AS 1892.5:2020 Portable ladders Part 5: Selection, safe use and care

AS 1892.5:2020 Portable ladders Part 5: Selection, safe use and care. 2.11 Stepladders Double-sided step ladders should only be used in the fully open position. A single-sided stepladder may be used in the closed position by leaning it against a support. In this case, all of the load should be carried by the front stiles. 2.12 Trestle ladders Trestle ladders should only be used in the fully open position. Trestle ladders with a rung spacing that exceeds 300 mm should only be used when incorporated into a scaffold system. Trestle ladders with a rung spacing of 300 mm may be used as a standalone ladder. NOTE The additional rung spacing on some trestle ladders is to allow scaffold planks to be installed. The design and use of trestle ladder scaffolds should be in accordance with AS/NZS 1576.5. 2.13 Use of ladders to support working platforms 2.13.1 Self-supporting ladders Only trestle ladders or multipurpose ladders configured as trestle ladders should be used to support a scaffold plank or platform upon which a person is to work. Use of these ladders when supporting planks or working platforms should be in accordance with AS/NZS 1576.5. 2.13.2 Non self-supporting ladders Extension ladders or single ladders should not be used to support a plank upon which a person has to work. NOTE This Standard no longer includes provision for the use of ladder brackets that connect to the rungs and support a single plank. 2.13.3 Improper use A ladder should not be used as a replacement for guys, braces, struts, beams, skids, bridges, ramps or gangways, or for any other use than that specified in the manufacturer’s instructions. 2.14 Use of fall arrest Industrial fall arrest equipment should not be installed onto a ladder unless permitted in the manufacturer’s instructions. Ladders that incorporate integral fall arrest devices should be used as specified in the manufacturer’s instructions. Fall arrest equipment that is separate to the ladder may be used where the use does not interfere with the integrity or stability of the ladder or prevent the user from climbing or using the ladder as recommended in Clauses 2.7 and 2.8. Fall arrest equipment and systems should conform to the AS/NZS 1891 series. NOTE In an arrested fall, the total fall distance includes the free fall distance, plus any lanyard/harness stretch, lanyard deployment and anchorage deflection. Many ladders do not provide sufficient distance between the user’s feet...