37
GB
Check before using the ladder
a) Ensure that you are
� t enough to use a
ladder. Certain medical
conditions or medication,
alcohol or drug abuse
could make ladder use
unsafe;
b) When transporting ladders on roof bars
or in a truck, ensure they are suitably
placed to prevent damage;
c) Inspect the ladder after
delivery and before � rst
use to con� rm condition
and operation of all
parts;
d) Visually check the ladder
at the start of each working day when the
ladder is to be used;
e) For professional users regular periodic
inspection is required;
f) Ensure the ladder is suitable for the task;
g) Do not use a damaged ladder;
h) Do not use the ladder if contaminated,
e.g. with wet paint, mud, oil or snow;
i) For professional use a risk assessment
shall be carried out respecting the
legislation in the country of use.
j) Do not modify the ladder design.
Positioning and erecting the ladder
a) The ladder shall be
erected at the correct
position, such as the
correct angle for a
leaning ladder (65-75º
angle of inclination,
approximately 1:4) with
the rungs or treads level and complete
opening of a standing ladder;
b) Leaning ladders with
steps shall be used
that the steps are in a
horizontal position.
c) Locking devices, if � tted,
shall be fully secured
before use;
d) The ladder shall be on an even, level and
unmovable base;
e) A leaning ladder should lean against a
� at non-fragile surface and should be
secured before use, e.g. tied or use of a
suitable stability device;
f) The ladder shall never be repositioned
from above;
g) When positioning the ladder take into
account risk of collision with the ladder
e.g. from pedestrians, vehicles or doors;
Secure doors (not � re exits) and windows
where possible in the work area.
h) Identify any electrical
risks in the work area,
such as overhead lines or
other exposed electrical
equipment;
i) The ladder shall be stood
on its feet, not the rungs
or treads;
j) Ladders shall not be
positioned on slippery
surfaces (such as ice, shiny
surfaces or signi� cantly contaminated
solid surfaces) unless additional eff ective
measures are taken to prevent the ladder
slipping or ensuring contaminated
surfaces are suffi ciently clean.
65-75
o