Safe use of portable ladders

The following information will help you determine whether a ladder is the right tool for the job, what you should look for when purchasing or selecting a ladder, and how to safely use and maintain a ladder.

Poster

This poster is also available from the Union Office or your onsite OH&S Rep.

Click the image to view a larger version.

WorkSafe guidelines

To view and download the WorkSafe guidance note, "Prevention of Falls in Construction- Selection and Safe Use of Portable Ladders" click here.

The guidance note has been developed in response to the recommendations contained in the findings of the Coronal Inquest into the death of Keith Dickman. To get a full appreciation of the importance and relevance of this guidance note, click here to download the findings of the Inquest.

Safe work method for working at heights and ladder use 

  • THIS FORM MUST BE CONSIDERED PRIOR TO ANY WORKS COMMENCING IN AN AREA.
  • THIS FORM IS TO BE KEPT IN THE AREA WHERE THE WORK TASK IS BEING UNDERTAKEN.
  • ALL SECTIONS OF THIS FORM MUST BE CONSIDERED
  • ALL EMPLOYEES WHO MAY USE LADDERS MUST BE MADE AWARE OF THIS FORM AND ITS REQUIREMENTS

This work method statement is to be read in conjunction with associated guidelines, work procedures, hazard identification, risk assessments and Safe Work Method Statements.

All associated personnel are to be suitably instructed and trained and comfortable in relation to working at height and will have been trained in this & associated work procedures. All works, tools, equipment and plant are to be used in accordance with industry standards, company policy, codes of compliance, legislation & regulation.

Hazard/Risk type: Fall from height – death, serious injury, sprains, strains, fractures, abrasions, contusions, lacerations, open wounds and dislocations.

1. Issues to be considered when working at height.

Prior to using a ladder to work at heights the hierarchy of control needs to be considered and implemented. (See supporting guidelines)
Hierarchy of Control

  1.  Elimination
  2. Substitution
  3. Engineering
  4. Administration
  5. PPE (personal protective equipment)

Can the task be performed in a “better” manner? ie;

  1. Can the work be performed on the ground?
  2. Can the work be performed from a fixed scaffold?
  3. Can an Elevated Work Platform [EWP] be used?
  4. Can a mobile scaffold be used?
  5. Can a work platform (chariot) be used?

If it is determined that ladders are the most suitable and practicable option available to be used, then only after assessment of the practicability of other methods the following shall apply.

2. Objectives

Generally ladders should be the last method of controlling work at heights, however regard as to the practicability of controlling work at heights needs to be incorporated into the selected work method.

It is anticipated that work off ladders will be generally carried out at heights of no more than 2.0 metres (this is the height to the feet supported on the ladder). Work at
greater than this will need to have additional documented risk assessments and Safe Work Method Statements, developed and implemented.

It is also anticipated that ladders may be selected for use when clear floor spaces are unavailable and floor load limits restrict the use of EWP’s, mobile or fixed scaffolds or other means.

It is anticipated that ladders may be selected for use when physical space restricts the use of other methods to control the risk of working at heights.

It is anticipated that the use of power tools will be restricted to the cordless type.

It is anticipated that the tasks where ladders are to be used will be of a light duty nature.

Ladders will not be used within 3 metres of an unprotected edge or perimeter of the building.
If in doubt about using a ladder ask your elected HSR, the Site Safety coordinator or a member of the Safety Committee for assistance.

3. Workers Using Ladders/Step Ladders Should Not:

When using a ladder the following activities should not be conducted:

  1. Work from a ladder while using personal protective clothing and equipment that restricts vision e.g. welding helmet;
  2. Work from a ladder to perform “Hot Works” without a documented risk assessment & Safe Work Method Statement e.g. welding;
  3. Work from a ladder using equipment primarily designed to be used with two hands; this includes tasks that do not allow for three points of contact, i.e., both feet on the rung and one hand free for balance and support.
  4. Stand less than 900mm from the top of a single ladder or less than 3 treads from the top when using a stepladder;
  5. Work from a ladder when facing away from the ladder;
  6. Work from a ladder that is not secured top & bottom (a second person may have to foot or hold the ladder until it is secured); (Note: stepladders may require a second person to 'foot' the ladder for added stability)
  7. Work from a stepladder that is not fully spread and spreaders locked;
  8. Use of a ladder that does not conform to Australian Standards;
  9. Use of a ladder that does not have at least a 120kg SWL and rated as industrial;
  10. Use of a ladder that is damaged or poorly maintained;
  11. Use of a ladder that has been repaired in a manner inconsistent with the Manufacturer or Nominated Service Agent’s standards;
  12. Work from a ladder using electrical equipment that may cause additional risk such as entanglement, trip & tipping hazards;
  13. Work from a ladder where over-reaching is required (the belt buckle must always be within the stiles of the ladder);
  14. Use of a ladder where the correct angle of inclination (1 in 4) cannot be achieved;
  15. Use of a ladder on a slippery surface;
  16. Work on a ladder over other persons;
  17. Work on a ladder with more than one person on the ladder;
  18. Work on a ladder set up on a scaffold, EWP or stacked materials to gain additional height;
  19. Work on a ladder in an access/egress area without appropriate control methods;
  20. Work on a ladder within the arc of a swinging door without appropriate control methods;

Further guidance and definition should be sought from WorkSafe Victoria Guidance Note “Prevention of Falls in Construction, Selection and safe use of portable ladders.” (2013) and the Codes of Compliance for the Prevention of Falls in Housing / General Construction.

Remember - If in doubt ask.

Incolink 24/7 counselling and support: 1300 000 129

 

 

The OH&S Unit is supported through Incolink funding.

Please wait.....