Housing industry insights
Advocacy & policy
News & inspiration
Support & guidance
Member perks
Industry insurance
For your business
Apprentices
Building it right
Building materials & products
Managing your business
Managing your safety
Building your business
Other subjects
A rewarding career
Study with us
A job in the industry
Grow with us
Our podcasts
Our initiatives
Get involved
Awards
Awards winners
Industry events
Most popular products
Top categories
For your business
Address
{{propApi.title}}
{{propApi.text}} {{region}} Change location{{propApi.title}}
{{propApi.successMessage}} {{region}} Change location Address
{{propApi.title}}
{{propApi.text}} {{region}} Change location{{propApi.title}}
{{propApi.successMessage}} {{region}} Change locationMember and guest login
Enter your email and password to access secured content, members only resources and discount prices.
Did you become a member online? If not, you will need to activate your account to login.
If you are having problems logging in, please call HIA helpdesk on 1300 650 620 during business hours.
Forgotten password
Need some help?
If you are having problems logging in, please call HIA helpdesk on 1300 650 620 during business hours.
If the email address you have entered is registered, you will receive an email with further instructions.
Become part of the HIA community
Enables quick and easy registration for future events or learning and grants access to expert advice and valuable resources.
Create a guest account
Enter your details below and create a login
Send me exclusive tips, early access to new launches, and special offers. I can change my mind at any time.
By clicking Get started now you agree to the terms and conditions and privacy policy.
Safe use of portable ladders
Each year there are dozens of serious incidents where workers have fallen from ladders. Most of these incidents involve a ladder being used incorrectly or inappropriately.
Monday, 21st March 2022
What you need to know
Only use ladders for simple access jobs, or for a short duration. It’s best to work from ground level whenever possible. You should also consider alternatives to a ladder, such as scaffolding or an elevated work platform.
Tips on using a ladder safely
If a ladder is your only option, the following precautions can help you avoid injury.
- Choose the right ladder for the job. It should meet Australian standards and the load requirements of the job
- An A-frame or extension ladder may be appropriate for some tasks, but a platform ladder is safer
- Inspect the ladder for damage before each use
- Only use a ladder if you are physically-capable of doing so
- Always set up the ladder on a flat, stable surface. If this isn’t possible then use a ladder that includes ladder safety devices like leg levellers, anti-slip gutter guards and stabilisers
- Always maintain three-point of contact when climbing or descending the ladder. This means two hands and one foot, or two feet and one hand
- Do not carry materials or tools by hand while climbing the ladder. Tools should be carried in a tool belt or side pouch
- Never lean or reach away from the ladder while using it
- The combined weight of the person using the ladder and any items or tools should never exceed the working load limit on the ladder
- A-frame ladders should only be used when locked in the fully-open position
- If you’re using an extension ladder, secure it at the top, bottom or both. If this isn’t possible then have someone hold the ladder in place while in use
- Extension ladders should be angled at a ratio of 1:4. That is, position the base of the ladder 1 metre away from the structure for every 4 metres of height
- Do not climb or work past the second-last rung of a ladder, and never straddle the top of an A-frame ladder
- When climbing down, remain facing the ladder and climb to the bottom rung before stepping off.
Share with your network:
More articles on:
Find the latest expert advice, guides and much more!
Was this page helpful?
Thank you for submitting your feedback.
The above is intended to provide general information in summary form. The content does not constitute specific advice and should not be relied upon as such. Formal advice should be sought by members and customers with respect to particular matters before taking action.
Managing your safety topics
Can’t find what you need, check out other resources that might be closer to the mark.
Contracts Online
The industry’s go-to digital platform.
No matter the size of the job, a watertight building contract is critical to protect your business, and the current climate presents a great opportunity to go digital with your contracts.
You might also like
NSW Site Sign - People Working Above
Warn people below your worksite about the risk of falling objects with this 600x450mm sign. It’s ideal for situations when people are working at heights, such as on roofs and scaffolding. NSW signs are made from weather resistant...
Non-member price $ 70
Member/Subscriber price $34.5
NSW Site Sign - First Aid Kit
In the event of an emergency or injury make sure you have this 450x300mm emergency sign to show where the first aid kit is located. NSW signs are made from weather resistant, 5mm thick corflute.
Non-member price $ 50
Member/Subscriber price $25