Since the
implementation of the
Working
at Height Regulations 2005, there has been
much unofficial debate in the working environment
regarding whether stepladders were actually banned
by the HSE.
In an article on
their official website the Executive has now
explained the general rules and principles that
should apply when using such equipment.
Step ladders are not
banned because frankly for may jobs there is no
better solution and that means that in some
instances using them instead of more cumbersome
ladders may actually prove safer. There is however
a big BUT added to this comment - from the
official site:
"For straightforward, short duration work
stepladders and ladders can be a good option, but
you wouldn’t want to be wobbling about on them
doing complex tasks for long periods. A large
number of workers are seriously injured or killed
using ladders and stepladders each year.
So
essentially its a question, as ever, of risk
assessment and suitability for the job. There is
no ban in force but equally the Working at Height
Regulations do impose strict liability on
employers and all businesses must be aware of the
risks.
If
you have been
injured working at height in an accident at work,
you may be
able to claim compensation. Contact us for an off
the record discussion today.
