the ladder should be inspected for faults, such as broken rungs, stiles and footing before it is used

• damaged ladders are removed from service

• the ladder is set up on firm, stable and level ground

• the ladder is the correct height for the task to avoid reaching or stretching

• the ladder is not too close or too far from the support structure—the distance between the ladder base and the supporting structure should be about one metre for every four metres
  of working ladder height (4:1 ratio)

• the ladder is secured against displacement (i.e. slipping or sliding) and/or there is another person holding the base of the ladder

• the ladder is not placed so that the weight of the ladder and any person using the ladder
  is supported by the rungs

• all the locking devices on the ladder are secure

• materials or tools are not carried while climbing the ladder—use a tool belt or side pouch

• only light duty work is undertaken while on the ladder, where three points of contact can
  be maintained and tools can be operated safely with one hand

• slip resistant base, rungs or steps are provided

• slip resistant shoes are worn

• ladders are not used without additional appropriate precautions:

• in access areas or doorways—if necessary, erect a barrier or lock the door shut

• on scaffolding or an elevating work platform to get extra height

• next to power lines unless the worker is trained and authorised and the appropriate ladder is being used

• in very wet or windy conditions

• next to traffic areas, unless the working area is barricaded.

Figure 29: A step platform can provide a stable work surface

Figure 29 shows how a step platform can provide a stable work surface.

When using ladders, it is not safe to:

• use metal or metal reinforced ladders when working on live electrical installations
• carry out work such as arc welding or oxy cutting
• work over other people
• allow anyone else to be on the ladder at the same time.

Except where additional and appropriate fall protection equipment is used in conjunction with the ladder, it is not safe to:

• use a stepladder near the edge of an open floor, penetration or beside any railing

• over-reach (the centre of the torso should be within the ladder stiles throughout the work)

• use any power or hand tool requiring two hands to operate, such as concrete cutting saws
  and circular saws

• use tools that require a high degree of leverage force which, if released, may cause the user
  to over-balance or fall from the ladder, such as pinch bars

• face away from the ladder when going up or down, or when working from it

• stand on a rung closer than 900 mm to the top of a single or extension ladder

• stand higher than the second tread below the top plate of any stepladder (with the exception
  of three-rung step ladders).

Guidance on the selection, safe use and care of portable ladders is set out in AS/NZS 1892 Portable ladders series. The manufacturer’s recommendations on safe use should also be followed.

Figure 30: Examples of unsafe ladder useExamples of unsafe ladder use.