Econet Risk Assessment [Base Document]
Assessment: Ladder work

Scope: Activity [Task]

Assessment Summary: Ladder work;



Ladder work
Last updated: 01/01/2012 00:00:00
Typical uncontrolled outcomes
Serious injuries associated with falling from height; broken bones; concussion
Typical groups at risk
Volunteers; other site users; general public
  Insurance considerations
Econet's insurance only covers work up to heights of 5 metres.
  Hazards
  • Defective ladder
  • Uneven ground or unbalanced ladder
  • Unexpected movement of ladder
  • Falling tools or materials
  • Contact with overhead power lines
  • Overreaching
Controls
  • Check all rungs and both stiles are in sound condition whenever ladder is used.
  • Do not use to access heights greater than 5 metres (see Insurance Considerations above).
  • Do not use in high winds.
  • Locate on firm, even ground at about 75 degrees to the horizontal.
  • On soft or uneven ground stand firmly on level support, e.g. stout board.
  • Place ladder facing work.
  • Position to avoid vehicle impact.
  • Do not use ladder within 5 metres of overhead power lines.
  • Ladder must either be tied off or footed and must be footed while top secured.
  • Volunteers at base of ladder must wear hard hats.
  • Mark off or cordon area around base of ladder to prevent others approaching.
  • Minimise tools and materials above ground level and secure them.
  • Hoist tools and materials using rope and/or tool belt.
  • Do not lean over or load the side of the ladder.
  • Ladder should extend at least 1 metre beyond highest rung to be stood on unless there is secure handhold to give equivalent support.
  • Carry ladder between two people, with ladder at their side.

   Econet's Health and Safety Policy can be found at www.econetreading.org.uk/admin.

   16 February 2024 18:40 T2302164464