WAH/Access Equipment/TBT-WAH-036
Ladder Safety and Selection
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Ladder Safety and Selection
Ladders are the most commonly used access equipment on construction sites, but they are also involved in a significant number of falls from height. Under the Work at Height Regulations, ladders should only be used for short-duration, low-risk tasks where a more suitable means of access is not reasonably practicable. Selecting the right type of ladder for the job and using it correctly are both critical for safety.
Key Hazards
Falls from ladder due to overreaching or loss of balance
Ladder slipping at base or top due to poor setup
Structural failure of damaged or defective ladder components
Electric shock from metal ladders contacting overhead power lines
Control Measures
- Use ladders only for short-duration tasks lasting no more than 30 minutes in one position.
- Select the correct ladder type and class for the task — industrial grade for construction sites.
- Inspect the ladder before every use for damage, cracks, bent rungs, and missing feet.
- Set leaning ladders at a 75-degree angle using the 1-in-4 rule for base-to-height ratio.
- Secure the ladder at the top or have a colleague foot it throughout the period of use.
- Maintain three points of contact at all times while climbing or descending the ladder.
- Extend leaning ladders at least one metre above the landing platform for safe access.
- Do not carry heavy or bulky items while climbing — use a tool belt or hoist materials separately.
- Position the ladder on firm, level ground and never place it on unstable or makeshift supports.
Remember
- Ladders are a means of access, not a working platform — use them for short tasks only.
- Always inspect the ladder before every use and reject any that show signs of damage.
- Maintain three points of contact at all times while on a ladder without exception.
- The 1-in-4 rule means the base should be one metre out for every four metres of height.
- Overreaching is the most common cause of ladder falls — move the ladder instead.
- If a safer means of access is available, such as a podium or tower scaffold, use it instead.
Applicable Legislation: Work at Height Regulations 2005 · PUWER 1998 · BS EN 131 (Ladders Standard) · Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974
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