It might seem obvious but there is a basic level of skill and knowledge that an HSE or Local Authority Inspector would expect people in your workplace to have if they used a ladder in their day to day work. Meet this level of training and not only can you rest assured that you have fulfilled your obligation to the welfare and safety of your staff, but in doing so you might even save a life – no mean achievement.

This is what they should know and this is what the your ladder safety training should cover.

Is a ladder right for the job?

• Is the job low risk?
• Is the work of a short duration?
• Is a stability device or stand off required?

Is your ladder up to the job?

• Is it long enough to reach the work easily?
• Can it be placed securely on the surface?
• Can you maintain three points of contact (leaning ladder)?
• Can the ladder be set up at the right angle?
• Is the surface it is leaning on secure (leaning ladder)?
• Is it of the right classification (trade – industrial)?

Is your ladder in good condition?

• Check styles, rungs or steps.
• Check the feet - are they missing, loose, damaged, worn?
• Are rivets in place and secure?
• Check locking bars are not bent or buckled (step ladders).

Do you know how to set up your ladder?

• Do you know the correct angle?
• Do you know how to use any stability devices?
• Can you secure or tie the ladder at the top or bottom?

Using the ladder safely

• Make sure there are three points of contact available.
• Do not over-reach.
• If you need to carry tools and equipment, make sure you do this safely.
• Know the maximum safe loads on the ladder.
• Always position the ladder face on to the work.
• Make sure any locking bars are in the proper position.
• Wear the right footwear and make sure the soles are clean.
• Footing the ladder – do you know how best to do it and that it is the last option?
• Working near people and near doors – do you know what needs to be done to keep safe?

Common ladder falls

• Over-reaching
• Ladder in poor condition
• Ladder not suitable for the work

Looking after your ladder

• You need to be able to identify each ladder you have for checking and inspection purposes. If you only have one ladder this is easy, if you have 20 it might be more difficult.
• You need to store your ladder safely.
• You need to transport the ladder safely.
• Keep the rungs clean so that they don’t become slippery.

We hope that by giving you some real facts about what Inspectors look for we will inspire you to think about training your staff if you don’t already do this. All Ladder Log users can download a free LadderLog safety inspection checklist with notes by visiting here...../

Obviously we can help! We offer a range of ladder related training courses designed to be flexible, we can come to you, minimising any work downtime, or we can hold your training course at an off-site location. Get in touch and we will help you arrange the best course for you and your team, you can contact us on 01204 590 232.