Course Information
Portable Ladder Safety for Australian Workplaces
Falls from portable ladders can cause serious injuries. Often, incidents occur because someone chooses the wrong ladder or sets it up incorrectly.
Portable Ladder Safety Training gives workers practical guidance on choosing, inspecting, positioning and using portable ladders. The course focuses on common workplace tasks involving stepladders and extension ladders.
First, learners consider whether a ladder provides the safest option for the task. A platform ladder, scaffold or elevating work platform may provide better protection in some situations.
Next, learners examine how to select a suitable ladder. They must consider the task, working height, environment, load rating and manufacturer’s instructions.
Before anyone uses a ladder, they should inspect its stiles, rungs, feet, locks and other components. If they find damage or defects, they must stop using the ladder and report the problem.
Then, the course explains how to position a ladder on firm, level and stable ground. Workers must also secure the ladder where necessary and keep the surrounding area clear.
For example, doors, vehicles and pedestrians can create additional risks. Therefore, workers may need barriers, signs or another person to protect the work area.
Also, learners examine safe climbing and working practices. Workers should face the ladder and maintain three points of contact. They should also avoid overreaching or carrying tools in their hands while climbing.
However a ladder does not suit every task
However, a ladder does not suit every task. Workers should not use one for heavy work or tasks that require two hands. Instead, they should select equipment that provides a secure working platform.
In addition, learners consider hazards involving electricity, wet surfaces, wind and nearby traffic. These hazards may make ladder use unsafe.
Finally, the course explains worker responsibilities. Workers must follow instructions, inspect equipment and report unsafe ladders or work practices.
This course supports duties under applicable Australian WHS and OHS laws. However, it does not replace task-specific instruction, practical supervision or specialised work-at-height training.
The course takes approximately 20 minutes to complete.
What You’ll Learn
- Common types of portable ladders
- How to choose the right ladder
- How to complete a pre-use inspection
- How to identify damage and defects
- Safe ladder positioning and stability
- Safe climbing and working practices
- How to maintain three points of contact
- When a ladder does not suit the task
- When to choose safer access equipment
- Worker responsibilities for reporting unsafe equipment
Simple equipment. Serious risk. Clear controls.
This course gives workers the knowledge to use ladders safely, recognise when risks are unacceptable, and prevent falls before they happen.
