It is widely accepted that falls from height are the largest cause of death in the UK workplace. We urge all employers and employees alike to consider that workers should not be put at risk by ladders or safety steps that are continually used when in an unsafe condition. Most accidents occur without the user being aware of damage or defects to the very equipment that they are using!
Ladder inspections are designed to protect the users of ladders and steps such as extension ladders, stepladders, combination ladders, mobile safety steps, access platforms and multi-purpose ladders. These checks are the answer to the dangerous problem of potential falls through equipment failure. It is therefore advisable to carry out on-site inspections by qualified engineers who are trained to perform complete examinations of your equipment. Their findings will be recorded and where necessary any damage or defects found will be reported directly to you. You will then need to decide whether to repair or replace the defective equipment.
Ladder inspections should provide the employer with the comfort that any ladder, safety steps or low-level access equipment have:
- No visible defects.
- An up-to-date record of the detailed visual inspections regularly carried out by a competent person.
- Suitability for the intended use plus being strong and robust enough for the task.
- Been maintained and stored in accordance with manufacturer instructions.
The inspection should look for:
- Damaged or worn ladder feet.
- Twisted, bent or dented stiles.
- Cracked, worn, bent or loose rungs.
- Missing or damaged welded joints, loose rivets or damaged stays.
Further help and advice can be found at Health & Safety Executive (HSE).
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