Choose according to the task, working height, duration, surface and available support. Step ladders suit many freestanding jobs, extension ladders provide leaning access, and specialist roof or loft products should be used for those locations.
Safe Access Equipment for Work at Height
Ladders provide temporary access for short-duration, lower-risk work where a risk assessment shows that this equipment is suitable. MacBlair stocks step ladders for freestanding access, extension models for greater reach, multi-purpose configurations, roof ladders and dedicated loft access products. The task, height, ground conditions and need for a handhold should guide the choice. A correct match reduces awkward repositioning and unnecessary carrying between work areas.
For vertical reach against a sound upper surface, extension ladders offer adjustable length. A-frame and combination options suit jobs where no wall support is available, while roof ladders are made for specialist roof access. Loft ladders and loft access equipment create a more consistent route to roof-space storage than carrying a portable ladder through the house. Measure the access height and clear floor space before comparing products.
Ladders should be inspected before use for damaged stiles, rungs, feet, locks and fixings. Set leaning ladders at roughly one unit out for every four units up, secure them against slipping and maintain three points of contact. Do not overreach, overload the ladder or stand it on boxes, pallets or loose materials. Keep light tools in a belt or holster so both hands remain available for climbing. Stop work if conditions change or the equipment becomes unstable.
Only use Ladders on firm, level ground and within the manufacturer's instructions and load rating. Work at height should be avoided where it can reasonably be completed from the ground, and a platform or scaffold may be more suitable for longer or strenuous tasks. For adaptable setups, multi-purpose ladders can change configuration, but every hinge and lock must be rechecked after adjustment. Record workplace inspections where the site procedure requires documented checks.
Ladders FAQs
Position the base approximately one unit away from the wall for every four units of vertical height, creating an angle of about 75 degrees. The ladder must also be secured against slipping and rest against a sound surface.
Carry out a pre-use check before each working day and after anything that could have damaged the ladder. Formal inspections should follow the risk assessment, use pattern, manufacturer guidance and workplace requirements.
Ladders are intended for lower-risk, short-duration work when more suitable equipment is not justified by the assessment. HSE guidance treats work lasting up to about 30 minutes at a time as short duration, but duration alone does not make a task safe.
It normally means two feet and one hand remain in contact with the ladder. Where both hands are briefly needed on a stepladder, two feet and the body can provide contact if the equipment and task allow it.