HSE publishes new guides to improve ladder safety
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has published new free guides to help raise awareness of the risks associated with ladder use and to give advice on how to use ladders safely. The guides are aimed at all users of ladders and their employers and have been published as part of HSE’s campaign to reduce falls from height.
Last year 13 people died from falls while working on a ladder, and more than 1200 people suffered major injuries. HSE’s guidance builds on the Work at Height Regulations 2005, which came into force on 6 April, and comprises:
• Safe use of ladders and stepladders – an employers’ guide
• A toolbox talk on leaning ladder and stepladder safety, for employers giving refresher training to ladder users
• Top tips for ladder and stepladder safety, a pocket card for workers, giving key messages on ladder use
These are available on the HSE website at: www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/indg402.pdf, www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/indg403.pdf and www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/indg405.pdf
The publication of this guidance coincides with “Ladders Week”, a nationwide initiative to promote the safe use of ladders. Running from 14th – 18th November, the initiative includes a week of events when HSE inspectors will work with ladder users and their employers, look at the current use of ladders and suggest sensible measures to improve safety.
Source: www.hse.gov.uk (accessed 11/11/05)
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