A third of all reported fall-from-heights incidents involve ladders and stepladders. Many of these injuries are caused by inappropriate use of the equipment.

It is essential to maintain three points of contact (hands and feet) at the working position. On a ladder where it is impossible to maintain a handhold, other than for a brief period or time, other measures are needed to prevent a fall.  The message highlights the risk of overreaching when on a ladder. It is recommended safe practice to keep the belt buckle (navel) inside the stiles and both feet on the same rung throughout the task.

Further information:

HSE guidance on the safe use of leaning
ladders:
www.hse.gov.uk/falls/leaningladders.htm

Safe use of ladders and stepladders: An
employers’ guide, HSE INDG402

This message should be stuck onto the inside face of the stiles (the side pieces that the rungs are attached to).

Messages should be printed on laminated synthetic labels with an extra strong permanent adhesive to ensure long term adhesion.