Ladders are acceptable only for access or work of short duration.

They should be:

• erected at correct angle (4 up to 1 out)
• secured (preferably at top) or footed
• positioned close to the work to avoid over-reaching
• sufficiently protected at the base of any ladder or access equipment to prevent pedestrians or vehicles bumping into them.

Stepladders

When using stepladders the following precautions should be taken:

• always spread them to their full extent and lock them off
• do not work on the top platform
• do not use the top tread, tool shelf or rear part of the steps as a foot support
• only one person should be on the ladder at any one time
• the ladder must be appropriate and of the correct grade for the intended use.

Mobile elevated platforms

• use the platform only on level, firm ground
• only use the equipment with outriggers and stabilizers
• work with a trained operator at ground level
• safety harnesses must be worn while on the platform
• keep the platform within safe working limits and radius, taking account of wind speeds.

Scaffold towers

Scaffold towers should:

• be erected by a competent person
• have a height to base dimension ratio not exceeding 3 to 1 indoors, or 2.5 to 1 outdoors
• have stabilizers deployed as necessary to meet the correct height to base ratio
• use outriggers or stabilizers if above 2.5 m high
• have all casters firmly locked before use
• have ladder access to the working platform
• never be moved while the tower is occupied
• be regularly inspected and maintained.

Safety lines, harnesses and nets

Fall restraint and arrest equipment such as nets, airbags and harnesses, etc. should only be considered as a last resort when no other means are reasonably practicable.

They should only be used and erected by trained operatives and tested and inspected regularly.

Source: The Scottish Centre for Healthy Working Lives

www.healthyworkinglives.com