Posted By Martyn Hendrie You do not give any details regarding the activity to be carried out, or the environment in which the ladder will be used. However, The Construction (Health, Safety & Welfare)Reglations require employers to give careful consideration to the type of work that can be undertaken safely from a ladder. These days preference should often be given to using system scaffolds or MEWP's HSE Guidance HSG150(rev)states "Ladders are best used as a means of getting to a workplace. They should should only be used as a workplace for short-term work. They are only suitable for light work. If ladders are to be used make sure - the work only requires one hand to be used - the work can be reached without stretching - the ladder can be fixed to prevent slipping; and - a good handhold is available" As regards fixing, ladders should be secured from falling by fixing at the top, if that is not possible by fixing at the bottom and only if the ladder cannot be fixed should a second person be used to "foot" the ladder. There are a number of stability aids on the market, your local plant hire company is likely source of supply. Whether there use would meet the legal requirements in isolation would depend upon the circumstances at the time. Hope this helps