Practical alternatives to using stepladders: a guide for electricians and other engineering contractors is a new guidance document produced by the ECA as part of is ongoing ZAP initiative.

The guide is designed to help contractors establish whether stepladders can still be considered a reasonably practical option as a work platform, for maintenance or other tasks, or as a means of accessing or leaving work at a different level.

The document comes in anticipation of the forthcoming Work at Height Regulations and examines planning and risk assessment; choosing temporary access equipment; competency, training and changing behaviour; and using stepladders.

Contractors are advised to consider safer alternatives and to ensure that they have a clear reason for selecting stepladders, especially if there is an accident as they may be asked to justify their use.

The guide has been produced with the support of the HSE and is exclusively available on the ECA’s web site in the health and safety section.

Source

Electrical and Mechanical Contractor