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SLIC WG MACHEX SUB-WG “Use of Portable Ladders”
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USE OF PORTABLE LADDERS
Machex Sub-WG: Cyprus, Denmark, Greece, Netherlands,
Portugal, Spain and UK.
Machex 2017_12
2018_05_A
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Index
Objective 3
Time Schedule 3
Legal Background 4
Requirements Stated in the Directive 5
References 6
National Practices for the Use of Portable Ladders 10
Index of Acronyms 36
Annex A - Step-by-step Diagram for the Use of Portable Ladders 37
Annex B - Checklist for the Use of Portable Ladders 42
Annex B1 - Examples of National Requirements from EU Member´s and
Norway which may be included in the Checklist 56
Annex C - Examples of Good Practices Regarding use of Portable Ladders, not
included in the WEDIR 59
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USE OF PORTABLE LADDERS
Machex Sub-WG: Cyprus, Denmark, Greece, Netherlands,
Portugal, Spain and UK.
Objective
As agreed at the Machex meeting 2-3 March 2016 (agenda item 8) it was
decided to form a group to produce an informative document with the practices of the Member States, for comparison.
The group is comprised of Cyprus, Denmark, Greece, Netherlands, Portugal, Spain and the UK.
The working group compared the national requirements in force in 24 Member States and Norway.
KSS was used to exchange information between the Member States and the
Sub-WG through a questionnaire. The group decided to prepare two informative documents with the good
practices of the Member States: a step-by-step diagram - see in Annex A, and a checklist for the use of portable ladders - see in Annex B. Both of them are
non-binding guides.
After receiving the national practices from 24 Member States and Norway, the group decided to highlight examples of good practices regarding use of
portable ladders not included in the WEDIR. These requirements may be taken into account in a potential future review of the WEDIR, and eventual revision of
the Member States legislation.
Time Schedule
Work by email / SubWG comments Till 20.12.2016
Work by email / SubWG comments – 2-ª round
Till 25.01.2017
1st SubWG meeting 07.03.2017 (day before Machex meeting)
First Draft – Machex Meeting 8-9 March 2017
Machex Members comments Till 30.04.2017
SLIC WG MACHEX SUB-WG “Use of Portable Ladders”
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Work by email / SubWG comments – 3-ª round
Till 15.09.2017
2nd SubWG meeting 26.10.2017
Work by email / SubWG comments – 4-ª round
15.12.2017
SubWG Chair will send the document to the Machex Chair for comments from the
Machex Members by 15.02.2018
15.01.2018
Work by email / Chair will send final
document to the subgroup– 5-ª round
28.02.2018
Work by email / SubWG comments 14.03.2018
3nd SubWG meeting 20.03.2018 (morning)
Final document 21.03.2018
SLIC approval 2018
Document available to the public
(Commission website)
End of 2018
Legal background
“DIRECTIVE 2009/104/EC OF THE EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT AND OF THE COUNCIL of 16 September 2009 concerning the minimum safety and health requirements for the use of work equipment by workers at work (second
individual Directive within the meaning of Article 16 of Directive 89/391/EEC).
ANNEX II - PROVISIONS CONCERNING THE USE OF WORK EQUIPMENT
4. Provisions concerning the use of work equipment provided for temporary work at a height.
4.1. General provisions
4.1.1. If, pursuant to Article 6 of Directive 89/391/EEC and Article 3 of this Directive, temporary work at a height cannot be carried out safely and under
appropriate ergonomic conditions from a suitable surface, the work equipment most suitable to ensure and maintain safe working conditions must be selected. Collective protection measures must be given priority over personal
protection measures. The dimensions of the work equipment must be appropriate to the nature of the work to be performed and to the foreseeable
stresses, and must allow passage without danger.
The most appropriate means of access to temporary workplaces at a height must be selected according to the frequency of passage, the height to be
negotiated and the duration of use. The choice made must permit evacuation
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in the event of imminent danger. Passage in either direction between a means of access and platforms, decks or gangways must not give rise to any additional risks of falling.
4.1.2. Ladders may be used as work stations for work at a height only under circumstances in which, given point 4.1.1, the use of other, safer work
equipment is not justified because of the low level of risk and by reason of either the short duration of use or existing features on site that the employer cannot alter.
4.2. Specific provisions regarding the use of ladders
4.2.1. Ladders must be so positioned as to ensure their stability during use.
Portable ladders must rest on a stable, strong, suitably sized, immobile footing so that the rungs remain horizontal. Suspended ladders must be attached in a secure manner and, with the exception of rope ladders, in such a way that
they cannot be displaced and swinging is prevented.
4.2.2. The feet of portable ladders must be prevented from slipping during use
by securing the uprights at or near their upper or lower ends, by any anti-slip device or by any other arrangement of equivalent effectiveness. Ladders used for access must be long enough to protrude sufficiently beyond the access
platform, unless other measures have been taken to ensure a firm handhold. Interlocking ladders and extension ladders must be used in such a way that
the different sections are prevented from moving relative to one another. Mobile ladders must be prevented from moving before they are stepped on.
4.2.3. Ladders must be used in such a way that a secure handhold and secure
support are available to workers at all times. In particular, if a load has to be carried by hand on a ladder, it must not preclude the maintenance of a safe
handhold.
Requirements stated in the Directive
Number 1 – General Requirements
The most appropriate means of access to temporary workplaces at a height
must be selected according to the frequency of passage, the height to be negotiated and the duration of use.
Number 2 – Ladders used as work stations
Ladders may be used as work stations for work at a height only under circumstances in which, given point 4.1.1, the use of other, safer work
equipment is not justified because of the low level of risk and by reason of either the short duration of use or existing features on site that the employer cannot alter.
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Number 3 – Ladders Stability
Ladders must be so positioned as to ensure their stability during use.
Number 4 – Base and immobilization of the ladder
Portable ladders must rest on a stable, strong, suitably-sized, immobile footing so that the rungs remain horizontal.
Number 5 – Suspended ladders
Suspended ladders must be attached in a secure manner and, with the exception of rope ladders, in such a way that they cannot be displaced and
swinging is prevented.
Number 6 - Access point and the ladder
Ladders used for access must be long enough to protrude sufficiently beyond the access platform, unless other measures have been taken to ensure a firm handhold.
Number 7 – Interlocking ladders and extension ladders
Interlocking ladders and extension ladders must be used in such a way that
the different sections are prevented from moving relative to one another.
Number 8 – Mobile ladders
Mobile ladders must be prevented from moving before they are stepped on.
Number 9 – Secure handhold and secure support
Ladders must be used in such a way that a secure handhold and secure support are available to workers at all times. In particular, if a load has to be carried by hand on a ladder, it must not preclude the maintenance of a safe
handhold.
Number 10 – Prevention of slipping
The feet of portable ladders must be prevented from slipping during use by securing the uprights at or near their upper or lower ends, by any anti-slip device or by any other arrangement of equivalent effectiveness.
References:
2009_104 (n.d.) DIRECTIVE 2009/104/EC OF THE EUROPEAN
PARLIAMENT AND OF THE COUNCIL of 16 September 2009 concerning
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the minimum safety and health requirements for the use of work
equipment by workers at work (second individual Directive within the
meaning of Article 16).
Non-binding guide to good practice for implementing Directive
2001/45/EC (Work at a height) (2006).
EN 131-3. (n.d.) - Ladders - User Instructions. Requirements for the use of portable ladders – Doc. 2016-07 – CIRCABC
Presidential Decree 155/2004 (GR).
Presidential Decree No. 778/1980 (GR).
Presidential Decree of 22/29th-12-1933 (GR).
Pres. Decree 1073/1981 (GR).
The Work at Height Regulations 2005 (UK).
Working at Height- A Brief Guide (INDG401 rev. 2, April 2013) (UK)
Safe Use of Ladders and Stepladders – A Brief Guide (INDG455 January
2014) (UK).
Executive order number 1109 of 1992 December 15th Annex I (DK)
ACT (2015) Oficio-Circular n.º 12/DirACT/15 – Utilização de Escadas
Portáteis na Construção Civil e Obras Públicas (PT).
ACT Decreto 41821 (1958) - Regulamento de Segurança no Trabalho da
Construção Civil (PT).
ACT Portaria 53 (1971) - Regulamento Geral de Segurança e Higiene do
Trabalho dos Estabelecimentos Industriais (PT).
Decreto-Lei 50/2005 (2005) – Prescrições mínimas de segurança e
saúde na utilização de equipamentos de trabalho (PT).
Article 7.23a - Working Conditions Decree (NL).
Order of 2012 – P.I: 131/2012 - Code of Practice for Work at Height
(CY).
RD 1215/97, reformado 2005. Reglamento por el que se establecen las
disposiciones mínimas de seguridad y salud para el uso de trabajadores
de equipos de trabajo. Anexo II - Uso de equipos de trabajos temporales
en altura. (ES).
Convenio Colectivo Nacional para el sector de la construcción (2012),
Capitulo II, Uso de Equipos de trabajo en altura. (ES).
Guía técnica del INSHT para la evaluación y prevención de los riesgos
laborales relativo a la utilización de equipos de trabajo. (ES).
BetrSichV Anhang. (DE).
Safety, Health and Welfare at Work (General Application) Regulations
2007 – Regulations 100. (IE).
Work at Height Regulations Guide. (IE)
Information Sheet - Using Ladders Safely. (IE)
AFS 2006:4 Provisions of the Swedish Work Environment Authority on
Use of Work Equipment. (SE)
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AFS 2004:3 Provisions of the Swedish Work Environment Authority on
Ladders and Trestles. (SE) - https://www.av.se/en/work-environment-
work-and-inspections/publications/foreskrifter/.
Governmental Decision nr. 1146/2006 regarding minimum health and
safety requirements for the using of technical equipments by workers at
the workplace. (RO)
General Regulations on Use of Work Equipment, approved by the
Minister of Social Security and Labour, on 22/12/1999. (LT)
Safety and Health Regulations in Construction DT 5-00, approved by the
Chief State Labour Inspector of the Republic of Lithuania, on
22/12/2000. (LT)
Rules on health and Safety requirements for the use of work equipment.
(SI)
Royal Decree of 31 August 2005 on use of work equipment for
temporary works at a height. (BE)
Legal reference: Art. 55(3); Art. 57; Art. 58 (1), (2), (3), (4), (5), (6)
and (7) of Decree No. 10/2016. (IV. 5.) NGM issued by the Minister for
National Economy. (HU)
Ordinance No 2 of 22 March 2004 concerning the minimum
requirements for safety and health at work, carrying out general
construction work. (BG)
"Labor protection requirements working at heights" adopted on 18 March 2014. (LV)
§8a (1) point 4 of the Regulation of the Minister of Economy of 30 October 2002 on minimum occupational safety and health requirements
when operating machinery by workers at work. (PL) AM-VO … Arbeitsmittelverordnung (Regulation for work equipment).
(AT)
ASchG … ArbeitnehmerInnenschutzgesetz (Health and Safety at Work Act. (AT)
Government of the Republic established 11.01.2000 regulation „Occupational health and safety requirements for the use of work equipment “which regulates also use of ladders. (EE)
Government Decree on the Safe Use and Inspection of Work Equipment (403/2008). (FI)
In the Construction Sites, the Government Decree on the Safety of Construction Work (205/2009) is being applied (implementing Directive 92/57/EEC). (FI)
In all sectors of working life the Occupational Safety and Health Act (738/2002) (implementing Directive 89/391/EEC). (FI)
Regulation of the Government of the Slovak Republic No. 392/2006 Coll. on the minimum safety and health requirements for the use of working equipment. (SK)
Government Decree No. 362/2005 of the Czech Code Collection (Decree on Detailed Requirements for Occupational Health and Safety in
SLIC WG MACHEX SUB-WG “Use of Portable Ladders”
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Workplaces with a Danger of a fall from Height or into a Depth, Appendix III – The Use of Ladders). (CZ)
Regulations concerning the Performance of Work, use of work
equipment and related technical requirements of 21. June 2016, chapter
17 Work at Height. (NO)
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Requirements of
Directive 2009/104/EC National Practices for the use of portable ladders - National approach
Number 1 – General Requirements
The most appropriate means of access to
temporary workplaces at a height must be selected
according to the
frequency of passage, the height to be negotiated
and the duration of use.
(UK) Every employer, in selecting work equipment for use in work at height, shall:
(a)give collective protection measures priority over personal protection measures; and
(b)take account of:
(i) the working conditions and the risks to the safety of persons at the place where the work
equipment is to be used;
(ii) in the case of work equipment for access and egress, the distance to be negotiated;
(iii) the distance and consequences of a potential fall;
(iv) the duration and frequency of use;
(v) the need for easy and timely evacuation and rescue in an emergency;
(vi) any additional risk posed by the use, installation or removal of that work equipment or
by evacuation and rescue from it; and
(vii) the other provisions of these Regulations.
(NL) Article 7.23, section 1, Working Conditions Decree - If temporary work at height is
not safe and can be performed under appropriate ergonomic conditions from a suitable
surface, the most suitable work equipment is to be adopted to ensure safe working
conditions and to be enforced. To achieve this, one is required to get collective
security priority over personal protection. One chooses the most appropriate means
of access to the temporary workplace at height depending on the use, the height and the
duration of use.
(CY) According to the provisions of the legislation, the portable ladders can be used
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Requirements of Directive 2009/104/EC
National Practices for the use of portable ladders - National approach
based on risk assessment and only for short duration work with very low risk and where
the existence of technical limitations does not allow the use of other safer equipment.
(DE) The most appropriate means of access to temporary workplaces at a height must
be selected, the height to be negotiated, the kind of use, the duration of use and the
frequency of use.
(IE) An employer shall:
(a) in selecting work equipment for use in work at height give collective protection
measures priority over personal protection measures, and take account of the following:
(I) the working conditions and the risks to the safety and health of
employees at the place where the work equipment is to be used;
(II) in the case of work equipment for access and egress, the distance
and height to be negotiated;
(III) the distance of a potential fall and the risk of personal injury;
(IV) the duration and frequency of use of the equipment;
(V) the need for easy and timely evacuation and rescue in an
emergency;
(VI) any additional risk posed by the use, installation or removal of that work
equipment or by evacuation and rescue from it;
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Requirements of Directive 2009/104/EC
National Practices for the use of portable ladders - National approach
(VII) the other requirements of this Part, and
(b) select work equipment for work at height that has characteristics, including
dimensions that are appropriate to the nature of the work to be performed and the
foreseeable loadings, allows safe passage, and in other respects, is the most suitable work
equipment, having regard in particular to Regulation 98.
(HU) The same as the original Directive 2009/104/EC. In addition: In case of danger,
the possibility to escape and rescue shall be ensured.
(EE) § 12 section 5, states that ladders may be used as work stations for work at a
height only in exceptional cases under circumstances in which the use of other, safer
work equipment is not justified because of the low level of risk and by reason of either the
short duration of use or existing features on site that the employer cannot alter.
(AT) Leaning ladder: just short time working allowed in space within reach and workers
must be trained, skilled and physically fit (§ 36/6 AM-VO). Stepladder: If standing height
> 3m: just short time working allowed in space within reach and workers must be trained,
skilled and physically fit (§ 37/4 AM-VO).
(LV) According to the Cabinet Regulations the following conditions shall be taken into
account:
- the performance of height, surmountable height and access opportunities to the
workplace;
- the type of work, working conditions and the intended changes;
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Requirements of Directive 2009/104/EC
National Practices for the use of portable ladders - National approach
- the duration of work and workers frequency of movement;
- durability of work surface, protective equipment installation options, including security point strength as well as specifics of work equipment used;
- flammability, explosiveness, electrical hazards and other risk factors probability;
- rescue possible in exceptional circumstances;
- weather conditions;
- worker’s state of health.
(PL) §8a (1) point 4 of the Regulation of the Minister of Economy of 30 October 2002 on
minimum occupational safety and health requirements when operating machinery by
workers at work: If temporary work at height may not be performed safely and in accordance with ergonomic conditions from appropriate surface, then the most
appropriate means enabling safe access to temporary workplaces at height shall be selected, adequately to: the difference in height, the frequency of passage and the
duration of use of the selected means.
(FI) The employer shall, taking the nature of the work and activities into account,
systematically and adequately analyse and identify the hazards and risk factors caused by the work, the working premises, other aspects of the working environment
and the working conditions and, if the hazards and risk factors cannot be eliminated, assess their consequences to the employees’ safety and health.
(CZ) A ladder may be used to work at a height only if the use of other safer devices is not reasonable and practical with respect to risk assessment or if local conditions related
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Requirements of Directive 2009/104/EC
National Practices for the use of portable ladders - National approach
to the work at a height make the use of such devices impossible
(NO) Employer shall, when planning and performance of work at height, assess the risk to ensure the work is performed in a safe manner.
The risk assessment shall especially consider that:
a) collective fall protection shall be prioritized before personal fall protection;
b) the work equipment is dimensioned for the work that shall be performed and for predictable loads;
c) scaffoldings are stable and the base have a sufficient load capacity to take the loads that will be charged;
d) the work is carried out according ergonomic principles from a suitable surface. If this is not possible shall the employer chose the work equipment which in a
best possible way maintain safe work conditions;
e) access routes shall be adapted according to how often the employees move,
the period for which it will be used, and the height of the access route;
f) access routes can be used for evacuation in an emergency situation;
g) there must be no risk of falling when moving between the access route and the
work platform, scaffolding decks and gangways;
h) safeguards shall be installed to prevent falls where necessary. Collective fall arrest
guards may only end where access is provided by ladder or stairs.
When it is necessary in connection with a particular task to remove guard rails or other
collective fall protection, safety measures shall be implemented to compensate for this
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Requirements of Directive 2009/104/EC
National Practices for the use of portable ladders - National approach
before the task is carried out. When the task is finally completed or temporarily
suspended, the collective fall protection shall be reinstalled.
(GR) / (DK) / (PT) / (ES) / (BE) / (SE) / (RO) / (BG)/ (LT) / (HR) / (SK) / (SI)
- The same as the Directive 2009/104/EC.
Number 2 – Ladders used as work stations
Ladders may be used as work stations for work at
a height only under circumstances in which,
given point 4.1.1, the use of other, safer work
equipment is not justified
because of the low level of risk and by reason of
either the short duration of use or existing features
on site that the employer cannot alter.
(GR) The nature of the work that can be done with the use of a portable ladder has been
briefly described in the 2001/45 EC Directive. Regarding especially the construction
works, in accordance with Presidential Decree No. 778/1980, portal ladders can be used in
“light and limited” works as the responsible person has considered provided that this can
be done safely
(UK) Every employer shall ensure that a ladder is used for work at height only if a risk
assessment under regulation 3 of the Management Regulations has demonstrated that the use of
more suitable work equipment is not justified because of the low risk and:
(a) the short duration of use; or
(b) existing features on site, which he cannot alter.
(ES) The use of a ladder may be justified when, as a result of the risk assessment, it
follows that the risk is low. One factor to consider is the type of site in which the work is
to be carried out. For example, a space reduced may be a limitation for the use of another
type of work equipment (guide of INSHT).
(DE) Ladders may be used as work stations for work at a height …only under
circumstances in which:
a) the use of other, safer work equipment is not justified because of the low level of
risk and either the short duration of use and
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Requirements of Directive 2009/104/EC
National Practices for the use of portable ladders - National approach
b) the result of the hazard assessment is that the work can be done safely.“
(IE) An employer shall ensure that a ladder is used for work at height only if the risk
assessment has demonstrated that the use of more suitable work equipment is not
justified because the level of risk is low, and the duration of use is short, or existing
features at the place of work cannot be altered.
(SE) A ladder may only be used as an access route and for brief work from the ladder.
Work from a ladder may only take place is the risks associated with using a ladder are
so small that other and safer equipment is not justified.
(BG) 2.1. Based on risk assessment and where the choice in relation to the above-said
cases is not justified, it is allowed to use ladders for workplaces at a height for short
duration of the work or in case of existing features on the work site that the employer
cannot alter.
Portable ladders shall be used to carry out general construction work, where :
- it is impossible or inappropriate to use stationary ladders, mechanically driven
ladders, scaffoldings, working platforms and other more comfortable and safer
facilities ;
- there is no ban on their use to carry out the respective type of work in accordance with
Ordinance No 2 of 22 March 2004 ;
- the task does not involve holding of bulky or heavy loads (shuttering, beams,
boards, etc.);
- no loads are carried that are heavier than 0.2 kN (in case of extension ladders –
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Requirements of Directive 2009/104/EC
National Practices for the use of portable ladders - National approach
more than 0.1 kN), or it is not necessary to hold the load with both hands ;
- they are not placed in the immediate vicinity of openings in floors and walls,
close to sharp protruding objects, open containers with dangerous liquids and
chemicals, etc., due to which the scale of the injuries may increase ;
- the nature of the task does not require simultaneous execution by more than
one person on the same ladder ;
- the weight of the person, using the ladder with or without extra load, does not
exceed its carrying capacity.
(AT) Leaning ladder: just short-time working allowed in space within reach and
workers must be trained, skilled and physically fit (§ 36/6 AM-VO). Stepladder: If
standing height > 3m: just short-time working allowed in space within reach and
workers must be trained, skilled and physically fit (§ 37/4 AM-VO).
(LV) Working at a height, ladders may only be used if the risk to the safety and health is
minimized and where the equipment is used for a short time or working area has specific circumstances those an employer cannot be able to change or modify. Choosing ladders’
type required for work, in addition to the working environment risk assessment, the following factors shall be taken into account:
- surmountable height difference between the base and the working area and the frequency of movement on ladders;
- the duration of the work on ladders and working conditions; - ladders’ load-bearing capacity and the expected workload, including
weight and parameters of mobile materials and tools; - power lines or other electrical existence, which can cause risk of
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Requirements of Directive 2009/104/EC
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electrical shock.
(FI) A leaning ladder may not be used as work platform. The use of ladders must be planned in an appropriate manner. Leaning ladders may only be used as temporary
means of access, for securing and loosening lifting accessories and for other similar one-time work of short duration. The length of the leaning ladder may not exceed 6
metres. The employer must assess the risks involved in the used of ladders and the significance of the risks. Workers using ladders must be provided with training and
instructions on the safe use of ladders and the risks involved in their use.
(CZ) Only short-term works that are not physically demanding may be conducted on
a ladder; hand tools shall be used to conduct the works. Any works that require any use of dangerous equipment or tools (such as portable chainsaws or hand
compressed-air tools) shall not be conducted on a ladder.
(DK) / (PT) / (NL) / (CY) / (EE) / (BE) / (PL) / (RO) / (LT) / (HR) / (HU) /
(SK) / (SI) / (NO) - The same as the Directive 2009/104/EC.
Number 3 – Ladders Stability
Ladders must be so positioned as to ensure
their stability during use.
(GR) There is no specific guideline concerning this matter. For portable ladders settled
in pavements, corridors etc., where there is frequent passage of people, a
manual supplementary support by one or more workers is needed, (Presidential
Decree of 22/29th-12-1933).
(CY) For the installation of portable ladders, the rule regarding the shape 1
(distance) x 4 (height) is a requirement.
(ES) The ladders are placed, as far as possible, at an angle of 75 degrees to the
horizontal.
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Requirements of Directive 2009/104/EC
National Practices for the use of portable ladders - National approach
(DE) Ladders must be so positioned as to ensure their stability and accessibility during
use. Ladders must be additionally prevented from turning over if so warranted by
the type of work to be performed.
(AT) Ladders must be so positioned as to avoid sliding away and falling over (§
34/2/3, 4 AM-VO). Leaning ladder: tilt must be between 3:1 and 4:1. Length must
not exceed 8 m, except special measures against falling over were taken. The
length of single stepped ladders may not exceed 4 m. If the standing height
exceeds 5 m and no PPE against fall is used, constructive measures to stabilize
the ladder must be taken (§ 36/1 and § 36/7/2 AM/VO).
(BG) Ladders shall be selected by type and size to be comfortable and safe while used.
Ladders shall be positioned in a safe way, guaranteeing their stability and not
allowing their displacement during use. Ladders shall have sufficient strength
and shall be safeguarded, properly maintained and used on the appropriate
locations in accordance with their purpose. Portable ladders shall be used to
carry out general construction work, where:
- the terrain or the floor is flat and non-slippery and it is not necessary to hold
by hand any of the arms of two-armed ladders;
- they are secured against rollover.
(FI) Ladders must be placed in such a way that they stand steadily during the use. Leaning ladders must not be used as work platform.
(UK) / (DK) / (PT) / (NL) / (IE) / (SE) / (BE) / (EE) / (RO) / (LT) / (LV) / (HU) / (PL) / (HR) / (SK) / (SI) / (CZ) / (NO) - The same as the Directive
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Requirements of Directive 2009/104/EC
National Practices for the use of portable ladders - National approach
2009/104/EC.
Number 4 – Base and immobilization of the
ladder
Portable ladders must
rest on a stable, strong, suitably-sized, immobile
footing so that the rungs remain horizontal.
(GR) According to Presidential Decree of 22/29th-12-1933, portable ladders must either
have anti-slip safety feet at the bottom of their side rails or be firmly supported on the
ground in general, if they exceed the height of 3 m.
(UK) Any surface upon which a ladder rests shall be stable, firm, of sufficient strength and of
suitable composition safely to support the ladder so that its rungs or steps remain horizontal, and
any loading intended to be placed on it.
A portable ladder shall be prevented from slipping during use by:
(a) securing the stiles at or near their upper or lower ends;
b) an effective anti-slip or other effective stability device; or
(c) any other arrangement of equivalent effectiveness.
(CY) According to the provisions of the legislation, the portable ladders must be secured
both at lower and at the upper part in order to avoid slipping or topple during use aced on a
strong, stable, horizontal and non-slippery ground. There must be enough free space around
the ladder.
(AT) Ladders must stand at sustainable ground or at a base, which spreads the load (§
34/2/3, 4 AM-VO).
(DK) / (PT) / (NL) / (ES) / (DE) / (IE) / (BE) / (SE) / (EE) / (RO) / (BG) / (LT)
/ (HR) / (HU) / (LV) / (PL) / (FI) / (SK) / (SI) / (CZ) / (NO) - The same as the Directive 2009/104/EC.
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Number 5 – Suspended ladders
Suspended ladders must be attached in a secure
manner and, with the exception of rope ladders,
in such a way that they cannot be displaced and
swinging is prevented
(DE) Suspended ladders must be protected against being unhooked inadvertently.
They must be attached in a secure manner and, with the exception of rope ladders, so
that they cannot be displaced and so that swinging is prevented.
(BG) Suspended ladders must be attached in a secure manner, not allowing swinging
movements. Suspended metal ladders with a length exceeding 5 m shall be
equipped with protective metal hoops, linked vertically. In case of general
construction work, the use of suspended ladders shall be allowed, by way of
exception, with the permission of the Technical Manager, provided they are
metallic, accompanying documentation from the manufacturer is available and
they are attached in a secure manner, at the upper end, to a suitable structural
component. No use of suspended metal ladders shall be allowed, where the
worker is not safeguarded with a safety harness, attached to a structural
component or to the ladder.
(CZE) A hanging ladder shall be fixed using a safe method and secured against moving or swinging except for rope ladders.
(GR) / (UK) / (DK) / (PT) / (NL) / (CY) / (ES) / (IE) / (SE) / (AT) / (BE) /
(RO) / (LT) / (HR) / (PL) / (LV) / (HU) / (EE) / (FI) / (SK) / (SI) / (NO) - The
same as the Directive 2009/104/EC.
Number 6 - Access
point and the ladder
Ladders used for access
must be long enough to
(GR) All ladders that are used for access to an upper floor or a roof should extend at
least 80 cm above the floor or the roof, as indicated in Presidential Decree of 22/29th-
12-1933. In case of an excavation in a construction site, a ladder must extend at
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protrude sufficiently
beyond the access platform, unless other
measures have been taken to ensure a firm
handhold.
least 1 m above the edge of an excavation, according to Pres. Decree 1073/1981.
(PT) (DL 50/2005) Ladders used for access must be long enough to protrude at least
90 cm beyond the access platform, unless other measures have been taken to ensure a
firm handhold.
(NL) Article 7.23a, section 2b, Working Conditions Decree - Access ladders must protrude at
least 1 meter beyond the access platform, unless other measures are taken to ensure a grip.
(CY) The portable ladders should exceed at least 1m the landing or the top step.
(ES) Portable ladders for access purposes shall be of the length necessary to protrude at least 1
meter from the work plane accessed.
(EE). Ladders used for access must be long enough to protrude at least 1 meter beyond the
access platform, unless the ladder is permanently fastened.
(LV) Ladders used for access to the workplace at height shall be placed so that the upper part of it extends across the edge of the work platform at least 1 meter at height, if
there is no other safe possibility to hold on.
If the ladders height or it use can cause the risk of falling, the employer shall
equip ladders with the collective safeguards or ensure the use with the personal protective equipment. If the ladders height is more than 5 meters, the work
from the ladders may be carried out only using collective safeguards or collective and personal protective equipment together. If ladders are not
equipped with safety platform or another means of fall prevention are not carried out, it is forbidden to work using the upper last rungs of portable
ladders.
(BG) Ladders used for access must be long enough to protrude beyond the access
SLIC WG MACHEX SUB-WG “Use of Portable Ladders”
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platform to ensure a firm handhold of the workers using them, unless other measures
have been taken to ensure a firm handhold. To get into and out of an excavation,
ladders shall be placed with a width of at least 0.7 m, so that their upper end
shall protrude to a height of 1.0 m above the terrain.
(HU) A ladder used for access shall be long enough to protrude sufficiently above the
place of landing to which it provides access, unless other measures have been taken to
ensure a firm handhold. In addition: The overhang of the ladder must be at least 1 meter. Legal reference: Art. 58 (3) of Decree No. 10/2016. (IV. 5.) NGM issued by the
Minister for National Economy
(CZ) If ladders are used for ascending (descending), their upper ends shall
overlap the exit (entrance) platform by at least 1.1 m. This overlap may be replaced
using fixed handles or another fixed structural part onto which the ascending
(descending) employee may hold reliably. The ladder inclination shall not be less
than 2,5:1; an unobstructed space of at least 0.18 m shall be behind the rungs
and an unobstructed space of at least 0.6 m shall be kept at the bottom of the
ladder on the access side.
(NO) A ladder used to access a roof, platform or similar, shall extend at least 1 m above the
roof or platform.
When a ladder is to be used for access, it must always be secured at the
top.
(UK) / (DK) / (DE) / (BE) / (IE) / (SE) / (AT) / (PL) / (RO) / (LT) / (HR) / (FI)
/ (SK) / (SI) - The same as the Directive 2009/104/EC.
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Number 7 -
Interlocking ladders and extension ladders
Interlocking ladders and extension ladders must
be used in such a way that the different sections
are prevented from moving relative to one
another.
(GR) According to PD of 22/29th-12-1933, every extension ladder must be equipped
with a pawl, i.e. a locking mechanism preventing the upper section of the ladder from
sliding backwards.
(CY) Interlocking ladders and extension ladders must be installed and mounted so as not
to slip and wobble. It is prohibited to climb into such portable ladders if the mechanism
that stabilizes the fold of them is not correctly loaded. The portable ladders must not
extend beyond the level specified by the manufacturer.
(EE) §122 section 4 - Interlocking ladder and extension ladder must be used in such a
way that the different sections are prevented from moving relative to one another. Single
ladders must not be tied, clued or connected together using screw or nails
except when it is specified in user’s manual.
(AT) Workers are obliged to use work equipment in a correct way as they were instructed
(§ 15/2 ASchG). Employ (ers) have to take care that manuals for work equipment
are noticed (§ 35/1/2 ASchG).
(FI) Lockable multi-element combined ladders and extendable ladders must be used in such a way that the steps, limiters, joints and locking hooks remain strong and
durable in the working conditions, and that the parts cannot move in relation to each other.
(UK) / (DK) / (PT) / (NL) / (ESP) / DE) / (IE) / (SE) / (BE) / (PL) / (HU) /
(BG) / (LV) / (RO) / (LT) / (HR) / (SK) / (SI) / (CZ) / (NO) - The same as the
Directive 2009/104/EC.
Number 8 - Mobile (LV) Mobile ladders before stepping must be secured in such way that mobile ladders
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ladders
Mobile ladders must be prevented from moving
before they are stepped on.
cannot move, and to be sure of their safety and stability. It is prohibited to move the
ladders if worker is on.
(BG) Ladders shall be positioned in a safe manner, guaranteeing their stability and not
allowing their displacement during use.
(FI) The risk of movable ladders falling or their legs sliding must be prevented
by fastening their upper or lower end, using a device against sliding, or by some
other means similarly effective. Ladders on wheels must be placed in an immobile
position before stepping on them.
(GR) / (UK) / (DK) / (PT) / (NL) / (CY) / (ES) / (DE) / (IE) / (SE) / (EE) /
(PL) / (BE) / (HU) / (RO) / (LT) / (HR) / (AT) / (SK) / (SI) / (CZE) / (NO) - The
same as the Directive 2009/104/EC.
Number 9 - Secure
handhold and secure support
Ladders must be used in such a way that a secure
handhold and secure support are available to
workers at all times. In particular, if a load has to
be carried by hand on a ladder, it must not
preclude the maintenance of a safe handhold
(GR) According to Presidential Decree of 22/29th-12-1933, workers must not hold
hand tools or other materials while ascending portable ladders, but carry them
in handbags fitted on their bodies. They should not leave tools or other materials on
the ladders’ steps.
(UK) Every ladder shall be used in such a way that:
(a) a secure handhold and secure support are always available to the user; and
(b) the user can maintain a safe handhold when carrying a load unless, in the
case of a step ladder, the maintenance of a handhold is not practicable when a
load is carried, and a risk assessment under regulation 3 of the Management
Regulations has demonstrated that the use of a stepladder is justified because of:
(i) the low risk; and
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(ii) the short duration of use.
(CY) Even though there is no legal requirement for secure handhold and secure support,
the Cyprus Legislation states that it should be ensured that all persons at work during
ascending or descending to portable ladders must always have three contact
points (1 hand + 2 feet or 2 hands + 1 foot).
(ES) Work done more than 3, 5 meters high, from the point of operation to the
ground, that requiring movements or stresses dangerous to the stability of the
worker, must be carried out if an individual fall protection equipment is used or
other equivalent protection measures. Always the workers must grip the ladder and face
the ladder rungs while climbing or descending. Carry things is forbidden when the
weight of the load or the dimension can compromise the safety of the worker.
(IE) An employer shall ensure that a ladder is used in such a way that a secure handhold
and secure support are always available to the employee and, the employee can maintain a safe handhold when carrying a load unless, in the case of a stepladder, the maintenance
of a handhold is not practicable when a load is carried, and the risk assessment has demonstrated that the use of a stepladder is justified because the level of risk is low, and
the duration of use is short.
(CZ) When climbing a ladder, climbing down a ladder or working on a ladder, the
employee shall face the ladder as well as the employee shall have a reliable
support and a possibility of gripping the ladder safely at every moment.
(DK) / (PT) / (NL) / (DE) / (BE) / (SE) / (EE) / (PL) / (LV) / (HU) / (BG) /
(RO) / (LT) / (HR) / (AT) / (FI) / SK) / (SI) / (NO) - The same as the Directive
SLIC WG MACHEX SUB-WG “Use of Portable Ladders”
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2009/104/EC.
Number 10 – Prevention of slipping
The feet of portable
ladders must be prevented from slipping
during use by securing the uprights at or near
their upper or lower ends, by any anti-slip device or
by any other arrangement of equivalent
effectiveness
(GR) In addition to the aforementioned in Number 4 Paragraph and concerning portable
ladders which are laid against pillars or horizontal wide pipes etc., their upper
ends must have the appropriate shape or fittings so as to ensure the ladder’s
firm support, e.g. a semicircular shape (Presidential Decree of 22/29th-12-1933).
(CY) During the physical installation of portable ladders a protection at the lower and the
upper part of the ladder should be provided in order to avoid slipping or toppling thus
achieving greater stability.
If the ladder is not adequately stabilized then a second person standing on the
ground holding the ladder is required.
(SE) A ladder or trestle, which cannot be erected securely, shall be braced or
anchored.
To prevent the ladder slipping on the underlay, it is important to choose the right sort of
anti-skid devices. Examples of different types of anti-skid devices for different
surfaces are shown in figure 10 - 1) Slippery surfaces 2) Soft surfaces 3) Rough surfaces.
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The following types of ladder may be used only if braced or anchored.
- A leaning ladder exceeding 5 m in length;
- A standing stepladder with a platform and knee rest, the platform height being more
than 2 m;
- Any other stepladder exceeding 3 m in height.
(BG) Slipping of the feet of portable ladders during use shall be prevented by securing
the uprights at or near the upper and/or lower ends of the ladders, by any anti-slip device
or by any other arrangement of equivalent effectiveness. Where the said measures are
not applicable, single ladders shall be secured against slipping by a man holding
the ladder from the front or from one side of it.
(CZ) Unless otherwise specified in special legal regulations, only loads of a weight less
than 15 kg may be taken up (down) on a ladder. More than one person may not climb (climb down) a ladder or work on a ladder at the same time. An employee
may work on a ladder only if he/she is in a safe distance from the ladder top. Safe distances shall be as follows: in case of a leaning ladder, the employee´s
feet shall be at a distance of least 0.8 m from the ladder top and in case of
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stepladders, the employee´s feet shall be at least 0.5 m from the ladder top.
When working on a ladder, the employee shall be secured using personal protective devices against a fall if the employee´s feet are at a height greater
than 5 m. The employer shall ensure that ladders are inspected in accordance with their operating instructions.
(NO) Ladders shall be secured against slipping and falling sideways or coming away from
the structure.
(UK) / (DK) / (PT) / (NL) / (ES) / (DE) / (IE) / (BE) / (EE) / (RO) / (LT) / (HR)
/ (PL) / (LV) / (HU) / (AT) / (FI) / (SI) / (SK) - The same as the Directive
2009/104/EC.
Other prescriptions which are not present
in the Directive
(PT) (Portaria 53/71) : Industry
Ladders must be rigid and constructed of solid materials and free of defects and in good condition.
The wooden parts of the ladders cannot have an opaque finish that covers defects.
Double ladders should not exceed 3m. The double ladders shall be provided with articulated or other systems which prevent their sudden closing, as well as the
opening beyond the angle for which they were intended;
Portable ladders used for access must be long enough to protrude at least 1m
beyond the access point;
The articulation or attachment of two or more ladders shall be prohibited unless
they are constructed with the appropriate devices for the purpose;
It is prohibited to use ladders when surfaces are not horizontal support or don’t
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offer enough resistance;
(PT) (Decreto 41821/58) - Construction Sector
In the construction sector is legally permissible use ladders:
Only at heights up to 2.5 meters;
In ditches or trenches, up to heights of 6 meters;
At heights over 2.5 meters - without being in ditches or trenches - always
depends on the evaluation of risk exposures, and their use is restricted to
situations where the work does not justify the use of safer equipment
because of the low level of risk, short duration of use or existing features
that the employer cannot change.
(ES) Ladders shall not be used by two or more persons simultaneously. Painted
wooden ladders are forbidden (difficulties to detect defects). In construction sector
only can be used ladders made under standard. It is only allowed to go up or down
facing the ladder.
(IE) An employer shall ensure that where a ladder, or run of ladders, rises a
vertical distance of 9 m or more above its base, sufficient safe landing areas or
rest platforms are provided at suitable intervals where reasonably practicable.
(SE) The Provisions of the Swedish Work Environment Authority on Ladders and Trestles,
AFS 2004:3, are accessible on the SWEA: website https://www.av.se/en/work-
environment-work-and-inspections/publications/foreskrifter/. They contain product
requirements for ladders as well as requirements for use of ladders. The parts regarding
use are placed in sections 10-18. There are some requirements which are not parts
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of the directive, mainly placed in the sections 12-14 and in section 18:
Section 12 Only a light and manageable load may be handled on a ladder or trestle. A portable
ladder may only be climbed by one person at a time. When working from a ladder or trestle, only such tools and implements may be used as
can be safely handled from the ladder or trestle. Section 13
A ladder and trestle shall be of a length and height suitable for the purpose. When a ladder is used as an access route, access shall be possible in a safe manner. The ladder
shall be sufficiently higher than the platform to be reached with the aid of the ladder,
unless other devices already make it possible to hold on safely. Section 14
A projecting ladder at the top of a standing stepladder may not be stepped on.
Section 18
Ladders and trestles shall be maintained well and continuously inspected.
They may not be used if their mechanical strength or their safety in any other
respect is impaired.
(EE) Others statements from our legislation concerning ladders:
§ 122 Regulates use of ladders.
(1) A ladder may only be used as and how the user’s manual states.
(6) Working standing on ladder is not permitted more than 30 minutes at the
time and not more than 1/3 of the length of the working day. It is forbidden to
stand higher than on third rung or step from the top. Generally, it is not
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permitted to work on a ladder higher than 5 meters from the ground.
§ 125 section 2 states that an employer guarantees that ladders and
scaffolding is checked according to regulation established 08.12.1999 by the
Government of the Republic no 377 “Occupational health and safety regulations in
constructions” § 7 section 3. Ladders must be checked at least once a month.
§ 7 section 3 of regulations about occupational health and safety requirements in
constructions states that checks for scaffolding, ladders and working platforms
must be carried out before usage in construction site and also if they are
exposed to strong wind, heavy equipment or heavy loads or has not been
used for more than one month. Special attention must be paid to support and
protection formwork.
(PL) Regulation of the Minister of Labour and Social Policy of 26 September 1997 on
general occupational safety and health provisions. In case of works performed from
the ladder at the height exceeding 2 m above the ground or floor, it should be
ensured that workers apply measures against falls from height, appropriate to
the type of performed work, such as safety harness with a lanyard attached to
the solid parts of the structure (§110 (1) point 2).
Regulation of the Minister of Infrastructure of 6 February 2003 on occupational safety and
health in construction works. In construction works with the use of a ladder, the following
requirements shall be met:
it is allowed to perform paining work from stepladders only up to the
height of 4 m above the floor level. Ladders shall be secured against slipping
and spreading and their stability shall be ensured (§ 48);
performance of masonry and plastering works from leaning ladders is
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prohibited (§ 189);
carpentry works may only be performed from ladders if this is done at the
height of up to 3 m (§ 194);
in the course of setting struts, performance of welding works, detachment
of pre-fabricated elements from slings and concreting of contacts, only
mounting platforms or stepladders shall be used.
(LV) Ladders installation, use and dismantling are carried out in accordance with the
employer's and the manufacturer's instructions. It is prohibited to use the ladders on the scaffoldings, and separately as a scaffoldings or a bridge without securing or
without appropriate protective measures with the exception of the ladders included in construction of scaffoldings. Maximum vertical static load on the ladders shall not exceed
the manufacturer's specified maximum load on working position.
(HU) The ladder should be visually inspected before use. Damaged, distorted, incomplete ladder cannot be used. The leaning ladder has to close an angle of
60–75° with the horizontal axis, depending on the type of a ladder. Legal reference: Art. 58 (6) and (7) of Decree No. 10/2016. (IV. 5.) NGM issued by the Minister for
National Economy.
(BG) In case of a highly slippery floor and where it is impossible to secure single
ladders against slipping and rollover, two-armed ladders or platform stepladders
shall be used instead of single ladders.
The following is not allowed:
1. Extension of single or double portable ladders, except where it is provided
for by the manufacturer ;
2. Use in working position of two-armed ladders or platform step ladders, as
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National Practices for the use of portable ladders - National approach
single ones ;
3. Handling of loads while moving on a ladder, except where it is impossible
or inappropriate to carry them in any other safer manner – using a rope,
lifting devices, directly passing then from hand to hand, etc. ;
4. Moving of a ladder with a worker or objects on it ;
5. Moving of a two-armed ladder with unfolded arms, or with the effort of the
worker on it ;
6. Standing on a ladder on one leg, the other leg hanging to the side or
stepped on another object ;
7. Standing underneath a ladder, on which work is done ;
8. Placing and leaving tools, etc. on the steps of the ladder ;
9. Tossing of handheld power tools, products and the like, to a person
standing on a ladder ;
10. For a ladder to have a step as its lower and/or upper point of
support ;
11. Supporting a single ladder tilted sideways ;
12. Movement and work on ladders, where the steps are coated with
substances or stuff facilitating slipping ;
13. For the person, performing a work operation from a ladder, to take
positions that may bring it out of balance ;
14. Work from a ladder, at a height of more than 3 m from the footing of
the ladder, where the work is performed by a person not fastened with a
safety harness to a robust and secure structure.
In case of general construction work, it is not allowed to use :
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1. Portable ladders to perform tasks on walls and ceilings at a height of more
than 3.5 m and to lift loads (bricks, stones, etc.);
2. Unstable, moving structures or ones not ensuring stability (freshly painted
or frozen walls, gutters, round columns, masts, pillars, corners of buildings,
pipes, etc.) as an upper point of support to a single ladder.
(FI) In the Construction Sites, the Government Decree on the Safety of Construction
Work (205/2009) is being applied (implementing Directive 92/57/EEC). See especially
section 32.
(NO) Portable ladders higher than 6m shall not be used. Portable interlocking
ladders higher than 4m shall not be used.
In response to the questionnaire on the use of portable ladders - national practices for the use of portable ladders, we
obtained answers from 25 countries.
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Index of acronyms:
AT – Austria
BE – Belgium BG - Bulgaria
CY – Cyprus CZ – Czech Republic DE – Germany
DK - Denmark EE – Estonia
EN – European Standard ES – Spain FI – Finland
GR – Greece HR – Croatia
HU - Hungary IE – Ireland LT – Lithuania
LV – Latvia NBG – Non-binding guide (Directive 2001/45/EC) (work at height);
NL - The Netherlands NO - Norway
NR – National Requirements (from EU Members and Norway); PL – Poland
PPE - Personal Protective Equipment PT – Portugal
RO – Romania SE – Sweden SI – Slovenia
SK – Slovakia UK - United Kingdom
WEDIR – Work Equipment Directive (Directive 2009/104/EC);
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Annex A
Step-by-Step Diagram for the Use of Portable Ladders
SLIC WG MACHEX SUB-WG “Use of Portable Ladders”
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USE OF PORTABLE LADDERS
Step-by-Step Diagram
SLIC WG MACHEX SUB-WG “Use of Portable Ladders”
39
USE OF PORTABLE LADDERS
FOR ACCESS AS A WORK PLACE
LEVEL 1
IS IT POSSIBLE TO WORK
FROM THE GROUND?
IS IT POSSIBLE TO USE
WORK EQUIPMENT WITH
COLLECTIVE PROTECTION?
IS IT POSSIBLE TO USE
WORK EQUIPMENT WITH
COLLECTIVE PROTECTION?
?
DO YOU HAVE TO CARRY LOAD WITH HIGH WEIGHT /
VOLUME?
YES YES
NO
LADDER MAY
BE SUITABLE –
GO TO LEVEL 2
LADDER
MAY NOT BE
SUITABLE
LADDER
MAY NOT BE
SUITABLE
EXAMPLES: EXTENDABLE
TOOLS, LOWERING THE
INTERVENTION OBJECT, etc.
EXAMPLES: SCAFFOLDS, MOBILE
ELEVATING WORK PLATFORMS,
etc.
SLIC WG MACHEX SUB-WG “Use of Portable Ladders”
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IS THE WORK TAKING PLACE
AT HIGH LEVEL?
IS IT LONG DURATION
WORK?
YES
LADDER
MAY NOT BE
SUITABLE
IS THE WORKING DISTANCE
GREATER THAN ONE ARM´S
LENGTH?
IS THE WEIGHT/VOLUME OF
THE LOAD HIGH?
DOES THE ACTIVITY
REQUIRE A LOT OF EFFORT?
LEVEL 2
DO I NEED FREQUENT
ACCESS?
IS IT LONG DURATION
WORK?
AM I WORKING AT A HIGH
LEVEL?
YES
NO
LADDER
MAY NOT BE
SUITABLE
(National requirements may
apply) (National requirements may
apply)
DOES THE WORK INVOLVE
USING DANGEROUS
EQUIPMENT OR TOOLS?
LADDER MAY
BE SUITABLE –
GO TO LEVEL 3
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41
LEVEL 3
USE EQUIPMENT THAT MINIMIZES THE
CONSEQUENCE OF A FALL,
IF POSSIBLE
USE INDIVIDUAL FALL
PROTECTION EQUIPMENT, IF
POSSIBLE
LOOK AT THE INFORMATIVE GUIDE (CHECK LIST) FOR
THE USE OF LADDERS
(National requirements
may apply)
EXAMPLE: SAFETY NETS,
SOFT LANDING SYSTEMS
(National requirements
may apply)
EXAMPLE: FALL ARREST
SYSTEM USING A HIGH
ANCHOR POINT
Available in: http//www…
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Annex B
Checklist for the use of portable ladders
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CHECKLIST FOR THE USE OF PORTABLE LADDERS
Examples of conditions that can be verified by labour inspectors, employers and workers, according to their national practices, regarding the use of portable ladders.
WEDIR – Work Equipment Directive (Directive 2009/104/EC) NR – National Requirements (from EU Members and Norway) NBG – Non-binding guide (Directive 2001/45/EC) EN – European Standard (EN 131-3) C – COMPLIANT NC – NOT COMPLIANT NA – NOT APPLICABLE
Check first if the ladder is the proper equipment to be used, following the step-by-step
diagram.
General Requirements C NC NA Comments/photos
WEDIR The most appropriate means of access to temporary
workplaces at height was selected according to the frequency of passage;
WEDIR The most appropriate means of access to temporary workplaces at height was selected according to the
height to be negotiated;
WEDIR The most appropriate means of access to temporary workplaces at height was selected according to the
duration of use;
NR The hazards and risk factors caused by the work
have been identified;
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NR Measures are defined in the case of any flammability, explosiveness, electrical hazards
and other likely risk factors.
NR
The selection of the work equipment for work at height has characteristics, including dimensions
that are appropriate to the nature of the work to be performed and the foreseeable loadings, which
allows for safe passage;
NR You have considered the distance and
consequences of a potential fall;
NR You have verified whether it was possible to adopt
collective protection measures and, if not, personal protection measures;
NR You have considered the need for easy and timely
evacuation and rescue in an emergency;
NR You have verified the weather conditions (ex.
windy conditions);
NR You have considered worker’s state of health;
NR The workers have training and instructions on the safe use of ladders and the risks involved in their use.
Ladders used as work stations C NC NA
WEDIR
Ladders may be used as work stations for work at a
height only under circumstances in which the use of other safer work equipment is not justified because of
the low level of risk;
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WEDIR
Ladders may be used as work stations for work at a height only under circumstances in which the use of
other safer work equipment is not justified because of the short duration of use;
WEDIR
Ladders may be used as work stations for work at a
height only under circumstances in which the use of other safer work equipment is not justified because
the existing features on site that the employer cannot alter;
NR The task does not involve holding bulky or heavy loads;
NR The work station is not placed in the immediate
vicinity of openings in floors and walls, close to sharp protruding objects, open containers with
dangerous liquids and chemicals (in which case the scale of the injuries may increase);
NR The nature of the task does not require simultaneous execution by more than one person
on the same ladder;
NR The work on a ladder does not involve dangerous
equipment or tools (such as portable chainsaws or hand compressed-air tools);
NR Work on a ladder is carried out at a safe distance
from the top of the ladder;
NR The weight of the person, using the ladder with or
without extra load, does not exceed its maximum
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load capacity;
NR You have checked whether there are any power lines
or other electrical elements that could cause a risk of
electric shock;
NR There is enough free space around the ladder;
NR It is not allowed to stand under a ladder while the work is going on;
NR Leaning ladders must not be used as work
platform;
EN131 Use non-conductive ladders for unavoidable live
electrical work.
Ladder used for Access C NC NA
WEDIR
Ladders used for access must be long enough to
extend sufficiently beyond the access platform, unless other measures have been taken to ensure a
firm handhold;
NR Access ladders must extend at least 1 meter beyond the access platform;
NR A portable ladder may only be climbed by one person at a time;
NR You have considered the height difference between
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the base and the work area and the movement frequency on the ladder;
Ladder Inspection C NC NA
NR The ladder was inspected in accordance with the
operating instructions;
NBG Checks were carried out by a competent person;
NBG Check the attachment of the rungs to the stiles
(tight, rigid assembly);
NBG Check the sound condition of welds;
NBG Check the absence of cracks and knots;
NBG Check if there is no damage to the rungs due to
attachment of the locking system;
NBG Check the condition and attachment of any pull
rope;
NBG Check the condition of anti-splay devices;
NBG Check the condition of anti-slip devices in both the
upper and lower parts of the ladder;
NBG Check if there are detached rungs;
NBG Check the condition of extension attachments on an
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extension stepladder;
NBG Check the condition of the stabilizing system of a
telescopic ladder;
NBG Check if the wooden ladder is painted;
EN131 Remove any contamination from the ladder, such
as wet paint, mud, oil or snow.
Base and immobilization of the ladder C NC NA
WEDIR The portable ladder rests on a stable footing;
WEDIR The portable ladder rests on a strong footing;
WEDIR The portable ladder rests on a suitably-sized
footing;
WEDIR The portable ladder rests on immobile footing;
WEDIR The portable ladder rungs remain horizontal;
EN131 The ladder shall be on an even, level and unmoveable base.
Prevention of slipping C NC NA
WEDIR The feet of portable ladders must be prevented
from slipping during use by securing the uprights
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at or near their upper or lower ends, by any anti-slip device or by any other arrangement of equivalent
effectiveness;
NR For portable ladders which are laid against pillars or horizontal wide pipes, etc., their upper ends must
have the appropriate shape or fittings so as to ensure the ladder’s firm support (e.g. a semicircular
shape);
NR To prevent the ladder from slipping into the base, the
right kind of anti-slip devices were chosen, e.g.:
Image from SE
NR If the ladder cannot be adequately stabilized (e.g. it is not possible to secure the uprights at or near their
upper end) then a second person standing on the ground holding the ladder is required;
NBG
If the upper part of the ladder cannot be tied into
place, consider: rubber pads, hooks or rubber facade
rollers.
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Image from NBG
Ladders Stability C NC NA
WEDIR Ladders must be so positioned as to ensure their stability during use.
NR The installation of portable ladder should follow, as far
as possible, the rule 1 (distance) x 4 (height);
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Image from NBG
NBG
If you have to place a ladder in a passageway, on the public highway, etc., taking into account risk of
collision with the ladder, take appropriate measures such as fencing, markings, signs or locking any
doorway. In some cases, a second person should stand guard and/or hold the foot of the ladder so that work
can be carried out in complete safety;
EN131
When positioning the ladder take into account risk of collision with the ladder e.g. from pedestrians,
vehicles or doors. Secure doors (not fire exits) and windows;
NR If the type of work can cause the ladder to rotate,
shift or slide and fall, additional safety measures were implemented;
NBG The ladders is positioned so that worker will not have to overreach. Never reach beyond an arm’s
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length when stretching a hand out to the side (the ladder should be moved if necessary);
NBG Never go beyond the fourth highest rung, so as to
have adequate support during work;
EN131 The ladder shall never be repositioned from
above;
Secure handhold and secure support C NC NA
WEDIR
Ladders must be used in such a way that a secure handhold and secure support are available to
workers at all times. In particular, if a load has to be carried by hand on a ladder, it must not preclude
the maintenance of a safe handhold;
NR During ascending or descending to portable ladders must always have three contact points (1 hand +
2 feet or 2 hands + 1 foot);
NR Whenever possible, workers should not hold
hand tools or other materials, while ascending
portable ladders, but carry them in handbags fitted on their bodies;
NR The weight or the dimension of the load carried will not compromise the safety of the worker;
NR The worker is facing the ladder when he uses it;
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NBG Never climb a ladder two rungs at a time;
NBG Wear suitable boots, cleaned of mud, etc.
Interlocking ladder and extension ladder C NC NA
WEDIR
Interlocking ladders and extension ladders must be
used in such a way that the different sections are prevented from moving relative to one another.
NR The extension ladder is equipped with a pawl, i.e. a locking mechanism preventing the upper
section of the ladder from sliding backwards;
NR The portable ladder does not extend beyond the
level specified by the manufacturer;
NR Single ladders are not tied, glued or connected
together using screw or nails except when it is specified in user’s manual;
NR The steps, limiters, joints and locking hooks
remain strong and durable in the working conditions;
NBG When an extension stepladder is extended, do not climb on the top four rungs;
NBG Do not move from extension stepladder to other
workstations or walkways.
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Mobile ladder C NC NA
WEDIR Mobile ladders must be prevented from moving
before they are stepped on;
NR The mobile ladder will not move if worker is on
it;
Suspended ladders
C NC NA
WEDIR
Suspended ladders must be attached in a secure
manner and, with the exception of rope ladders, in such a way that they cannot be displaced and
swinging is prevented;
NR Suspended ladders are protected against being unhooked inadvertently.
Stepladder C NC NA
NBG The stepladder is fitted with robust locking device;
NBG Before each use, check that the stepladder is in sound
condition (damaged stepladders should not be used).
NBG Position the stepladder correctly with the locking
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devices, and secure it so that it cannot slide or tilt.
NBG In order to use this type of ladder on stairs or a
sloping surface, use sliding extensions and fix them to at least two points on each side.
NBG Erect the stepladder properly and do not climb onto the last step unless there is a safety bridge [rail]
or a securing device.
NBG In places where there is traffic, protect by means of barriers.
NBG Always indicate the presence of workers in an appropriate manner.
NBG Stepladders must not be used as single ladders;
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Annex B1
Examples of national requirements from EU Member´s and Norway, which may be included in the checklist
NR (PT)
Ladders must be rigid and constructed of solid materials and free of defects and in good condition;
NR (ES)
Work done more than 3, 5 meters high, from the point of operation to the ground, that require movements or stresses dangerous to the stability of the worker, must be
carried with an individual fall protection equipment;
NR (PL)
In case of works performed from the ladder at the height exceeding 2 m above the ground or floor, it should be ensured that workers apply measures against falls from
height, appropriate to the type of performed work, such as safety harness with a lanyard attached to the solid parts of the structure;
NR (CZ)
When working on a ladder, the worker shall be secured using personal protective devices against a fall if the worker´s feet are at a height greater than 5 m;
NR
(BG)
Is not allowed to work from a ladder, at a height of more than 3 m from the footing of
the ladder, where the work is performed by a person not fastened with a safety harness to a robust and secure structure;
NR It is not permitted to work on a ladder higher than 5 meters from the ground;
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(EE)
NR
(NO)
Portable ladders higher than 6m shall not be used. Portable interlocking ladders
higher than 4m shall not be used.
NR
(AT)
The length of single stepped ladders may not exceed 4 m. If the standing height
exceeds 5 m and no PPE against fall is used, constructive measures to stabilize the ladder must be taken;
NR (LV)
If the ladders height is more than 5 meters, the work from the ladders may be carried out only using collective safeguards or collective and personal protective
equipment together;
NR (BG)
Is not allowed to use portable ladders to perform tasks on walls and ceilings at a height of more than 3.5 m and to lift loads (bricks, stones, etc.);
NR
(EE)
Working standing on ladder is not permitted more than 30 minutes at the time and
not more than 1/3 of the length of the working day;
NR (CZ)
Only loads of a weight less than 15 kg may be taken up (down) on a ladder;
ECR
(PL)
Performance of masonry and plastering works from leaning ladders is prohibited;
ECR (PL)
In the course of setting structures, performance of welding works, detachment of pre-fabricated elements from slings and concreting of contacts, only mounting
platforms or stepladders shall be used;
ECR (BG)
Is not allowed to use portable ladders on unstable, moving structures or ones not ensuring stability (freshly painted or frozen walls, gutters, round columns, masts, pillars,
corners of buildings, pipes, etc.) as an upper point of support to a single ladder;
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ECR (EE)
It is forbidden to stand higher than on third rung or step from the top;
ECR
(BG)
Is not allowed to move a two-armed ladder with unfolded arms, or with the effort
of the worker on it;
ECR
(BG)
Is not allowed tossing of handheld power tools, products and the like, to a person
standing on a ladder;
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Annex C
Examples of good practices regarding use of portable
ladders, not included in the WEDIR
After receiving the national practices from 24 Member States and Norway, the group decided to
highlight examples of good practices regarding use of portable ladders not included in the WEDIR.
These requirements may be taken into account in a potential future review of the WEDIR, and
eventual revision of the Member States legislation:
1. The ladder should not be placed in the immediate vicinity of openings in floors and walls,
close to sharp protruding objects, open containers with dangerous liquids and chemicals.
2. The work on a ladder should not involve dangerous equipment or tools.
3. Work on a ladder must be carried out at a safe distance from the top of the ladder.
4. In places with electrical hazards, equipment appropriate to that risk must be used, including non-conductive ladders.
5. The ladder should be inspected in accordance with their operating instructions by a competent person.
6. Portable ladders which are laid against semicircular shape elements, their upper ends must
have the appropriate shape or fittings so as to ensure the ladder’s firm support.
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7. The installation of portable ladder should follow, as far as possible, the rule 1 (distance) x 4 (height).
8. The positioning of a ladder in places near a walkway, door, window or vehicles in circulation shall have appropriate measures, such as fences, markings, signs or blocking of windows or
doors. Avoid using ladders near emergency exit.
9. The ladders should be positioned so that worker will not have to overreach.
10. If the weight or the dimension of the load carried compromise the safety of the worker, the ladder should not be used.
11. Do not climb onto the last step of a stepladder unless there is a safety rail or a securing device.