Single ladders

Fall accidents due to e.g. inadequate stability of the ladder, misconduct on the part of the ladder user, slipping off a step or rung when climbing up or down, lack of securing in the traffic area or the use of a defective ladder.

Before a ladder is provided and used as a workplace or as access to workplaces at height, it must be determined as part of the risk assessment whether the use of a ladder is necessary or whether other work equipment is safer for this activity.
The use of ladders must be restricted to work with low risk and short duration of use.
Structural conditions that cannot be changed can also lead to the use of ladders.
If possible, use single ladders with steps, widened feet as traffic routes and rail extensions use. Ascending and descending is safer without having to climb over the side of the ladder.

Secure leaning ladders against slipping, falling over, tilting, slipping and sinking, e.g. by:
- Tying the ladder head,
- Fixing the ladder foot,
- Use of ladder accessories such as foot extensions , Ladder head safety device Ladder feet adapted to the ground ,
- Suspension devices.
Improve the stability of the ladder user by using stepladders.
Do not use damaged ladders, e.g. broken stiles and rungs/steps of wooden ladders, bent and buckled metal ladders. Do not mend broken stiles and rungs/steps of ladders.
Store wooden ladders protected against the effects of weather and temperature. Do not use opaque paints.
Only lean ladders against safe support points. Extend at least 1.00 m beyond the exit point or create/use other holding options.
Maintain the correct contact angle .
It amounts to
- Step ladders 60-70°,
- Rung extension ladders 65-75°.
Only walk on the ladder with suitable footwear and ensure that the treads and rungs are not soiled to the detriment of walking on them.
Do not step on the top 3 rungs/steps.
Draw up operating instructions and regularly instruct employees in the use of ladders.
Secure ladders in the traffic area, e.g. with barriers.
When working outdoors, take account of environmental and weather influences (e.g. wind, slippery snow and ice, falling or toppling parts).

Only connect or extend the ladder up to the length specified by the manufacturer.
In the case of extension ladders, ensure that the ladder sections can move freely and that the locking devices engage properly .

During construction work
- the employee does not work for more than 2 hours per shift at a standing height of more than 2.00 m,
- the weight of the tools and materials to be carried does not exceed 10 kg,
- the area exposed to wind of objects carried does not exceed 1 m² amount.
A maximum stand height of up to 5.00 m is permitted for temporary work.
Do not work from leaning ladders if
- additional hazards arise from existing or used substances and work processes, e.g. working with acids, alkalis, hot bitumen,
- machines and equipment must be operated with both hands, e.g. hand-held machines, high-pressure cleaning equipment.
The employee stands with both feet on a step or platform.

Only use ladders as access routes to workplaces where there is a low risk and the duration of use is short and if the height difference to be bridged is ≤ 5.00 m.

Determine the type, scope and deadlines for required inspections (risk assessment) and comply with them, e.g. regular Examination by a person qualified and authorized to carry out the inspection.
Document the results (e.g. conductor inspection logbook, checklist, inspection sticker).
Control for obvious defects before each use.