Euromate 223456 Page 23 Original Instructions Manual Download

Page: 23 / 88

Check before using the ladder

•

When transporting ladders on roof bars or in a
truck, ensure they are suitably placed to prevent
damage;

•

Visually check the ladder atthe start of each work-
ing day when the ladder is to be used;

•

For professional users regular periodic inspection
is required;

•

Ensure the ladder is suitable for the task;

•

Do not use a damaged ladder;

•

Do not use the ladder if contaminated, e.g. with
wet paint, mud, oil or snow;

•

For professional use a risk assessment shall be
carried out respecting the legislation in the coun-
try of use.

•

Do not modify the ladder design.

Positioning and erecting the ladder

•

Locking devices, if fitted, shall be fully secured
before use;

•

The ladder shall be on an even, level and unmov-
able base;

•

A leaning ladder should lean against a flat non-
fragile surface and should be secured before use,
e.g. tied or use of a suitable stability device;

•

The ladder shall never be repositioned from
above;

•

When positioning the laddertake into account risk
of collision with the ladder e.g. from pedestrians,
vehicles or doors; Secure doors (not fire exits)
and windows where possible in the work area.

•

Ladders shall not be positioned on slippery sur-
faces (such as ice, shiny surfaces or significantly
contaminated solid surfaces) unless additional
effective measures are taken to prevent the lad-
der slipping or ensuring contaminated surfaces
are sufficiently clean.

•

Ladder shall never be moved from the top.

Using the ladder

•

Do not exceed the maximum permissible load for
the type of ladder;

•

Do not overreach; users should keep their belt
buckle (navel) inside the stiles and both feet on
the same step/rung throughout the task;

•

Do not step off a leaning ladder at a higher level
without additional security, such as tying off or use
of a suitable stability device;

•

Do not use standing ladders for access to another
level;

•

Ladders should only be used for light work of
short duration;

•

Use non-conductive ladders for unavoidable live
electrical work;

•

Do not use the ladder outside in adverse weather
conditions, such as strong wind;

•

Take precautions against children playing on the
ladder;

•

Secure doors (not fire exits) and windows where
possible in the work area;

•

Avoid excessive side loadings e.g. drilling brick
and concrete;

•

Do not spend long periods on a ladder without
regular breaks (tiredness is a risk);

•

Leaning ladders used for access to a higher level
should be extended at least 1 m above the land-
ing point;

•

Maintain a handhold whilst working from a ladder
ortake additional safety precaution if you cannot;

Ensure that you are fit enough to use a lad-
der. Certain medical conditions or medica-
tion, alcohol or drug abuse could make lad-
der use unsafe;

Inspect the ladder after delivery and before
first use to confirm condition and operation of
all parts;

The ladder shall be erected at the correct po-
sition, such as the correct angle for a leaning
ladder (65-75° angle of inclination. approxi-
mately 1:4) with the rungs or treads level and
complete opening of a standing ladder;
Leaning ladders with steps shall be used that
the steps are in a horizontal position.

Identify any electrical risks in the work area,
such as overhead lines or other exposed
electrical equipment;
The ladder shall be stood on its feet, not the
rungs or treads;

Do not stand on the top three rungs of a lean-
ing ladder;

Do not stand on the top two steps/rungs of a
standing ladder without a platform and hand/
knee rail;

Do not stand on the top four steps/rungs of a
standing ladder with an extending ladder at
the top;

Do not ascend or descend unless you are
facing the ladder;

Keep a secure grip on the ladder when as-
cending and descending; Maintain a hand-
hold whilst working from a ladder or take ad-
ditional safety precautions if you cannot;
Do not use the ladder as a bridge;

Do not wear unsuitable footwear when climb-
ing a ladder;

Do not carry equipment which is heavy or dif-
ficult to handle while using a ladder;

Avoid work that imposes a sideways load on
ladders, such as side-on drilling through sol-
id materials (e.g. brick or concrete);