Posted By Ali Can anyone provide advice on working over staircases in a residential type property.It is a commercial operation and not DIY. Previously boards and 2 ladders have been used, but the boards are unsecured and have open edges / gaps where operatives can fall through.I don't think it is a safe system of work and I wondered if anyone came across anything similar ? Thank you, Ali

Posted By Kesp Ali Can the work be undertaken without having to work at height? If not you need to provide a safe working platform that is “stable and of sufficient strength and rigidity for the purpose for which it is intended to be or is being used” With the greatest respect I would suggest you read the Work at Height Regulations 2005 then come back and ask any questions. I am more than willing to provide any answers if I can. You can find a copy of the regs at the link below: http://www.opsi.gov.uk/si/si2005/20050735.htm#sch3 Good luck

Posted By Clive Lowery Hi Ali, We are a ceiling and partition installation contractor and often have the sort of scenario you describe. We usually get around it by erecting Youngman Boss Towers, linked with Youngman Boards c/w Handrails You can also get a small purpose built Stairmax from Youngman Boss (Pictures available on their website). I have also seen advertised a frame that can be easily ereceted on the stairs utilising its adjustable leg heights and then has a sliding cover to block off the stairs, thereby eliminating the work at height, seem to recall they were rather expensive for what they were though. Don't have any of the details to hand at the moment but if you are interested drop me an email and I will try and dig something out for you. Good Luck Clive

Posted By Clive Lowery Ali, If cost is the issue then why don't you look at hiring in the equipment as and when needed. If you carry out the task on a regular basis you should be able to get a good deal with one of the propriatory hire companies. In your original posting you state you don't think it is a safe system of work, the only further advice I can give is not to allow it to continue. God forbid someone was seriously injured. Whilst hindsight is a wonderful thing, failing to act on a foreseeable risk usually ends up in the courts and is expensive. If you need to back up your arguement try the HSE website for injuries and prosecution statistics for falls from height. Good Luck Clive