Ladder Placed Across Stair Opening: Worker Falls, Firm Fined
A recent case reported by the Health & Safety Executive (HSE) has highlighted the very real dangers of improper ladder use.
Back in December 2023, a labourer in the West Midlands suffered serious injuries after falling from a ladder that had been placed across a stairwell opening. Following an HSE investigation, the Staffordshire-based construction firm that appointed the worker has been fined £16,000 (plus £4,000 in costs). On top of this, the company's director – who was working nearby when the incident occurred – has been fined £2,000 (plus £1,386 in costs).
Why this incident matters
Placing a ladder across a gap might seem like a quick and practical way to cross it, but as the case above shows, this sort of improvised solution can be very dangerous.
Ladders, broadly speaking, are designed for vertical access and should not be used as horizontal walkways or bridges. Using your ladder in a way the manufacturer didn't intend can compromise the ladder's stability and dramatically increase your risk of a nasty fall.
In this particular instance, the consequences were severe indeed. The worker suffered fractures to both his skull and his back, and his employer found out how costly poor safety practices can be.
Where things went wrong
According to the HSE, this incident could have been prevented with proper planning and the right equipment.
Here are the key failings that led to the incident in question:
- The work (installing wall insulation in a new apartment building) was not properly planned
- The firm had failed to carry out a thorough risk assessment before commencing work at height
- There were no measures in place to prevent or arrest falls
- Work equipment, namely a ladder, was being used improperly
Lessons for working safely at height
This case serves as a clear reminder that cutting corners can have serious consequences.
If you're working at height, it's important to:
- Use equipment only for its intended purpose
- Carry out thorough risk assessments before starting work
- Take reasonable steps to prevent falls (e.g. erecting guardrails around openings)
- Take steps to minimise the consequences of falls (if fall prevention is not practical)
- Provide appropriate training and supervision for workers
- Follow the appropriate HSE guidance at all times
Don't misuse your ladder!
Ladders are an essential piece of equipment on many work sites, but they must be used correctly.
They're ideal for accessing high spots and completing short jobs. They are generally not suitable for bridging gaps or creating makeshift walkways. You can get stairwell ladders that are specifically designed for use on staircases, but depending on the situation, a suitable work platform may be preferable.
Looking for safe and reliable access equipment? Here at Ladders UK Direct, we supply a wide range of sturdy ladders and other products that can help you to work safely at height.
