Key points
- Ladders suit simple, short tasks and temporary access, so first ask whether a platform or other access equipment is the safer choice.
- Workplace ladders should meet AS/NZS 1892.1, be industrial grade and have a load rating of at least 120 kg.
- Keep 3 points of contact, set up on firm level ground, and never stand on or above the second step from the top of a step ladder.
- Use a non-conductive ladder, such as fibreglass, near electrical hazards.
This guide covers ladder selection, setup and use for Australian workplaces. It is written for supervisors, facility managers, warehouse managers and tradespeople who choose ladders and set site rules.
Falls from height are managed through the hierarchy of controls. Ladders are not the first choice for long or heavy work. Where a ladder is the right tool, it must be industrial grade, suited to the task and used correctly.
When is a ladder the right choice?
Ladders are for simple and short duration tasks, temporary access or egress. The business assesses the task before deciding on equipment. For longer work, heavy tools or when two hands are needed, look at platform ladders, work platforms or other access equipment. A ladder should only be used when the risk assessment shows it is the appropriate control.
The hierarchy of controls ranks elimination, substitution, isolation and engineering controls above PPE and administrative controls. If a safer way of working at height exists, use it. Document the assessment and the reason a ladder was chosen.
What standard should workplace ladders meet?
Workplace ladders should meet AS/NZS 1892.1 Portable ladders, performance and geometric requirements. Look for products marked as tested to this standard. Industrial grade and robust construction are required. The minimum load rating is 120 kg. Domestic ladders are not for workplace use. Check the listing for the standard and the load rating.
| Check | What to look for |
|---|---|
| Standard | AS/NZS 1892.1 stated on the listing or label |
| Grade | Industrial grade, robust construction |
| Load rating | At least 120 kg, more if the worker plus tools weigh more |
| Material | Fibreglass where there are electrical hazards |
| Type | Matched to the task, height and surface |
Which type of ladder suits the job?
Step ladders, platform ladders and order pickers, extension and single ladders, fibreglass ladders, multi-purpose ladders and work platforms each suit different tasks. Match the type to the height, the task and the surface. For example, a Staruiju 11 Step Fibreglass Ladder is an example of a fibreglass step ladder in the range.
Our catalogue includes step ladders, platform ladders and order pickers, fibreglass and electrical ladders, extension and single ladders, industrial and trade ladders, work platforms and access equipment, and ladder accessories. Brands include Bailey, Indalex, Star Aluminium, Staruiju, Team Systems and GRIPPS.
How do you set up an extension ladder?
Place an extension ladder at a 4 to 1 height to width ratio. Secure the top and bottom. Ensure firm level footing. Extend the ladder 3 rungs above the step-off point or 1 metre when used for access. Keep the area clear of doorways and traffic or barricade the zone. An Indalex 3.9m 150kg Rating Fibreglass Extension Ladder is an example of an industrial extension ladder.
Check the feet, rungs and locks before each use. Do not place the ladder on boxes, pallets or unstable bases. If the ground is uneven, choose a different access method. Tie off the ladder at the top whenever possible.
How do you use a step ladder safely?
Open the step ladder fully and lock the spreaders or braces before use. Never stand or work on or above the second step from the top. Never straddle the ladder. Face the ladder when climbing and working. Keep your body between the stiles. Move the ladder rather than overreach.
Ensure the feet are on a firm, level surface. Do not use a step ladder as a single ladder leaning against a wall. Do not place tools or materials on the steps where they can cause a slip. Follow the manufacturer instructions for the specific model.
Why does 3 points of contact matter?
Always keep 3 points of contact while climbing and working. For example, 2 feet and one hand, or one foot and 2 hands. Carry tools in a belt or haul them up. Do not carry loads that stop you holding on. This rule applies to every ladder type.
Losing contact is a common cause of falls. Plan the task so both hands are free for climbing. Use tool belts, pouches or a rope and bucket to raise equipment. If the task requires two hands at height, a platform ladder or work platform is the better choice.
When do you need a fibreglass ladder?
Near electrical hazards always use a non-conductive ladder such as fibreglass. Metal ladders are not for electrical work. Keep the ladder clean and dry. A Bailey 5 Step 170kg Load Fibreglass Job Station is an example of a fibreglass platform step for electrical work.
Fibreglass ladders are also used for general industrial work. Check the load rating and the standard on the listing. Store fibreglass ladders as the manufacturer says.
When is a platform ladder or work platform better?
A platform ladder or work platform gives a standing platform with a guard rail. This suits longer tasks, work that needs both hands, order picking in warehouses and low reach jobs where safety steps help. A Star Aluminium 6 Step Aluminium Platform is an example for warehouse logistics.
Platform ladders reduce fatigue and the temptation to overreach. Work platforms with wheels and brakes suit frequent moves in a warehouse. Choose the platform height so the work is at a comfortable level without standing on the top rail or the top step.
How do you inspect a ladder before use?
Check stiles, rungs or steps, feet, spreaders, locks and labels. Look for cracks, bends, loose parts and missing feet. Remove a damaged ladder from use and tag it out. Follow the manufacturer instructions and the standard the product is listed against.
Inspect before each use and on the site routine schedule. Keep a register of inspections. Do not attempt field repairs such as welding or bending stiles back. Replace the ladder if any structural part is damaged. Labels must remain legible.
How do you set ladder rules for a site?
Define approved ladders by task. Require training for anyone who uses a ladder. Set an inspection routine and keep a register. Store ladders away from weather and traffic. Control who may use which ladder.
Write the rules into the site safety plan. Include the 4 to 1 angle, the 3 points of contact rule, the ban on standing above the second step from the top, and the requirement for fibreglass near electrical hazards. Review the rules when tasks or the site layout change.
How do you buy ladders for a workplace?
Check height, type, load rating and the standard on the listing. Consider ladder accessories such as brackets, wheel kits and tool trays. Use the trade buying page for pathways to quick order by SKU, request a product quote, sign in to a customer account to see orders and account details, and a trade account application enquiry. The quick order by SKU page lets you enter SKUs and quantities, paste a list of SKU and quantity pairs or import a CSV, then add the exact matches to the cart in one step. The request a quote form takes product names or SKUs and quantities, a required-by date, delivery or pickup preference and postcode. Availability is confirmed with the quote. Large ladders may ship by freight.
Frequently asked questions
What load rating should a workplace ladder have?
A workplace ladder should be industrial grade with a load rating of at least 120 kg. Check the listing for the rating and choose a higher rating if the worker plus tools weigh more.
Can I stand on the top step of a step ladder?
No. Never stand or work on or above the second step from the top of a step ladder. The top step and the top cap are not for standing.
What angle should an extension ladder be at?
Place an extension ladder at a 4 to 1 height to width ratio. For every 4 metres of height, the base should be 1 metre from the wall.
Are aluminium ladders safe for electrical work?
No. Aluminium conducts electricity. Use a non-conductive ladder such as fibreglass near electrical hazards. Keep the ladder clean and dry.
How often should ladders be inspected?
Inspect ladders before each use, plus the site routine and the manufacturer instructions. Keep a register of inspections and remove damaged ladders from service.
For help choosing ladders and platforms, call 1300 078 277 or visit our contact page.
Shop ladders and platforms
- Step laddersIndustrial step ladders for trade and warehouse use
- Platform ladders and order pickersPlatform ladders with guard rails and order pickers for warehouses
- Fibreglass and electrical laddersNon-conductive fibreglass ladders for electrical work
- Extension and single laddersIndustrial extension and single ladders for height access
- Work platforms and access equipmentMobile work platforms and access equipment for longer tasks
- Ladder accessories and safetyBrackets, wheel kits, tool trays and safety gates
Related guides
- Our article 'Workplace Safety Checklist for Australian Businesses'Eight areas to check on a worksite
- Our article 'PPE in Australia: A Complete Guide for Workplaces'Types of PPE and how to choose them
- Our safety boots guideAS/NZS 2210.3 and SB to S3 classes
Sources
- WorkSafe Victoria, Using portable ladders in the workplace.
