Say this
- The law says every ladder must be sound, free from obvious defects and right for the job (WSH (Work at Heights) Regs, reg 18).
- Look at the stiles. Do not use a ladder with stiles that are bent, twisted, cracked, crushed or corroded (WSH Council, WAH CoP).
- Look at every rung or step. Missing, loose or worn rungs mean the ladder is out of use.
- Check the feet are there and not worn. Check tie rods, ropes and spreaders are fitted and not broken.
- Do the push test. Push the stiles apart and together at each end. Any movement means loose rungs or tie rods (WSH Council, WAH CoP).
- Stand it on firm, level, stable ground. A leaning ladder must be tied, lashed or held at the foot. It must rise at least 1 metre above the landing (WAH Regs, reg 18).
- Found a defect? Tag the ladder 'Do not use' and take it away so nobody else grabs it.
Ask the crew
- Name three defects that put a ladder out of use.
- How do you do the push test?
- What are the three ways to stop a leaning ladder slipping?
Show them
- Do a full pre-use check on a ladder from the site.
- Show the push test on a good ladder and, if you have one, a damaged one.
- Show how both stiles are tied at the top.
Sign-off
| Name | Company | Signature |
|---|---|---|
Sources
- Workplace Safety and Health (Work at Heights) Regulations 2013, Singapore Statutes Online (AGC).
- Code of Practice for Working Safely at Heights, WSH Council.
This is practical guidance, not legal advice. Laws and codes of practice change; always check the current official text and your site's own procedures.
