Document ID: chunk:federal_register_of_legislation:F2016L00425:body:0:p25
Version: federal_register_of_legislation:F2016L00425
Segment Type: other
Provision Reference: 
Character Range: 62766–65405

easy to misuse—there should be no back hooking, they should
not be wrapped around the body or passed between the legs, the chest connection should never be higher than the highest attachment point, they are not suitable for frequent use (because of possible misuse or muscle injury) and the ladder or structure points must be capable of arresting forces generated by a fall with the double lanyard. Adequate training should be provided on
their use.
Figure 26: Left: An example of a double lanyard. These must have double action connectors.
Right: Person climbing with a double lanyard. Note that in this application the connectors will slide
down to the lowest point on the rail and likely be subject to side loading. Side loading can be controlled
by using soft connections such as slings or the use of hooks rated to withstand side loading.

7. LADDERS

Ladders are primarily a means of access and egress. Many falls take place when people are working from ladders. In addition, when using a ladder:

    * the working width and movement is limited
    * the time involved in moving and setting up ladders is often underestimated when planning work
    * the working position on ladders is often uncomfortable (the need to stretch sideways,
      work above shoulder height and stand on narrow rungs for a long time) and may cause musculoskeletal disorders.
For these reasons, you should consider whether an elevating work platform or scaffolding would
be safer and more efficient.

7.1 Portable ladders
Extension or single ladders should generally only be used as a means of access to or egress from a work area. They should only be used as a working platform for light work of short duration that can be carried out safely on the ladder.

Selecting ladders
If ladders are used they must be selected to suit the task to be undertaken. In doing this, you should consider the duration of the task, the physical surroundings of where the task is to be undertaken and the prevailing weather conditions.

Ladders should have a load rating of at least 120 kg and be manufactured for industrial use.

Positioning ladders
Any ladder used at a workplace must be set up on a solid and stable surface, and set up so as to prevent the ladder from slipping. Single and extension ladders can be prevented from slipping by:
    * placing ladders at a slope of 4:1, and setting up stepladders in the fully opened position
    * securing ladders at the top or bottom, or if necessary, at both ends (see Figure 27).

Figure 27: Some effective ways of securing a ladder

Access or egress
Where fixed or extension ladders are used for access or egress,