Ladders and step ladders allow workers to access and operate at height. Contrary to popular opinon, ladders and stepladders are not banned by the HSE, however the Work at Height Regulations identify specific cautions over their use. This means that they should only be selected where other more suitable work equipment cannot be employed. They should only be used for short duration, light work.
Ladders and stepladders offer high levels of flexibility in the workplace. Subject to risk assessment Ladders and Stepladders maybe the appropriate solution for the task, although they do not avoid working at height. In one year alone, 13 people died and 1200 suffered major injuries. The relevant standards are BSEN 131/1, BSEN 131/2, BS 2037 and BS 1129 and classify the types of equipment and applications.
The Ladder Association is the industry body for ladders and stepladders. It works closeley with the HSE, DTI and BSI and is intended to give specifiers and end users guidance on the safe and effective use of portable ladders and steps. It is responsible for approving those centres delivering courses and issuing competency cards.
For more information on our the Ladder Association courses click here.