5. Using the ladder
•
Do not exceed the maximum total load for the type of ladder;
•
Do not overreach; user should keep their belt buckle (navel) inside the stiles and both fee:
step/rung throughout the task;
•
Do not step off a leaning ladder at a higher level without additional security, such as tying off
or suitable stability device;
•
Do not use standing ladders for access to another level;
•
Do not stand on the top three steps/rungs of a leaning ladder;
•
Do not stand on the top two steps/rungs of a standing ladder without a platform and hand/knee rail;
•
Do not stand on the top four steps/rungs of a standing ladder with an extending ladder at the top;
•
Ladders should only be used for light work of short duration;
•
Use non-conductive ladders for unavoidable live electrical work;
•
Do not use the ladder outside in adverse weather conditions, such as strong wind;
•
Take precautions against children playing on the ladder;
•
Secure doors (not fire exits) and windows where possible in the work area;
•
Face the ladder when ascending and descending;
•
Keep a secure grip on the ladder when ascending and descending;
•
Do not use the ladder as a bridge;
•
Wear suitable footwear when climbing a ladder;
•
Avoid excessive side loadings e.g. drilling brick and concrete;
•
Do not spend long periods on a ladder without regular breaks (tiredness is a risk);
•
Leaning ladders used for access to a higher level should be extended at least 1 m. above the
landing point;
•
Equipment carried while using a ladder should be light and easy to handle;
•
Avoid work that imposes a sideways load on standing ladders, such as side-on drilling throu-
gh solid materials (e.g. brick or concrete);
•
Maintain a handhold whilst working from a ladder or take additional safety precautions if
you cannot.
For EN131-7 (Only valid for mobile ladders with platform) ;
•
For outdoor use caution to the wind.
•
Use only with activated brakes.
•
To use only with stabilizers. (If available).
6. Repair, Maintenance and Storage
•
Repairs and maintenance shall be carried out by a competent person and be in accordance
producer's instructions.
A Competent person is someone who has the skills to carry out repairs or mainte-
•
NOTE
nance, e.g. by a training by the manufacturer.
•
For repair and replacement of parts, e.g. feet, if necessary contact the producer or distributor.
•
Ladders should be stored in accordance with the producer's instructions.
•
Ladders made of or using thermoplastic, thermosetting plastic and reinforced plastic materi-
als should be stored out of direct sunlight.
•
Ladders made of wood should be stored in a dry place and shall not be coated with opaque
and vapour-tight paints.
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