WORKCOVER NSW has issued a safety alert about the use of portable ladders after two incidents where painters fell from ladders.
One of the painters died, while the other sustained serious injuries. Both cases involved portable ladders and heights of approximately five metres.
According to WorkCover NSW, ladders should only be considered as an option if other safer alternatives, such as scaffolding or elevating work platforms are not reasonably practicable.
The Occupational Health and Safety Regulation 2001 clause 56 provides specific obligations on preventing falls from heights.
The codes of practice Safe work on roofs: Part 1 – commercial and industrial and Safe work on roofs: Part 2 – residential buildings provide employers, self-employed people and workers with practical advice on preventing injury to people engaged in work on roofs, including the use of ladders.
WorkCover NSW says ladders should only be used to carry out light duty work of short duration. Industrial ladders must have a load rating of 120 kg or more, whereas domestic ladders have a load rating of 100 kg. The two are not interchangeable.
The ladders, if used, should be suited for the task, in good working condition, and fitted with rubber or similar non-slip feet. The supporting surface needs to be adequate, level, and not slippery.
Ensure the ladder, when leaned against the wall or edge, has a ratio of height to horizontal distance from wall of 4:1 and is secured. Workers should always have three points of contact while ascending, descending or working from the ladder.