When it comes to reaching high places safely and effectively, at Cromwell you'll find a variety of ladders, step ladders and access equipment options tailored to your specific needs and preferences. Let's explore the range of ladders, working platforms, access ramps and other hop-up solutions, considering what factors are most important for you when making your selection.
Ladders can be a reasonably practicable option for low-risk, short-duration tasks, although they should not automatically be the first choice when working at height. If the task would require staying up a leaning ladder or stepladder for more than 30 minutes at a time, it is recommended to use alternative equipment.
A thorough risk assessment conducted by a competent person will determine the best equipment to be used for the hazard and task. Those working with and using ladders must be competent to do so. Competence can be demonstrated through a combination of training, practical and theoretical knowledge, and experience.
In addition to an inspection and maintenance regime, when working with ladders, pre-use checks must be undertaken. Read through our guidance and resources on this page, to ensure you find the right product for your needs.
Ladders are largely split into five various types, which we've outlined below.
It's also worth mentioning work platforms, scaffolding towers and access ramps which perform slightly different functions, but may also be used in circumstances that require you to work at height.
The UK standards and regulations that reference the provision, use, and condition of ladders in relevant workplaces include:
The standard BS EN 131 was set by the British Standards Institution (BSI) and is defined as applying to portable steps and ladders. The standard is designed to ensure and regulate the safety of various types of portable steps and ladders, and is broken down into seven separate parts, all of which are outlined on the BSI website. Ladders and steps tested to this standard ensure user safety and quality of the product.
As per the new BS EN 131 standard, ladders and step ladders are categorised as either 'Professional' or 'Non-Professional'. For use of ladders and step ladders in the workplace, you must select a product that is categorised as 'Professional'.
While the standards BS2037 and BS1129 have both been withdrawn, ladders originally made to these standards prior to their withdrawal can still be used (subject to following user instructions and guidance on safe use).
When using a ladder, to help make sure the ladder angle is at the safest position to work from, you should use the 4 to 1 (sometimes known as the 1-in-4) rule. This is where the ladder should be one space or unit of measurement out for every four spaces or units up (a 75° angle).
For example, if the ladder touches the wall four feet off the ground, the base of the ladder should be one foot away from the wall to ensure maximum stability.
This rule pertains to the number of contact points you should have when using a ladder. Three points of contact should be maintained at the working position. This means two feet and one hand, or when both hands need to be free for a brief period, two feet and the body supported by the stepladder.
More information around the three point rule can be found on the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) website.
This legislation applies to employers who have a duty of care to protect their employees against the fall risks associated with working at height. Working at height is defined as 'if there were no precautions in place, a person could fall a distance liable to cause personal injury'.
For more information, you can read the robust guide put together by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE).
Any ladder is classed as work equipment and therefore is also covered by the Provision and Use of Work Equipment (PUWER) Regulations 1998. PUWER requires that equipment provided for use at work is both suitable for the intended use and is inspected and maintained in a safe condition to ensure it does not deteriorate.
It is recommended that you keep a record of maintenance for high-risk equipment and although there are no legal requirements stating what they should contain, below is an example of the sort of information to include:
The Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974 is the primary piece of legislation covering occupational health and safety in Great Britain. It's sometimes referred to as HSWA, the HSW Act, the 1974 Act or HASAWA.
It sets out the general duties which employers have towards employees and members of the public, employees have to themselves and to each other certain self-employed have towards themselves and others.
When choosing a type of ladder, there are several important factors to consider before purchasing. By carefully taking into account these factors, you can be assured that the type of ladder, step or access equipment you choose will be suited for your requirements.
By carefully evaluating these factors, you can select a ladder that best suits your needs.
Regular checks of your ladders not only help prevent accidents and injuries but also contribute to the longevity and reliability of the equipment. By identifying and addressing potential defects or wear early on, employers can mitigate the likelihood of accidents caused by structural failures or instability. Some of these checks should include:
It may be helpful to use ladder inspection tags to signify which ladders have been inspected and when.
You should also always consider wearing relevant PPE when working at height. To learn more, view our Head Protection Guide.
To find out more about checking your ladder before use and risk assessments more generally, visit The Health and Safety Executive (HSE). Alternatively, our fully qualified Technical Safety Team are always available to support you with your safety needs and are on hand to help you choose the right level of safety equipment for you and your requirements. Ask Our Experts
Whilst some ladders, such as aluminium ladders, are robust and can withstand general exposure to the elements, storing your ladder outside is not recommended. To bolster product life and keep your ladder in a good and safe working condition between uses, it is recommended to store ladders in a dry, secure place, ideally off the floor.
Under health and safety law, stepladders and ladders are not banned. However, the health and safety law does call for sensible and proportionate measures when managing risks and hazards. Ladders are primarily suited for use during low-risk, short-duration tasks, but they may not always be the best option.
Making sure that you have conducted a thorough risk assessment, that personnel are trained in the proper use of ladders, that you are using the correct equipment and that correct PPE is worn during tasks involving ladders will help to mitigate potential risks associated with ladder usage.
There are eight steps that need to be taken before working at height. The hierarchy must be followed in a systematic way and only when one level is not reasonably practicable can the next level be taken into consideration.
These steps are referred to as the hierarchy of control and are outlined on the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) website.
To ensure you have all the necessary information surrounding ladders, including the guidelines and standards that pertain to them, as well as information relating to the selection of the right ladder, we've gathered a selection of resources, to help you on your journey to selecting the most effective ladder for your needs.