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LADDER USE
- Medium Risk– Only when area is free from student/staff activity
TASK
RISKS/HAZARDS
RESPONSIBILITY
SAFE WORK METHOD
1. Select Ladder fit for the purpose that it is to be used for.
Broken bones, muscular
bruises form fall injury
Cleaner
Select correct ladder for the job. Select ladder of
sufficient length so that it can be used at a slope
no great than 4 -1. (Do not use metal or wooden
ladders with wire enforcements where electrical
hazards exist)
2. Check ladder condition has been maintained and is in
good working order
Broken bones, muscular
bruises form fall injury
Cleaner
Check ladder for damage and stability. Ensure that
non slip foot rests and ladder feet are fitted.
3. Place ladder in position on a firm surface, even and
secured as appropriate to the ladder type, position and
use.
Broken bones, muscular
bruises form fall injury
Cleaner
Place ladder so that the area to be reached is
within arms reach without necessity of over
extension of arms. The top ladder must not extend
over 1 metre above the platform where platforms
need to be accessed.
4. Secure the ladder as appropriate to the position and
circumstances of use. Make sure the ladder is unable to
move when in position. This may require attaching the
ladder to a building or other appropriate fixture if it is
likely to move whilst in use.
Broken bones, muscular
bruises form fall injury
Cleaner
Ensure that the ladder will not move. The ladder
must be tied by a rope to a fixed fitting so that it
cannot slip or fall.
Make sure that a second person holds the ladder
secure and is able to stay with the ladder for the
duration of the job to keep it secure and warn
passers by. Use barricading appropriate to the
environment and the task.
5. Climb (or descend) the ladder ensuring that you do not
climb too close to the top of the ladder. It is best if knees
are not above the top of the ladder. Keep at least one
hand free to hold the ladder as the ladder is climbed.
Broken bones, muscular
bruises form fall injury
Cleaner
Climb no higher that the second rung from the top.
Keep a safe distance from the top to allow the
trunk of the body to lean on the ladder where
necessary.
6. Work from the ladder ensuring that you do not reach too
far to the sides, above or below the head, to allow a
reasonable reaching distance. The body of the person
on the ladder should not move away from the body of the
ladder.
Broken bones, muscular
bruises form fall injury
Head injury
Cleaner
Secure the tools, do not reach over at any time. On
completion lower the tools do not drop them.