Ladder Usage Regulations
Under Use of Ladder the main distinction comes between whether it is being used for
Domestic purposes or Trade purposes
If it is being used for Domestic purposes then responsibility during use, lies with the user and claims for any damage or injury to property or persons would first be directed against the user. These could subsequently involve the manufacturer/seller if failure of the product was suspected. This process might involve the General Product Safety Directive and the Consumer Protection Act.
If it is being used for Trade purposes, then responsibilities can be far more complex and the implications of the various acts are important.
Employers (and the self-employed) have responsibilities to organise their work and the conditions in which it is carried out, in such a way that there will not be an adverse effect on the health and safety of either their employees or members of the public. They are required to carry out assessments of risks to injury to any employees, themselves and to persons who may be affected by their activities. Where these risks are significant then a requirement exists for measures to control them. Additionally where more than five persons are employed, then such control measures must be written down and made available to employees. As far as ladders in particular are concerned the following should be considered:
• What is it to be used for
•Type of ladder
• Duration of the work
• Wear and tear of the equipment
• Frequency of access
• Training and abilities of users
• Workplace conditions including external factors e.g. weather and vandalism
• Loads to be carried
• Prevention of falls
• Work platforms
|
Penalties and Offences Serious offences are committed by failing to carry out duties and obligations provided in the various acts and can lead to hefty penalties. Inspectors have extensive powers under the various acts and most are covered under a system of Notices. |
|
|
|
Guides and Information Guides and information specifically related to access equipment are numerous and in particular the HSE website is most helpful. The HMSO website is also useful in that most legislation can be accessed or obtained through it. The DTI have commissioned various reports and research work on ladders and related matters |