Ladder Safety

Choosing a Step Ladder

What to look for when you're buying or borrowing
Many different designs are available, from small 'step-stools' to larger stepladders and combination designs which can be converted into extending ladders.

A type bought most often are the 4 to 7 step folding versions, as illustrated in this guide. These are suited to many jobs around the house, but it's very important never to use any stepladder that's the wrong height for the particular job you're doing. Some are too short for high work, and some - just as dangerous - are too tall for lower work. You must be able to do your work comfortably without over-reaching up, down or sideways.

All stepladders should meet the required British or European standards - check this whenever you buy, hire or borrow one.

• BS 1129:1990 (British) applies to wooden ladders
• BS 2037:1994 (British) applies to metal ladders
• BS EN 131:1993 (European) applies to both
• BS 7377:1994 (British) applies to step-stools
  

Is it strong enough?

In the British standards, there are now two classes of ladder. These are rated according to their safe working loads.

• Class 1 (Industrial) - maximum static vertical load: 175kg (27.5 stone)
• Class 3 (Domestic) - maximum static vertical load: 125kg (19.5 stone)

A previous Class 2 (Light Trade) is no longer used as a classification. The European standard BS EN 131 (or EN 131) now covers this.

• BS EN 131 (or EN 131) - maximum static vertical load: 150kg (23.5 stone)

Is It Safe?

Avoid falls and injuries from equipment by following the points below for every job.

Getting Ready

• Wear flat, firm soled shoes. Never work in high heels, bare feet or slippers.
• Check that there are no overhead hazards near where you're going to work.
  

Setting Up

• Check that the stepladder is locked into its correct position. If it's a multi-way design, make sure it's in the right configuration for the job you're doing. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions.
• Rest it on a firm and level base. If you're working outside, place a large, flat board on any soft ground to make a suitable base.
• Position it front-on to the work.
• Never work sideways.
  

On The Step Ladder

• Keep a secure grip at all times.
• Never have more than one person on the stepladder at a time.
• Don't put loose tools where they could move or fall and cause an injury. Use a fixed-on work tray if necessary.
• Always have both your feet on a step. Never stand on the top handrail to gain extra height. And don't forget....
• Never over-reach.
  

When the Job is done

• Keep your stepladder protected from the weather in a covered, ventilated area.
• Never hang it vertically from one of its steps.
• Keep it out of the way of children.