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Step Ladders
What Happened?
An employee was observed by the client standing on the second step (from the top) of a step ladder.
Why did it Happen?
The employee thought that they were safe and did not need to go and get a larger ladder to allow them to keep working in a safe manner.
What to Do?
- A step ladder intended for use should be located so that it does not endanger the safety of any person
- Ladders must be fit for purpose and meet the Australian Standard
- NEVER:
- Use a ladder on a working platform to gain additional height if the person could fall from the ladder and onto or over the edge protection. This could occur if the person is working close to the guard rail and is above guard rail height
- Use a ladder in an access area unless actions have been taken to ensure traffic is redirected elsewhere or directed safely around the ladder
- Use a ladder near a doorway unless the door is blocked open, locked closed or removed. Alternatively, a person could be placed at the foot of a ladder to ensure traffic is safely redirected
- When using a step ladder, ensure that only one person is using the ladder at a time and that the person:
- Does not stand on the top or the second from the top tread (or as indicated on the side of the step ladder by the manufacturer) OR if it is a two step ladder or other ladder under 1 metre high which has been designed for standing on the top tread
- Does not stand on the rear horizontal braces of a single sided step ladder
- does not over reach while working from a ladder. The ladder should be relocated so that work can be undertaken without over reaching or a taller ladder sourced
- Uses the ladder only in the fully opened position
- A step ladder should not be used unless it is in good condition. The user should ensure:
- The ladder spreader is not damaged or missing and the locking mechanism is operable
- The ladder spreader has not been replaced with rope or chain
- Rubber feet are not damaged or missing
- The ladder stands with all feet in contact with the floor/surface
- The ladder is free of grease, mud or other substances which could cause slipping, loss of grip or loss of footing from the treads