Use of ladders for window cleaning is one of the high priority issues for HSE (Health & Safety). In the light of such concerns, a new set of regulations were released in 2005 stating new guidelines.

As a business we have endeavoured to keep in step with these regulations by using our ladderless system, and keeping ladder usage to an absolute minimum.

"The Work at Height Regulations 2005 apply to all work at height where there is a risk of a fall liable to cause personal injury. They place duties on employers, the self-employed, and any person who controls the work of others (EG facilities managers or building owners who may contract others to work at height)"

Duty holders’ responsibilities

"You must ... ensure that no work is done at height if it is safe and reasonably practicable to do it other than at height"

NB - Ladders are dangerous and it is wise to avoid using them if it is at all possible.

 

The 2005 Health & Safety WAH legislation makes the owner of the premises or contract manager/organiser where work is being undertaken responsible for ensuring that any work undertaken conforms to ALL Health & Safety legislation.

HSE Proposals for Work at Height Regulations, the consultative document issued by the Health and Safety Executive Commission, states:  "pole-cleaning systems may be used for cleaning windows so that the work can be carried out from the ground."

More details can be found at:

http://www.hmso.gov.uk/si/si2005/20050735.htm#6

http://www.hse.gov.uk

HSE Statistic - In 2001/2002 68 people died and nearly 4,000 suffered a serious injury as a result of a fall from a height. The use of ladders is dangerous and it is wise to avoid using them on site if it is at all possible.

© Images Elaine Warmington