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Ladders are not banned
26th Feb, 2006 to 26th Feb, 2007
An HSE representative spoke on the BBC’s Newsnight programme recently to dispel the myth that window cleaners can no longer use ladders because they are banned by the Work at Height Regulations (WAHR). Since the introduction of the WAHR there have been rumours in various industry sectors claiming that ladders are ‘illegal’ or ‘banned by the HSE’. The Newsnight piece gave the HSE an opportunity to set the record straight.
Ian Greenwood, head of the HSE’s falls from height programme, said “HSE champions sensible health and safety. These Regulations do not ban ladders but say they should be used only when all other safer alternatives for work at height have been ruled out. A risk assessment must show that the task is low risk and of short duration, or that there are site features that mean other equipment is not appropriate. If so, then ladders can be used.”
Falls from ladders resulted in 13 deaths at work last year. Every year falls at work cause some 4,000 major injuries. Nearly a third of these (over 1,200) follow falls from ladders.
The HSE has published new free guides to help raise awareness of the risks associated with ladder use and to give advice on how to use ladders safely:
- Safe use of ladders and stepladders – an employers’ guide (www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/indg402.pdf)
- A toolbox talk on leaning ladder and stepladder safety, for employers giving refresher training to ladder users (www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/indg403.pdf)
- Top tips for ladder and stepladder safety, a pocket card for workers, giving key messages on ladder use (www.hse.gov/pubns/indg405.pdf).
Commenting on new guides, Dr Elizabeth Gibby, director of the injuries reduction programme at the HSE, said: “Ladders should only be used for low risk, short duration work. If a ladder is the right equipment to use, it should be in good condition, prevented from slipping and used by competent people. There should always be a handhold available.”
Barrie Weatherall, chairman of the Ladder Systems Manufacturers Association (LaSMA), said: “This guidance is fully supported by the ladder equipment manufacturers’ trade associations, who were involved in its development.”