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Parts & Service: 020 8988 7400 / E-mail: [email protected] or [email protected]
FIVE MAIN CAUSES OF ACCIDENTS ON LADDERS
The following list of hazards and examples of their causes, which is not
exhaustive, are common reasons for accidents encountered when using
ladders.
1) LOSS OF STABILITY:
a. Incorrect positioning of the
ladder (such as incorrect angle
for leaning ladder or not fully
opening a standing ladder).
b. Slide outwards at the bottom (the
ladders sliding away from the
wall).
c. Side slip, falling sideways at the
top.
d. Condition of the ladder (such as
missing anti-slip feet).
e. Stepping off an unsecured ladder
at height.
f.
Ground conditions (such as
unstable soft ground, sloping
ground, slippery surfaces or
contaminated solid surfaces).
g. Adverse weather conditions
(such as windy conditions).
h. Collision with the ladder (such as
vehicle or door).
i.
Incorrect choice of ladder (such
as too short, unsuitable for the
task).
2) FROM HANDLING:
a. Transferring the ladder to the
work position.
b. Erecting and dismantling the
ladder.
c. Carrying items up the ladder.
3) SLIP TRIP AND FALL OF USER:
a. Inappropriate footwear.
b. Contaminated rungs or steps.
c. Unsafe user practices (such as
climbing 2 rungs at time, sliding
down stiles).
4) STRUCTURAL FAILURE OF LADDER:
a. Condition of the ladder (such as
damaged stiles, wear).
b. Overloading the ladder.
5) ELECTRICAL HAZARDS:
a. Unavoidable live working (e.g.
fault finding).
b. Positioning ladders too close to
live electrical equipment (such as
overhead power lines).
c. Ladders damaging electrical
equipment (such as covers or
protective insulation).
