Health, Safety and Environment - International Labour Organization

Manual 4:HEALTH, SAFETY & ENVIRONMENT FACT SHEETSLaddersavoiding the use of a ladder if there is a safer way of doing the job, forexample, by a scaffold or working platformprovision of permanent ladders, but preventing unauthorised use bylocking off the bottom of the ladder, when it is not in useprovision of handholds on permanent ladders, guard platforms andlandingsmaintaining ladders, extensions and step ladders in good condition,with a regular inspection programmetraining programmes for workers in the use of laddersensuring that ladders have firm footings and are never placed againstfragile surfacessetting the ladder at the most stable angle, a slope of four units up toeach one out at the baseextension of at least one metre above the landing place or the highestrung in use, unless there is a suitable handhold to provide suitablesupportextending ladders should overlap by at least three rungsprevention of slipping, for example, by tying at the top, sides or footprohibiting the use of ladders where there is danger from animals,moving vehicles, or electricity linesdestroying home made or defective laddersFloors and other means of access maintenance of floors in good condition, free from uneven surfaces,holes and accumulations of waste or slippery substances enclosure of processes or plant which may discharge or leak liquids andleaks to be contained or drained away160 Health, Safety and EnvironmentA Series of Trade Union EducationManuals for Agricultural Workers