- All ladders used for access must be long enough to extend sufficiently above working platform, unless other methods have been taken to ensure adequate hand hold. The recommendation is that a ladder should extend at least 1.0m above lift.
- All ladders should be set where reasonably practicable, at between 65% to 75% or 1 in 4
- In the event that there is a potential risk of a fall over the guardrail while climbing a ladder between landing platforms, the introduction of additional guardrail to external face of scaffolding will need to be assessed.
- Good practice to higher landing areas would be to install a guard around top of ladder.
- All ladders should be fit for purpose, inspected prior to leaving yard and again by the leading scaffolder prior to installing.
Securing ladders
- Ladders should only be used on level ground and should be positioned to ensure their stability during use and secured immediately.
- It is highly recommended that ladders are secured to the scaffolding by square lashing, using suitable wire or rope, proprietary ladder clamps or cable ties of sufficient strength.
- Scaffold fittings may be used where the use of such fittings cannot damage metal ladders.
- Ladders need to be secured above the working platform
- Ladders shall be prevented from slipping during use by ensuring both stiles are secured, and if required at a central stage and at base
- Where ladders are tied off care must be taken to ensure that the support tube is either directly behind or immediately below the rung to avoid false step hazard
- Ladders should not be used in areas where there is a risk of it being struck be passing vehicles unless they have been protected by suitable barriers.
- It is recommended that ladders should not be used to carry materials up three points of contact must be maintained at all times
