REASONS FOR ACCIDENTS
The following list of hazards and examples of their causes, which is not exhaustive,
are common reasons for accidents encountered when using ladders and are the basis
on which the information in this standard has been developed:
a) Loss of stability:
1) incorrect positioning of the ladder (such as not fully opening a standing ladder);
2) slide outwards at the bottom (such as bottom of the ladders sliding away from the
wall);
3) side slip, falling sideways and top flip (such as overreaching or fragile top contact
surface);
4) condition of the ladder (such as missing anti-slip feet);
5) stepping off an unsecured ladder at height;
6) ground conditions (such as unstable soft ground, sloping ground, slippery surfaces or
contaminated solid surfaces);
7) adverse weather conditions (such as windy conditions);
8) collision with the ladder (such as vehicle or door);
9) incorrect choice of ladder (such as too short, unsuitable task).
b) From handling:
1) transferring the ladder to the work position;
2) erecting and dismantling the ladder;
3) carrying items up the ladder.
c) Slip trip and fall of user:
1) inappropriate footwear;
2) contaminated rungs or steps;
3) unsafe user practices (such as climbing 2 rungs at time, sliding down stiles).
d) Structural failure of ladder:
1) condition of the ladder (such as damaged stiles, wear);
2) overloading the ladder.
e) Electrical hazards:
1) unavoidable live working (e.g. fault finding);
2) positioning ladders too close to live electrical equipment (such as overhead power
lines);
3) ladders damaging electrical equipment (such as covers or protective insulation);
4) incorrect selection of type of ladder for electrical work.
User instruction
The ladder shall be supplied and used with the present manual
Users must be formed and informed.
English
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