Risks with ladders

Accidents with ladders are mainly due to

• the ladder sliding straight out at the bottom
• the ladder sliding sideways at the top
• the ladder or step stool being overturned.

Falling from a ladder can lead to long sick leaves – 50 days on average.

How to reduce the risks

How you, as an employer, can reduce the risks with ladders and step stools.

Choose the right work equipment

Only use a ladder when appropriate. A ladder is not appropriate if you must, for example

• handle something with both hands (larger drill, bolt gun or similar)
• do something that requires you to use force
• handle something large or heavy
• reach very high or over a wide area
• do something that takes a long time
• place the ladder on a slippery or uneven surface.

Alternatives to a ladder may include

• a staircase with handrail
• a work platform
• a mobile work platform (skylift)
• a scaffold
• a mobile access and working tower
• a scissor lift

Ensure that product requirements are complied with

The Swedish Work Environment Authority regulates how ladders and step stools must be designed and how they may be used professionally. The Product Safety Act also applies.

Ensure that all equipment is in good condition

The equipment must be in good condition. Inspect it and check that it is safe to use. Most significant faults can be seen with the naked eye. Rungs may be loose, bent or cracked. The anti-slippage devices can fall off, wear out or age.

Ensure the ladder is stable and inclined correctly

You can prevent slipping by having someone hold the ladder while it is in use. This is especially helpful when taking the first step.

You increase safety if you anchor the ladder at the top with a tension strap, rope or similar.

A leaning ladder is most secure when it is inclined at about 75 degrees. If you measure with your arm as shown in the picture, the slope will normally be correct.

Get a safer work environment by working systematically

As an employer, you must manage the safety and health environment systematically, in order to improve it. Our provisions for systematic work environment management apply to all employers – regardless of the activities or the risks that you and your employees may be exposed to.

The employer is responsible for the risks involved in working with ladders and step stools

As an employer, you are responsible for reducing the risks when working with ladders and step stools, just as you are responsible for all aspects of the work environment. You must be familiar with the Work Environment Act and other work environment regulations.

Employees and safety representatives are important for a good work environment

Employees and safety representatives have an important role in work environment management. As an employer, you must give all employees the opportunity to participate in work environment management. For example, you can let employees suggest measures or provide feedback on measures you have implemented.

Employees' participation in work environment management

As an employee, you must participate in work environment management and participate in implementing the measures needed to achieve a good work environment. You must follow the employer's instructions. You must also report to your employer or your safety representative if the work involves immediate and serious danger to life or health.