Published on: 10 November 2021

It has become appaernt during H&S visits to departments that some kickstools and step ladders that are no longer considered to be of safe condition or confirm to BS standards, HSE guidance etc are being used. All department which use equipment to gain height are encouraged to check the following:
 
Kickstool / dalek, elephant's foot:
Does it comply to BS EN 18 143 2003?
Are all the wheels present?  
Do they rotate freely? 
Do wheel springs allow the stool to sit firmly when stood on.
Is there any material clogging the mechanism? 
Are there any cracks or other sign of damage? 
Is the base ring intact and in good condition?
Are non slip coverings soundly attached?
Is the surface of the platform free from contamination by dirt or fluids?
 
Stepladder:
Does it comply to BS EN 131Professional (BS EN 131non-Professional have not been tested to the same standard and recommended for home use only)?
Are all the feet present and in good condition? The ladder may slip.
Are the sides in good condition and not buckled or bent? The ladder may collapse.
Are all the steps present, in good condition and free from contamination by dirt or fluids?
Are locking mechanisms in good condition? The ladder may collapse.
Are there any cracks or other sign of damage? 
 
All equipment must be checked before each use.
All equipment must be subject to a recorded periodic check schedule.
 
Updated guidance is due to be published on the staff intranet in due course. If any department requires any advice regarding  equipment including training and safe use guidance, please get in touch with the Health and Safety Team:
 
South Tyneside ext 1220 / 1219
Sunderland ext 40113 / 49613
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