The humble ladder is plagued by myriad myths and misconceptions that just won’t go away.
Let’s dispel some lies!
Myth #1: You need to be formally qualified to use a ladder at work.
To use a ladder at work you need to be competent, but there’s no formal qualification required. The important thing is that you know how to use the ladder safely for the task at hand.
See Ladder Safety in the Workplace for more info.
Myth #2: There’s no such thing as ladder training.
While no formal qualification is necessary, there is such a thing as ladder training. This usually takes place on the job until you’ve built up the skills and experience to use a ladder safely.
Myth #3: Ladders don’t need to be checked.
Ladders are not indestructible. Over time, with repeated use, even the sturdiest ladder will break down, but good care will maximise your ladder’s lifespan. Check out our ladder inspection checklist for details on checking your ladder to make sure it’s safe to use.
Myth #4: Climbing beyond the ladder’s maximum height limitation is safe.
Ladders are designed and tested to strict specifications. Climbing beyond the height limit or overreaching can rapidly result in loss of balance and a fall with no chance to self-correct before disaster strikes.
Myth #5: Ladders don’t have weight limits.
Even a ladder with a high weight capacity has a limit, and it will buckle or fail if that weight limit is exceeded. Always check the load limits of a ladder before use, remembering to account for your own body weight as well as the weight of any tools you’ll be using.
Myth #6: Ladders are banned on building sites.
When other work equipment is deemed unsuitable for the task, it’s perfectly acceptable to use ladders on building sites, provided the workplace is suitable for ladder use. The important thing is to cap time spent on the ladder at 30 minutes maximum and to follow the usual safety precautions.
Myth #7: The use of ladders to access scaffolds is strictly prohibited.
Ladders of the right type, securely tied to prevent movement, are acceptable for accessing scaffolds. Make sure the ladder is in good condition and extends at least one metre beyond the landing height for stable and secure use.
However, you should never use a ladder ON a scaffold platform.
Myth #8: You must have both feet and one hand on a stepladder at all times.
This myth comes from a misunderstanding of the three points of contact rule. While having both feet and one hand on the ladder at all times is ideal, as long as there are still three points of contact between you and the ladder, it’s safe to have both hands off the ladder for brief tasks. Those three points can be two feet and your chest, or two feet and your knees.
Myth #9: Wooden ladders are banned in the UK.
As long as they’re in good working order, wooden ladders are perfectly legal to own and use in the UK.
See also: Are Wooden Ladders Safe?
Myth #10: All ladders are the same.
Different ladders are made from different materials and have different shapes, heights and load capacity precisely because they’re optimised for different types of work. They can even have different-shaped rungs!
At Ladders UK Direct, we sell a wide range of ladders for all your needs, whether it’s a stepladder for the home or warehouse steps for work—or anything in between.
With FREE delivery on all orders and a price match guarantee, you can buy from us with confidence.
Shop Now
