Choosing aluminium extension ladders

 

When is a ladder the most suitable type of access equipment? 

 

When choosing which aluminium extension ladders are most suitable to the work, it is best to evaluate according to the guidelines laid out by the HSE.

 

Assess if the job requires work at height and assuming that it then you need to choose the best aluminium extension ladders available in order to prevent falls. 

 

The guidelines to help you decide to use a ladder are if the job will be:

1. In one position for no more than 30 minutes.
2. That the job is light work as if it is too strenuous then a detailed manual handling assessment should be done.
3. That it is possible to maintain three points of contact (hands and feet) in the working position which should include a handhold.

 

Once you are on the aluminium extension ladder you should never overreach or overload it.  Do not take anything up that is higher than the load stated on the ladder safety instructions.

 

Try to avoid work that involves side loading, and if it is not possible to avoid then you should tie the steps to a suitable point.  However there may be more suitable access equipment in this case.

 

Ideally do not carry something, but if you need to make sure you have one hand free to grip the ladder.

 

Safety Sections:

When is a ladder the most suitable type of access equipment? 

Is it a safe location to use a ladder?                                                        

Is the ladder safe to be used?                                                        

Do the users of the ladders know how to use them safely?       

 

Before buying aluminium extension ladders confirm with the manufacturers that the ladder is suitable for your worst case work scenarios.