When working with ladders, planning ahead is crucial, and the best way to do this is to carry out a thorough risk assessment. The Ladder Association provides a systematic way to identify hazards and plan work safely known as the “STEP” methodology. This risk assessment framework ensures user safety while using ladders by breaking down the planning process into four key components. Site, Task, Equipment and People.

For a full breakdown of this methodology, keep reading this blog!

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When shopping for a step ladder, the amount of information provided and different measurements can be overwhelming and confusing. Does a “6-foot step ladder” mean you can reach 6 feet or that the step ladder itself is 6 feet tall? If you buy a 6-foot step ladder, do you need a 6 foot space to transport and store it in?

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Before carrying out any kind of work using a ladder, it is essential that you carry out a pre-use check to spot any obvious visual defects and ensure the ladder is safe to use. This pre-use check should be carried out by the user before every single use of the ladder, while detailed visual assessments should be carried out every three to six months or in accordance with the manufacturer guidelines.

For our top tips on how to spot an unsafe ladder, keep reading this blog!

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In the UK, ladders require a quick visual check before each use, with more detailed inspections every three to six months or in accordance with the manufacturer guidelines. But who is responsible for inspecting ladders? This blog will explain!

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While ladders are a useful tool for quick tasks that require reaching higher ground, there is a risk of your ladder slipping while you’re using it, which can lead to serious injuries.  In fact, in the UK during 2023/24, ladders were involved in nearly 40% of the 50 workplace fatalities from fall from height, with thousands more suffering serious non-fatal injuries from falls from ladders.

So, how do ladders not slip and what steps can you take to ensure that your ladder doesn’t slip why you’re using it? Keep reading this blog to find out…

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