Ladders and stepladders are necessary for short duration work at height.
Where possible, it is better to avoid their use, for example by not storing items at height, or using long handled poles to clean at height.
Accidents may be caused because ladders are not used correctly or because they are not being maintained in a safe condition.
Anyone who needs to use a ladder or stepladder for their work should be shown the correct way to use it and how to carry out pre-use checks.
In addition ladders should have a formal inspection at least annually and records of the inspection should be kept in a ladder register. Please contact Estates and Facilities if you would like them to carry out your annual ladder inspections.
The Ladder Association's brief guide: Safe Use of Ladders and Stepladders (LA455) [PDF] provides guidance on sensible precautions when using ladders and stepladders for work.
The Ladder Association has also published some Toolbox Talks covering: