Using traditional double-sided ladders on the job site can potentially leave workers facing an increased risk of falls. How?
- Over-reaching and twisting sideways from the top of the ladder.
- Working at an awkward, tiring angle from ladder rungs.
- Losing balance when climbing up and down with armfuls of tools.
- Taking both hands off the ladder to work, then getting disorientated.
- Straying from a safe position within the ladder siderails.
- Sliding on wet, slippery metal alloy rungs.
It’s easy to see why many Australian Tier One construction companies now mandate the use of platform ladders site-wide.
Why platform ladders?
According to SafeWork Australia’s Key Work Health and Safety statistics released in 2024, falls from height accounted for 15% of workplace fatalities in 2023, an increase on the five-year average from 2019 to 2023. Falls from height was the second highest contributor to workplace fatalities overall in 2023.
Platform ladders allow workers to perform tasks on a stable platform, in comfort, with less fatigue. This helps prevent falls, boosting efficiency at the same time. Once workers are up, they can carry out jobs using both hands:
- Standing with both feet flat, no twisting or reaching on the balls of the feet.
- Working safely at 360 degrees, facing forward and rotating as needed.
- Locking the ladder firmly in place and securing the platform.
- Maintaining three points of contact for longer, with handrail support.
Who has platform ladders in the bag?
Bailey Ladders offers a range of specialist platform ladders. The safety features include:
- Optional safety gate, for 360-degree safety. When close to the back of the ladder, workers are reminded to stop moving and reorientate themselves.
- Purpose-built handrail, to hold tools and equipment. Workers have their hands free to grip when climbing up and down the ladder.
- Additional spring-loaded castor wheels, on specific models. Move the ladder as needed. When workers stand on the ladder, the wheels lock for safety.
- Specific platform height, for the job in hand. Adjustable height and dual platform models are available. Work at the right height for the job, to help reduce the risk of falls.
- Anti-slip surface, for greater traction. This provides greater grip than metal alone.
- Platform ledge or toe kick, for a protective edge. Available on larger models.
Industrial safety at height
Bailey’s platform ladders allow for critical 360-degree working in applications as diverse as:
- Mine maintenance: Repairing trucks and heavy equipment.
- Heavy vehicle mechanics: Working on bus/truck windows and frames.
- Warehouse, stocktaking: Castor wheel versions for safer mobility.
- Retail store shelving: Easier to reach/repack stock on high shelves.
- Residential and commercial construction: Mandated on many Tier One sites with high safety standards.
- Painting: Use on side or roofline of house instead of scaffold.
- Electrical: Safer wiring in ceilings, roofs and high places.
Tips for ladder safety
While platform ladders have awesome safety features, nothing is foolproof. Workers should always:
- Set up in flat, stable work positions.
- Fully engage the platform to lock into place.
- Climb using three points of contact.
- Minimise reaching beyond the centre of the ladder.
Stephen Laughlan, Werner Co Australia Marketing Manager, says: “When used correctly, platform ladders can greatly improve your safety and worksite efficiency. Yet all ladders have fall risks. Learn how to use them correctly for maximum protection.”
As Australia’s largest provider of industrial and safety equipment, Blackwoods has all your job requirements covered. Talk to your local Blackwoods account manager about the benefits of Bailey platform ladders.
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