them, such as reaching products on high shelves, cleaning windows for long periods of time, and getting to hard to reach spots. But with this comes safety concerns.
In an industrial capacity, effective safety management requires an individual risk assessment to take into account various factors before carrying out a task involving ladders. These factors include questions regarding the purpose of use and duration of the activity.
For example, it makes a difference whether the task involves quickly replacing a light bulb compared to standing at height for hours while cleaning high and hard to reach surfaces. If the task requires great dexterity or strength, it may make sense to use a scaffold or a platform instead of a conventional ladder.
It is important to be aware of the latest standard from the European Committee for Standardisation. The new EN 131-1 and 2 standards, introduced in January 2018, have been created with the intention of reducing ladder-related incidents. Under EN 131-1 and 2, all leaning ladders that are three metres or longer must be equipped with a stabiliser bar at the base to ensure stability.
Ease of setting-up and dismantling should also be considered, alongside looking for a low weight and transportable solution.
2
THREE STEPS TO LADDER SUCCESS
Simone Harrer, Product Manager at ZARGES, identifies the three steps to consider when picking the perfect ladder.
According to the Health and Safety Executive, approximately 609,000 cases of reportable work-related accidents occur in the UK each year. Tragically, the most common cause of fatal injuries is falls from height.
Though rare, these incidents often involve ladders. As the cleaning industry often requires ladders and step ladders to reach difficult places, it is important to have the correct equipment to ensure safety.
With such a huge range of ladders available on the market, knowing what to choose can be confusing. To help those facing this dilemma, ZARGES has put together three points to consider:
1
Assess the purpose and duration of use As part of the cleaning process, there is a wide range of tasks which require working at height to complete
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Test the durability A quality ladder is characterised most importantly by
its durability. This concerns both the design and material. Ladders used in cleaning need to be built to withstand products containing harsh and corrosive chemicals, and be durable so that they can be transported from one job to the next. If a ladder is made of the correct material, any spillages won’t affect its functionality. Ladders should be made of a durable yet lightweight metal that is rust resistant, such as aluminium.
3
Pay attention to stability and slip resistance When working on cleaning jobs, there are many factors
which can compromise the slip resistance of a ladder. Substances such as machine oil, water or other material can quickly lead to dangerous and slippery conditions. This is especially true when working on a recently cleaned floor, as a lot of cleaning products leave a soapy residue which can lead to a slippery surface.
An example of this kind of product is ZARGES’ R13 stepladder, which has been designed with top of the range anti-slip material whilst being made of light and sturdy aluminium. The anti-slip design on the stepladder’s treads and platforms benefits cleaners working in slippery or wet conditions.
It is vital to first identify the challenges that face cleaners in their line of work, then identify the most suitable ladder to tackle those challenges. Long ladders should conform to the new EN 131-1 and 2 standard, which has set a benchmark for employers to maintain and measure themselves against. In addition to this, specific needs must be addressed when purchasing the right ladder.
www.zarges.com/uk WORKING AT HEIGHT | 37
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