What are the ladder safety rules at work?

Updated 2026-10-04 · UK law and HSE guidance

Short answer

Use a ladder only where a risk assessment shows more protective equipment is not justified because the work is low risk and short duration, or site features cannot be changed. As HSE guidance, consider alternative equipment if work on a ladder exceeds 30 minutes. Use a competent person, stable setup and secure handhold.

Key facts
Use case	Low-risk, short-duration work or unalterable site features
Duration guide	Consider alternatives above 30 minutes at a time
Leaning-ladder angle	About 75°, using the 1-in-4 rule
Contact	Maintain three points where possible
Access ladder	Extend sufficiently above landing unless another firm handhold exists
User	Competent, or supervised while training

Choose a ladder only after assessing the task

A ladder is not automatically unsuitable, but it provides less fall protection than a working platform. Use one only when assessment shows that higher-protection equipment is not justified by the low risk and short duration, or existing features cannot be altered. HSE's 30-minute figure is guidance, not a permission threshold; risk remains the deciding factor.

Consider the height, duration, load, reach and environment
Do not use a ladder for heavy or strenuous work
Select the correct type and length rather than improvising

Set it up securely

Place the ladder on a firm, level surface so steps or rungs remain horizontal. Prevent a portable ladder from slipping by securing it, using an effective stability device or an equivalent arrangement. For a leaning ladder, the 1-in-4 rule gives an angle of about 75 degrees. Protect it from vehicles, doors and pedestrians and never rest it on movable objects.

Inspect stiles, rungs, feet, locking devices and fixings before use
Keep access ladders sufficiently above the landing unless another handhold is provided
Prevent a mobile ladder from moving before anyone steps on it

Use it correctly

Maintain a secure handhold and support, keeping three points of contact where possible. Avoid overreaching: keep the body between the stiles and reposition the ladder. Carry only light items that do not prevent a safe handhold. Stop in unsuitable weather or if damage is found. Formal inspections should follow the risk and manufacturer's guidance. SitePaper can document ladder controls in a risk assessment or RAMS.

Face the ladder when climbing
Keep footwear and rungs clean
Tag defective equipment out of use and arrange repair or disposal

Sources

This guide summarises UK law and HSE guidance for small businesses. It is not legal advice; check the sources and your own circumstances.