Don’t let ladders let you down
February 1st 2009

According to the Ladder Association, there are ten basic things you need to know about ladders.

Ladders are not banned.You should choose the right equipment for work at height based on risk assessment, and if it's right to use a ladder, use the right ladder and use it safely. It's important to use the right ladder.

Ladders are classified as BS2037/BS1129 Class 3 for domestic use and should never be used in any workplace. EN131 is for trade and light industrial use and BS2037/BS1129 Class 1 for heavy duty and industrial use.

Use them safely. For example,make sure you have a ladder tall enough to do the job and that you position it correctly.

The acid test for ladders is low risk and short duration. Single tasks that take longer than 30 minutes in one position are not suitable for ladders.And if it's longer than 30 minutes consider if another type of work equipment would be more appropriate.

Eliminate or minimise the risks before proceeding and always plan ahead.Make sure the work is correctly organised and planned. Make sure you are competent by virtue of qualification, experience and training. For details of Ladder Association training courses visit www.ladderassociation. org.uk

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