Ladder Work — Safe Work Method Statement
Safe Work Method Statement for the use of portable ladders (extension, step, and platform ladders) for access and short-duration work tasks at height in construction and maintenance environments.
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Ladder work triggers HRCW obligations under the model WHS Regulations whenever the risk of a fall exceeds 2 metres. Even where the task itself is below this threshold, a SWMS is considered best practice and may be required by the principal contractor's site safety plan. The Safe Work Australia Model Code of Practice: Managing the Risk of Falls at Workplaces provides the primary guidance framework and should be referenced in this SWMS.
Ladders are considered a control measure of last resort under the hierarchy of controls — they should only be used where safer access solutions such as scaffolding, EWPs, or work platforms are not reasonably practicable. When ladders are used, they must comply with AS/NZS 1892 (Portable ladders), which sets out requirements for construction, testing, and load ratings. Fibreglass ladders are mandatory when working in the vicinity of electrical installations. Extension ladders must be secured at the top, angled at a 1-in-4 ratio (75 degrees), and extend at least 1 metre above the landing point.
There are no specific trade licences required for ladder use alone. However, any electrical, plumbing, or gas work performed from a ladder must still be undertaken by appropriately licensed tradespeople. Competency in safe ladder use is an employer obligation — workers must be trained and instructed in the requirements of AS/NZS 1892 and the relevant code of practice before working at height.
When customising this template, specify the ladder type, material, length, and load rating; the task to be performed from the ladder; the height at which work will occur; and the specific securing method to be used. If the ladder is being used on uneven or sloped ground, document the levelling devices or additional controls in place. Tasks requiring both hands free are generally unsuitable for ladder work and should prompt reassessment of the access method.
This SWMS is applicable in all states and territories, including Western Australia (which adopted the model WHS laws in 2022). Victorian users should reference the Occupational Health and Safety Regulations 2017 and the WorkSafe Victoria publication on preventing falls in general construction.
Personal Protective Equipment
High Risk Construction Work Types
- •Work at height more than 2 metres
Risk Assessment
1.Ladder selection and pre-use inspection
| Hazard / Risk | Initial Risk | Control Measures | Residual Risk | Responsibility |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Use of defective or unsuitable ladder resulting in structural failure | High | Select a ladder rated to AS/NZS 1892 appropriate for the task — industrial grade (Class 1, 120 kg rated) for all construction use. Inspect ladder before each use for cracked or bent stiles, missing or damaged rungs, defective feet, and locking mechanisms. Do not use timber ladders. If any defect is found, remove from service, apply a red danger tag, and report to supervisor. Ensure ladder is long enough for the task — never stand on the top three rungs of an extension ladder. | Low | Worker / Supervisor |
| Ladder height insufficient, requiring unsafe overstretching | High | Select a ladder that allows the worker to complete the task without reaching more than arm's length from either side or above the shoulders. If the correct ladder height is not available, use an alternative fall protection solution (scaffolding, EWP). Never stand on objects to increase effective height. Never join two ladders together unless specifically designed for coupling. | Low | Worker / Supervisor |
2.Setting up and securing the ladder
| Hazard / Risk | Initial Risk | Control Measures | Residual Risk | Responsibility |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ladder base slip or top slide causing fall | Catastrophic | Set extension ladders at a 1:4 angle (75°). Place on firm, level ground — use a ladder mat or foot plate on soft or uneven surfaces. Secure the top of the ladder to a fixed structure using ladder clamps, purpose-built hooks, or a securing rope before anyone ascends. Where top securing is not possible, a second person must hold the base for the entire duration of use. Apply a rubber mat or sandbag to the base on slippery floors. Place step ladders on level ground with spreader bar fully locked. | Moderate | Worker / Spotter |
| Ladder positioned on or near a door or traffic area | High | Never set a ladder in front of a door unless the door is locked, blocked open, and signposted. In pedestrian or vehicle traffic areas, cordon off a 1.5 m radius exclusion zone around the ladder with barriers and signage before ascending. Assign a spotter to control the exclusion zone if the area cannot be closed. | Low | Worker / Spotter |
3.Ascending, descending, and working from ladder
| Hazard / Risk | Initial Risk | Control Measures | Residual Risk | Responsibility |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Loss of balance causing fall while working from ladder | Catastrophic | Maintain three points of contact (two hands and one foot, or two feet and one hand) at all times while ascending, descending, and working. Face the ladder at all times — never face outward. Do not carry items in both hands — use a tool belt or raise materials via a haul line. Do not lean sideways — if you cannot reach the work area comfortably from the current ladder position, descend and reposition the ladder. Limit time working from a ladder — for tasks exceeding 30 minutes at height, use scaffolding or an EWP instead. | Moderate | Worker |
| Working from ladder in high traffic or dynamic environment | High | Assess whether ladder work is appropriate — if the environment has moving vehicles, forklift traffic, or significant pedestrian movement, use scaffolding or an EWP instead. If ladder work must proceed, stop all nearby vehicle and pedestrian traffic within the exclusion zone and barricade. Conduct toolbox talk on ladder safety before commencing. | Low | Site Supervisor |
4.Storing and transporting ladders on site
| Hazard / Risk | Initial Risk | Control Measures | Residual Risk | Responsibility |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ladder falling from transport vehicle or storage rack striking persons | High | Secure ladders to vehicle roof racks or trailers using rated tie-down straps with a minimum two strap configuration — front and rear. Do not hang ladders over the vehicle rear by more than 1.2 m without an approved overhang flag. Store ladders horizontally on rated wall-mounted brackets or on the ground in a clearly marked area away from walkways. Do not lean ladders against walls unsecured. | Low | Worker / Driver |
Relevant Codes of Practice
Worker Acknowledgement
By signing below, I confirm that I have read, understood and agree to comply with this Safe Work Method Statement.