Download the HLS Ladders Safety Toolkit

Working at height is one of the most common causes of workplace accidents, and many of these incidents involve ladders and stepladders. To help you and your team stay safe, HLS has developed the Ladders Safety Toolkit – a free, practical 7-page guide designed by our safety experts.

This toolkit provides clear, actionable checklists that make ladder inspections and safe use procedures simple to follow. Whether you’re responsible for workplace safety or you simply use ladders and steps as part of your daily job, this guide will help you remain compliant, reduce risks, and protect your workforce.

What’s Inside the HLS Ladders Safety Toolkit?

The HLS Ladders Safety Toolkit includes three essential checklists that cover every stage of safe ladder use:

• Ladders pre-use inspection checklist

• Using leaning ladders safely checklist

• Using stepladders safely checklist

• Ladder inspection checklist

By using these tools, you’ll be able to identify hazards before they cause harm, take preventive measures during use, and maintain compliance with workplace health and safety regulations.

Ladders Pre-Use Inspection Checklist

Before using any ladder or stepladder, it is a legal and safety requirement to ensure that the equipment is in good condition. The pre-use inspection checklist guides you through a systematic visual inspection carried out by a competent person.

The checklist covers key ladder components including:

• Stiles – check for bends, splits, or cracks.

• Feet – ensure they are not worn, damaged, or missing.

• Rungs – confirm they are straight, intact, and not missing.

• Locking bars or tie rods – ensure they engage correctly.

• Step platforms and treads – check for signs of wear or weakness.

• Ancillary equipment – make sure accessories are secure and in good condition.

Each inspection includes a simple yes/no check system with space for comments, plus fields to record the name of the competent person, inspection date, and any defects found. If damage is detected, the ladder must be immediately withdrawn from use and reported.

Using Leaning Ladders Safely

Even when a ladder passes inspection, there are crucial steps to follow to ensure safe use. The Leaning Ladders Checklist includes practical tips such as:

• Carrying materials safely – always use a tool belt to keep hands free.

• Checking load capacity – consider both the worker’s weight and any equipment being carried.

• Correct setup – ladders must be placed on level, stable ground, away from hazards like mud, oil, or wet leaves.

• Safe resting points – ensure the ladder rests against a strong surface such as a wall, never fragile materials like guttering or glass.

• Correct angle – use the 1-in-4 rule: for every 4 units up, the ladder base should be 1 unit out.

When working on the ladder:

• Always ascend and descend one rung at a time.

• Maintain three points of contact (two feet and one hand).

• Avoid overreaching or leaning sideways.

These steps dramatically reduce the risk of falls from height.

Using Stepladders Safely

Stepladders are widely used in workplaces, retail stores, warehouses, and even at home. While convenient, they carry their own risks if not used correctly. The Stepladders Safety Checklist covers common hazards and best practices, including:

• Never stand on the top three steps unless a safe handhold is available.

• Always position the stepladder facing the work task, not side-on.

• Avoid tasks that create side-loading, such as drilling into solid walls. If side-on loading is unavoidable, the stepladder must be properly secured.

• Avoid overreaching – reposition the stepladder instead of leaning to the side.

In certain situations, such as narrow retail aisles, side-on work may be permitted if the stepladder is fully locked and risk assessed. Otherwise, alternative access equipment should be considered.

Ladder Inspection Checklist

Beyond pre-use checks, ladders also require regular formal inspections. The Ladder Inspection Checklist helps ensure that your equipment remains safe over time and that you meet compliance standards. Recording inspections provides valuable evidence of due diligence and reinforces a culture of safety in the workplace.

Why Download the HLS Ladders Safety Toolkit?

• Stay compliant with health and safety regulations.

• Reduce risks of ladder-related accidents.

• Empower your team with clear, practical guidance.

• Save time with easy-to-use checklists.

Simply fill out the short form, and your free download will be instantly available.