Stepladders, platform ladders, fixed ladders, fixed ladders

Fall accidents due to poor stability of the ladder user on the ladder, poor stability of the ladder, misconduct of the ladder user, lack of securing in the traffic area or use of a defective ladder.

Before a ladder is to be 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 another work equipment is safer for this activity. When selecting a ladder, lightweight platform ladders and platform ladders preferable.
The use of ladders must be restricted to work with low risk, a small amount of work with a low degree of difficulty and a short duration of use.
Structural conditions that the contractor cannot change can also lead to the use of ladders.

The employee must stand with both feet on a step or platform. The permitted duration of use for employees with a standing height > 2 m up to max. 5 m is two hours/working shift.
Only use ladders that have firmly attached and undamaged spreader locks .
Walking with the ladder is not an intended use; always use ladders in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.
Do not use opaque paints to paint wooden ladders.
Do not use damaged ladders, e.g. broken or cracked stiles and steps, bent or kinked metal ladders.
Do not mend broken or cracked stiles, stringers and steps.
Store wooden ladders protected against the effects of weather and temperature.
Provide sufficiently high ladders.
Set up ladders in a stable position, secure against sinking in and falling over. Ensure effective splay protection .

Improve the stability of the ladder user by using stepladders and platform ladders.
Do not use stepladders in the same way as single ladders.
Only use stepladders with stile extensions on stairs and sloping surfaces .
Fasten each rail extension with ladder clamps or clamping straps according to the manufacturer's instructions. Fastening distance according to assembly instructions.
Do not climb from stepladders onto other workplaces and traffic routes.
Do not climb the top two steps of stepladders; climbing on the top step is only permitted on ladders with a platform or landing with a holding device or guardrail .
Secure ladders in the traffic area, e.g. with barriers.
Instruct employees in the use of ladders before first use and regularly thereafter.

Do not step onto the stepladder until the pressure and tension-resistant spreader locks are in place .
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 are fully engaged.
Do not step on the top four steps of stepladders with an extension ladder attached .

Only set up platform ladders on level ground.
Close the enclosure after stepping onto the platform.
Set up and support height-adjustable platform ladders according to the manufacturer's instructions .

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 and proper function before each use.