Safety briefing - trestles and stepladders

This briefing addresses the key risks associated with the use of folding and adjustable trestles and stepladders and the control measures necessary to manage them.

What’s covered?

The aim of this Safety Briefing - Trestles and Stepladders is to remind well-trained workers of the hazards of using trestles and stepladders and the precautions they are expected to apply.

Reasons for concern

There is a range of hazards arising from the use of trestles and stepladders, including falls from height and falling materials.

Control measures

The briefing describes a range of precautions which workers must apply including setting up equipment on firm and level ground and not using damaged equipment.

Key points

Attendees must take note of the following key points:

• “Stepladders should only be used when a safer alternative is not available.
• Staff should not work higher than two thirds up a stepladder.
• Trestles and stepladders should be set up on firm and even ground.
• If it’s possible to fall 2 metres or more from a trestle, guard-rails and toe boards must be fitted.”