Ladders

Schedule 7 refers to Regulation 27(2)(b)) and states that a relevant contractor of construction work must ensure that a ladder is used for work at height only if a risk assessment has demonstrated that the use of equipment that better controls risk is not justified because the work involves a low risk and:-

• the work is of short duration
• the existing features of the relevant construction site make the use of that equipment impracticable, being features that the relevant contractor cannot alter

A surface on which a ladder rests must be stable, firm, of sufficient strength and of suitable composition safely to support:-

• the ladder so that its rungs or steps remain horizontal
• any loading intended to be placed on the ladder

A ladder must be so positioned as to ensure its stability during use.

A suspended ladder must be attached:-

• in any case, in a secure manner
• except in the case of a flexible ladder, so that it cannot be displaced and swinging is prevented

A portable ladder must be prevented from slipping during use by:-

• securing the stiles at or near their upper or lower ends
• an effective anti-slip or other effective stability device
• any other arrangement of equivalent effectiveness

An interlocking or extension ladder must not be used except when its sections are prevented from moving relative to each other.

A mobile ladder must not be used except when it is immobilized.

If a ladder or run of ladders rises a vertical distance of 9 metres or more above its base, then, where reasonably practicable, sufficient safe landing areas or rest platforms must be provided at suitable intervals.

A ladder must be used in such a way that a secure handhold and secure support are always available to the user, including when the user is carrying a load.

However, in the case of a step ladder, a secure handhold need not be available in circumstances where a load is carried if the availability of a handhold is not reasonably practicable in those circumstances, and a risk assessment in accordance with the construction phase plan has demonstrated that the use of a stepladder in those circumstances is justified because of the low risk in its use and the short duration of its use.