How to Safely use a ladder

If you must use a ladder in the workplace you should:

• conduct a hazard identification and risk assessment
• ensure that the ladder extends at least one metre above the landing
• ensure that the ladder is installed on a stable surface
• secure the top and bottom of the ladder so it cannot shift position
• install a barricade or warning signs if there is a potential hazard to people near the work area
• only position or use the ladder in a manner that does not endanger others
• use warning signs or have a person guard at the foot of the ladder if needed
• if the ladder is placed near a doorway, the door should be locked open or closed.

When using a ladder; only one person should be on a ladder at a time, otherwise accidents will likely occur. It’s important to maintain three points of contact (e.g. two feet and one hand, or two hands and one foot) with the ladder at all times. It also essential to always climb and descend facing the ladder. Do not carry anything when climbing or descending and keep your body centred between the sides of the ladder. When using a ladder in the workplace do not lean sideways or over-reach, do not stand above the tread or rung on the ladder indicated as the maximum safe working height. Only conduct light work from a ladder as it is unsafe to carry out heavy work should you drop heavy equipment, injuries may occur. Ladders should be checked frequently and periodically serviced by a competent person (someone who is qualified either through experience and/or training). Consideration should be given to the type of environment in which the ladder has been used. For example, aluminium ladders can easily become damaged if exposed to acids.

It is also important to always set up the ladder on a flat, stable surface. Considering safety devices such as leg levellers, anti-slip gutter guards and stabilisers is also important for safe use of a ladder. All ladders must meet Australian standards to ensure maximum safety and should be suited to the particular type of job. Never stand on the top rung or step of the step ladder as it makes the ladder very unstable and prone to tipping over. Do not move or shift a ladder while a person or equipment is on the ladder as it could cause the materials or person to fall and cause serious injury.

MHA’s variety of step stools and step ladders can be used in offices, libraries, warehouses, retail and hospitality. Whatever your safe access requirements are for your workplace are, MHA can offer you the best solution.

General Purpose Step Ladders are our safest ladders in the range, however if the surface of the step stool is slippery accidents can still occur, therefore being essential to check for this and other safety regulations before use.

Aluminium Platform Ladders can make a lot of things much easier within your workplace. They are a large anti-skid work platform with raised edges, keeping feet inside the platform for greater safety and comfort while in use. However, if not used safely and without any of these regulations considered, accidents can occur quite easily.

Ladderweld Access Platforms are designed for safe, easy and efficient use in warehousing, vehicle maintenance, mining, aviation and heavy industry workplaces. The barriers featured on this product allow for safer use, which gives you the safest solution when requesting a ladder. Great for use in any warehouse or outdoor area, the Ladderweld access platform can also be a hazard if not used correctly.

Bailey Fiberglass Platform Ladders are available in platform heights from 3-6 steps. They feature an optional castor kit and tool tray for efficiency purposes. The castor kit allows it be safely moved from point a to b and therefore reducing manual strains. This product is a great choice, however without correct handling and use can still pose as a hazard in your workplace.

Heavy Duty Step Ladders are engineered with lightweight yet sturdy aluminium. The safety step has extra large steps instead of narrow rungs which provide safety and comfort when in use. They can be folded flat when not in use, making them easy to store and transport. They are safe ladder, as the height is limited, and the steps are grippy which prevents the possibility of slipping.

Safety Regulations And Safe Use For Ladders:

MHA’s entire range of ladders require safe use and careful observation before use. It is highly recommended that workers must read the safety regulations on how to safely use a ladder above before using any of our ladders, so as to ensure the safest use of our ladders as possible. To prevent accidents from happening in your workplace you must ensure that you are using all ladders correctly and only if you have to.