At the end of this part you should know
BS numbers and how step ladders are classified
How to erect a step ladder
How to use a step ladder safely
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Safety With Step Ladders
Many different designs are available
Wooden Fibre glass & metal Combination
Safety With Step Ladders – Types of Step ladder
BS 1129:1990 (British) applies to wooden ladders
BS 2037:1994 (British) applies to metal ladders
BS EN 131:1993 (European) applies to both
BS 7377:1994 (British) applies to step-stools
Class 1 (Industrial)Duty rating 130kg (20 stone) - Maximum vertical static load 175kg
Class 3 (Domestic)Duty rating 95kg (15 stone) - Maximum vertical static load 125kg
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European Standard stepladders to BS/EN 131 (All types)
Previous Class 2)Duty rating 115kg (18 stone) - Maximum vertical static load 150kg
Safety With Step Ladders - Standards & Classifications
Daily pre-use check (feet included)
Ensure there is space to fully open
Use any locking devices
Ground should be firm and level
Floors should be clean, not slippery
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Safety With Step Ladders – Step ladder set up
Short duration work (maximum 30 minutes)
Light work (up to 10 kg)
Do not work off the top two steps (top three steps for swing-back/double-sided stepladders) unless you have a safe handhold on the steps.
Avoid side-on working
Do not overreach – make sure your belt buckle (navel) stays within the stiles and keep both feet on the same rung or step throughout the task
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Safety With Step Ladders – Step ladders in use
Bent rear right hand stile – beyond repair
Missing foot, will lead to wobble and reduced slip resistance – Could be repaired
Safety With Step Ladders – Step ladder defects
Damaged restraint connection – Beyond repair hole in stile has been
worn or made larger
Split stile – Class 1 industrial steps. Beyond repair
Safety With Step Ladders – Step ladder defects
Bent back bar, this reduces the rigidity of the stepladder – defect should be
replaced
Safety With Step Ladders – Step Ladder defects
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