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Hello, fellow educators and learners! As a teacher in the UK, I'm excited to guide you through the essential topic of step ladder safety in construction. This presentation will cover key aspects of using step ladders safely, helping to prevent accidents and promote best practices on construction sites across the country.

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Step Ladder Safety - By the Health & Safety Team

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Falls from height are a leading cause of injuries and fatalities in UK construction.

Common Cause:

Improper use of step ladders contributes significantly to these incidents.

Importance of Safety Measures:

Understanding and implementing proper safety protocols can mitigate risks.

Goal:

Create a safer working environment for all construction workers.

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Step ladders come in various types and materials. In UK construction, you'll commonly encounter aluminium, fibreglass, and wooden step ladders. Each type has its advantages and specific use cases. For example, fibreglass ladders are ideal for electrical work due to their non-conductive properties.

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Before use, always ensure your step ladder is on a firm, level surface. Check that all four feet are in contact with the ground. Never use a step ladder on uneven or slippery surfaces. Additionally, make sure the ladder is fully open with the spreaders locked in place.

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When climbing a step ladder, always face the ladder and maintain three points of contact (two feet and one hand, or two hands and one foot). Never stand on the top two steps of the ladder, and avoid overreaching - your belt buckle should remain between the side rails.

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How to Use Ladders Safely | Ask This Old House

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Regular maintenance and inspection are crucial for step ladder safety. Before each use, check for any damage, loose parts, or wear and tear. Pay special attention to the steps, side rails, and locking mechanisms. If you find any issues, tag the ladder as defective and remove it from service immediately.

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In the UK, the use of step ladders in construction is governed by the Work at Height Regulations 2005. These regulations require employers to ensure that work at height is properly planned, supervised, and carried out by competent persons. This includes providing appropriate equipment and training for step ladder use.

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Legislation is available in different versions:

Latest Available (revised): The latest available updated version of the legislation incorporating changes made by subsequent legislation and applied by our editorial team. Changes we have not yet applied to the text, can be found in the 'Changes to Legislation' area.

Original (As Enacted or Made): The original version of the legislation as it stood when it was enacted or made. No changes have been applied to the text.

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Latest Available (revised): The latest available updated version of the legislation incorporating changes made by subsequent legislation and applied by our editorial team. Changes we have not yet applied to the text, can be found in the 'Changes to Legislation' area.

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Proper training is essential for anyone using step ladders in construction. In the UK, this often involves completing a Ladder Association training course or similar certified program. These courses cover risk assessment, ladder selection, inspection, and safe use techniques.

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Let's take a moment to discuss our experiences with step ladders in construction. In small groups, share any incidents or near-misses you've witnessed or been involved in. What were the contributing factors? How could these situations have been prevented? After discussing, we'll share key insights with the whole class.

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What is the first thing you should check when setting up a step ladder on a construction site?

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How many points of contact should you maintain while climbing a step ladder?

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Which UK regulation governs the use of step ladders in construction?

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How often should a step ladder be inspected for damage or wear?

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What part of your body should remain between the side rails of the ladder while working?

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The first thing to check is that the ladder is on a firm, level surface with all four feet in contact with the ground.

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You should maintain three points of contact while climbing a step ladder (two feet and one hand, or two hands and one foot).

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The Work at Height Regulations 2005 governs the use of step ladders in construction in the UK.

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A step ladder should be inspected before each use for any damage, loose parts, or wear and tear.

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Your belt buckle should remain between the side rails of the ladder while working to avoid overreaching.

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When using a step ladder, you should maintain three points of contact at all times. This typically means two hands and one foot, or two feet and one hand, ensuring stability and reducing the risk of falling.

Your belt buckle should remain between the side rails of the ladder while working to avoid overreaching.

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Short duration is not the deciding factor in establishing whether use of a ladder is acceptable – you must have first considered risk. As a guide, if your task would require staying up a leaning ladder or stepladder for more than 30 minutes at a time, it is recommended you use alternative equipment.