Article 5/7 of Ladder Safety Guidelines Securing Ladders Used for Access. Securing your ladders before first use is a must for safety. It’s all too easy just to jump on to do the “2-second” job, but that is all it takes for a serious accident to happen. Checking and securing before use will eliminate the vast majority of accidents.
Ladder Safety Guidelines Article index
Ladder Safety Guidelines Securing ladders used for access.
The options recommended by the HSE for securing ladders are as follows:
- Tie the ladder to a suitable point, making sure both stiles are tied.
- Where this is not practical, secure the ladder with an effective ladder stability device.
- If this is not possible, securely wedge the ladder. an example of this would be to wedge the stiles against a wall.
- If you cannot achieve any of these options, foot the ladder. Footing is the last resort and should only be considered using a suitably strong and experienced person.
Ladders used for access.
Adopt the following points when using ladders for access to another level or landing.
- Ladders used to access another level should be tied and extend at least 1 m above the landing point to provide a secure handhold.
- At ladder access points, a self-closing gate is recommended.
- Stepladders should not be used to access another level, unless they have been specifically designed for this purpose.
Safe Use of Ladders and Stepladders –
Online Safety Training.
This ladder safety course is perfect for people who carry out tasks on ladders or stepladders. You will explore why ladders are dangerous and look at the hazards that are associated with their use. You will also look at correct procedures to ensure ladders are used safely.
NEXT> Ladder safety guidelines – inspecting the condition of ladders
Source: https://www.hse.gov.uk/work-at-height/ladders/when-how-to-use-ladders-safely.htm