Ladder Inspection Survey Highlights Training Concerns

Ladder inspection survey Ladderstore Ladders and access equipment specialists Ladderstore have just completed a detailed look into how businesses manage the process of inspecting their ladders and access equipment. The results highlight some key training issues that the Working at Height training industry need to adddress.

Although recent HSE campaigns, such as 'Shattered Lives' seem to have got the message over that ladder inspections are important the understanding of what is required and what constitutes a detailed, visual ladder inspection lacks rigour and consistency.

Damage Limitation for ‘Dodgy’ Ladders

Don’t get done with a ‘dodgy’ ladder

...that’s the message from Bolton-based Ladderstore.com for companies who don’t keep a careful eye on their ladders and risk the health and safety of their staff. The company’s message is in support of the 2010 Ladder Exchange which starts on 1st September with Ladderstore an HSE campaign partner for the forth year.

Inspection - Continuity of Care

On-going inspection and maintenance of ladder equipment is key; equipment gets worn, it can get damaged or broken.

The WAHR 2005 stipulates that regular inspections should be conducted by a competent person for all work at height equipment. Records of formal inspections are legally required when requested by a Health & Safety Inspector and the information must be both accessible, but protected from, interference or tampering.

Prevention is Better than Cure

Myth... HSE has banned stepladders

Truth... Ladders are not banned in the workplace, if it’s right to use a ladder, use the right ladder and use it safely.

Whilst everyone may think they know how to use a ladder safely, when push comes to shove and a job needs doing quickly, then stretching beyond a safe reach, or failing to secure a ladder base can seem like minor points to overlook.

A Quick Ladder Inspection Checklist

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.