Econet Risk Assessment [Base Document]
Assessment: Ladder work
Scope: Activity [Task]
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Assessment Summary: Ladder work;
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Ladder work
Last updated: 01/01/2012 00:00:00
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Typical uncontrolled outcomes
Serious injuries associated with falling from height; broken bones; concussion
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Typical groups at risk
Volunteers; other site users; general public
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Insurance considerations
Econet's insurance only covers work up to heights of 5 metres.
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Hazards
- Defective ladder
- Uneven ground or unbalanced ladder
- Unexpected movement of ladder
- Falling tools or materials
- Contact with overhead power lines
- Overreaching
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Controls
- Check all rungs and both stiles are in sound condition whenever ladder is used.
- Do not use to access heights greater than 5 metres (see Insurance Considerations above).
- Do not use in high winds.
- Locate on firm, even ground at about 75 degrees to the horizontal.
- On soft or uneven ground stand firmly on level support, e.g. stout board.
- Place ladder facing work.
- Position to avoid vehicle impact.
- Do not use ladder within 5 metres of overhead power lines.
- Ladder must either be tied off or footed and must be footed while top secured.
- Volunteers at base of ladder must wear hard hats.
- Mark off or cordon area around base of ladder to prevent others approaching.
- Minimise tools and materials above ground level and secure them.
- Hoist tools and materials using rope and/or tool belt.
- Do not lean over or load the side of the ladder.
- Ladder should extend at least 1 metre beyond highest rung to be stood on unless there is secure handhold to give equivalent support.
- Carry ladder between two people, with ladder at their side.
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