Posted By Martyn Hendrie I agree that the situation you describe is not acceptable. The legislation allows for guard rails to be removed to allow for the passage of men and materials. In practice it would be normal to remove a short section of both top and intermediate guard rail (and toe board) to form a suitable ladder access. The gap should be as small as practicable (usually around 0.5 m) It would also be prudent to move or close off the gap when/if the work is in the immediate vicinity of the ladder access. Having an arrangement where men have to climb over/under a guard rail is not acceptable. Hope this helps.

Posted By Bill Fisher Dyfed Two points if I may; 1. Regarding your query on scaffolding: Martyn is quite correct but it goes beyond Risk Assessment. In the period '95 to '97 there was a civil case in Scotland when a labourer claimed compensation from his employer and won. In essence he claimed that the constant negotiation of upper guardrail and occassionally toeboard when alighting from a ladder caused and agravated a back problem. Next day the HSE in England (Cumbria) etc were pursueing a strategy of no obstructions at the top of ladders. Steps had to be taken to protect any potential hazard from an opening. Hope this helps. 2. It is considered rather rude in internet terms to repost to climb the ladder. In fairness to the other users of the Forum may I suggest that out of courtesy you do not repeat. Regards Bill

Posted By Gary Browning Quite right Robert, practical safety advice, NOT THEORY. Get in right in the planning stage don't argue about once it's up. Method statements hopw are they going to get on the roof should be addressesd before you put give them the contract to do the job. Get a copy and Read the National Association of Scaffolding Contractors ACOP written in conjuction with the HSE. Available from the association. This is how access Scaffolding should be done. But take Roberts advice it's very valid.