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Working at Height

Working at Height. Stepladder Safety. Falls from height – a serious problem. Main cause of workplace fatalities 53 died 3800 serious injuries 60% falls from below head height From ladders/stepladders 14 died 1200 serious injuries HSE data 2004/5. Before you start . STOP!

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Working at Height

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  1. Working at Height Stepladder Safety

  2. Falls from height – a serious problem • Main cause of workplace fatalities • 53 died • 3800 serious injuries • 60%falls from below head height • From ladders/stepladders • 14 died • 1200 serious injuries HSE data 2004/5

  3. Before you start ... STOP! • The TASK • The USER Not every job can be done with just a stepladder - or by you alone. 

  4. The TASK Is a STEPLADDER right for the job? • Plan ahead to what you'll have to do • Will you need to: • move around while you're up there? • carry lots of materials/handle bulky objects? • use heavy equipment? • work for more than 30min?

  5. The USER Are YOU up to the job? • Physically fit enough? • Not much good at heights?! • Don't kid yourself by overestimating your abilities.  • If you're not completely certain that you can manage everything involved in doing the job properly, get help.

  6. Which type?

  7. Parts of a stepladder • Before each use check: • Is it sound? Not wobbly, cracked, dented, deformed, split, frayed, sharp edges? • Is there damage to stiles, rungs, steps or platform? • Are all non-slip feet in position? • Is it clean and dry (especially steps & hand holds)? • Date of last safety inspection? Faults found? – Don’t use! Professionally repair or replace! handle platform rung ladder lock (or cords) stile non-slip feet

  8. Is ladder suitable for use? • Built to current BS or EN Standard? • BS EN 131:1993 – applies to wood and metal ladders (Euro) • BS 1129:1990 – wooden ladders (Brit) • BS 2037:1994 – metal ladders (Classes 1 & 3) (Brit) • BS 7377:1994 – step stools (Brit) • Correct Class? • Industrial Duty (Class 1) • Trade Duty – BS EN 131 (Previously Class 2) • Domestic Duty (Class 3) – not suitable for work use!

  9. Is it strong enough? • New ladders generally marked with the safe working load :- • EN - Maximum Static Vertical Load (weight of user & additional weight carried e.g. equipment) • BS - Duty Rating (frequency & general conditions) EN 131

  10. Working Loads

  11. Is it long enough? Will you have to over-reach (up, down or sideways)?

  12. Getting ready… • Footwear – flat, firm-soled shoes. No high heels, bare feet (or slippers!). • Clothing – nothing to catch your feet in, get caught, e.g. skirt, wide trousers • Check area - no overhead hazards, other workers, firm base, sufficient room, near doors, etc. • Cordon off work area if necessary

  13. Stepladders - setting up … • Is it fully opened and locked into correct position? • Is it on a firm and level base? • Is it positioned with steps front-on to the work? • Never work sideways, if avoidable • Follow manufacturer's instructions for use. Multi-way design ladders – are they set up the right way for the job you are doing?

  14. On the stepladder … • DO keep a secure grip at all times. • DO have both your feet on the step at all times. • DON’T put loose items where they could fall and cause injury. Use a work tray if necessary. • DON’T use top platform unless stepladder is designed with special handholds. • DON’T stand on the top handrail to gain extra height! 

  15. On the stepladder … • DON’T be lazy… Move the stepladder – DON’T over-reach !

  16. Carrying stepladders • Short sets – carry vertically • If carried horizontally - front end higher than the back. • Be aware of what is in front & behind – watch you don’t hit anything!

  17. Storing stepladders • Vertical (recommended) • Secured, so they • can’t fall over or • be borrowed by other people • Don’t hang by the rungs

  18. Summary • Plan properly, don't underestimate the risks. Simply taking care is not enough. • Avoid work at height where possible by using different equipment or work methods. • Select the most appropriate equipment for the task. Making do to save money can result in injury and possibly prosecution. • Train those doing the work to use the equipment properly. • Inspect and maintain all equipment regularly and • Supervise the work effectively.

  19. Now please click on the button below to record your details. Adapted with the permission of Catherine Davidge, Health and Safety Services.

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