Subsection 4: Characteristics and specific conditions of use of different categories of work equipment

The employer shall ensure that ladders, stepladders and steps are made of materials appropriate to the constraints of the environment in which they are to be used. These materials and their assembly are of a strength and resistance appropriate to the use of the equipment and enable it to be used under ergonomically suitable conditions.

Ladders, stepladders and steps must be positioned in such a way that they are stable during access and use and that their rungs or steps are horizontal.

The employer shall ensure that fixed ladders are designed, equipped or installed in such a way as to prevent falls from a height. After assessing the risk in relation to the climbing height for which these ladders are designed, suitably equipped rest landings are provided to ensure progress under ergonomically appropriate conditions.

Portable ladders are supported and rest on stable, strong supports of adequate size, in particular so that they remain immobile. To prevent them from slipping or tipping over during use, portable ladders are either fixed to the top or bottom of their uprights or held in place by any anti-slip device or any other solution of equivalent effectiveness.

Suspended ladders must be securely fastened, with the exception of rope ladders, in such a way as to prevent them from shifting or swinging.

Ladders made up of several assembled elements and extension ladders are used in such a way as to ensure that the various elements are fixed in relation to each other. The overlap length of the sections of an extension ladder must always be sufficient to ensure the rigidity of the assembly.

Access ladders should be of such a length that they extend at least one metre above the access level, unless other measures have been taken to ensure a safe hold.

Ladders are used in such a way as to provide workers with a secure grip and support at all times. The carrying of loads should be exceptional and limited to light, unobtrusive loads. It must not prevent a secure grip from being maintained.