The HSE has compiled the most common work-at-height myths, which have entered the industry via confusing messages or miscommunication by many organisations that may have their own preferences and site rules.
[Source: HSE]
Myth 3 of 4: You Need to Have Two Feet and one Hand on a Stepladder at all Times When Carrying out a Task
No, this isn’t true. When you need to have both hands free for a brief period to do a job using a stepladder (eg putting a box on a shelf, hanging wallpaper, installing a smoke detector on a ceiling) you need to maintain three points of contact at the working position. This is not just two feet and one hand, it can be two feet and your body (use your knees or chest to help with stability) supported by the stepladder. Ensure a handhold is available to steady yourself before and after.
The response from the HSE states that the user can use their feet and body to help them to maintain three points of contact, freeing up both hands to carry out the task. Of course, there will be heavier duty tasks that take more time to complete, and for this type it work it may be more appropriate to use equipment designed for a more in depth task of this kind, such as our newest arrival – the Little Giant Fortress stepladder.
Features such as the larger platform and self closing locking tabs will offer you a more comfortable working position and allow you to free up your hands for longer for those longer or more heavy duty challenges.
Other unique features on the Fortress include:
- Hi-Viz Green Fibreglass (GRP) – Insulated to work around electricity
- Ground Cue – An audible and tactile click when stepping down onto the first tread will alert the user that they are on the lowest tread, and therefore now safe to climb off the product
- Slim Storage – The Fortress compacts down like a traditional step ladder, making it easy to transport around the site
- Extra Deep/Wide Platform – A deeper wider platform compared to traditional platform steps, offering you a comfortable and safe working area
View similar products to the Fortress here.