What Is the STEP Methodology for Ladder Work?

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!

STEP Methodology: The Breakdown

Site

First and foremost, you will need to evaluate your work area for any hazards like uneven ground, trip hazards, electrical lines and overhead obstructions. If the surface you are positioning your ladder on isn’t dry, flat, strong and secure, you should adapt the surface or take other measures to prevent the ladder becoming unstable. You should also secure the work zone by cordoning it off and displaying signage.

Task

Next you will need to consider your specific task requirements: how long will you need to use the ladder? How high do you need to go? What is the weight of all the materials you will be carrying? If your task will require you to work continuously for more than 30 minutes at a time, you will need to find a different height access solution. Equally so, if the weight of you plus any materials you need exceeds the ladder weight limit or if you cannot access your desired area without overreaching, you will need to find another solution.

Equipment

If you have come to the conclusion that a ladder is the right tool for your job, you need to make sure you pick the right one. If you are unsure what type of ladder you will need, our ladder buying guide should help give you an idea. Once you are sure that your ladder is suited to your job, you need to make sure that it is in good working condition. To do this you should carry out a thorough ladder inspection where you check the rungs, rails, feet and hardware for any damage before each and every use. If you see any signs of damage, the ladder should be taken out of use immediately.

People

Finally, ensure that only authorised personnel use the ladder. The ladder user should be appropriately trained, understand the risk assessment and know how to follow safe working practices, such as maintaining three points of contact and following the ‘belt buckle rule’.

By following this step by step methodology, you can ensure that all potential hazards and risks have been identified and mitigated before work begins, helping to prevent falls and other accidents. The STEP methodology also forces the user to check that the ladder is suited for the job and in working order, reducing the risk of equipment failure.

If you have any questions about our ladder collection or how to create a risk assessment of your own, please get in touch with us today!

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