Rank: Forum user 
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hi safety gurus,
what would be the basis of recommending a ladder or stairs as an access in going up to a certain platform?
the platform is around 5 meters high, and the activity to be done on the platform would be inspection and repair of equipment. would appreciated if you can give a reference (standard) where i can find the answer of my querry.
thanks a lot
Bobby Jr.
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Rank: Super forum user
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Assuming there is equipment to be carried up to do the maintainance work, stairs would be the best option....although a cost effective alternative might be to use a ladder for access to the platform and pull any tools or equipment up on a rope, depending on the task. (SFAIRP)
As for a reference, the W@H Regulation 6 (4) states "You must ensure that the place where work is done at height (including access and egress) is safe"
Maybe a bit more info will throw up a few more responses.
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Rank: Super forum user
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Bobby, what room is there around the work platform? If there is enough room for a stairway and the maintenance activity requires the movement of tools etc, I would say go for the stairway option. Remember the work area needs to have fall prevention around it. How often is the workplace accessed, that would need to be factored in as once a year is rather weak to go to the cost and ladders and hoists would be enough. As frankc said a bit more info would help generate some usually very good answers.
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Rank: Forum user
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Hi Bobby
Another point to consider is the fire situation? What is going on below the platform, combustible materials, distance to exit, etc, etc!
Regards
MG
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Rank: New forum user 
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What is the duration of the task?
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Rank: Forum user 
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You also have to consider the nature of the tasks being undertaken whilst up there. Will personnell be lone working at height, working on electrical equipment etc....what rescue plans do you have in place for ladder access.
How will you get casualties down if you have ladders?
Are the people who will be using the ladder be "WAH" trained?
Do you have resuce at height trained people?
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Rank: Super forum user
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Try and get hold of a copy of BS5395 pt.3 The Code of Practice for Industrial Stairs, Ladders and Walkways. This should help you determine how to approach the issue. The choice can be based on a number of factors such as frequency of use, height etc. For your type of senario (up to 5m) I think the COP would suggest the use of companion way stairs, although as said before various factors come into play and a ladder may also be deemed appropriate. If you follow the reasoning described in the COP at least then you have some authoratitive backing for your decision. Hope this helps.
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Rank: Super forum user
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Further to my previous post companion stairs are only really suitable for 3m rises (not 5m as stated). For your senario the COP would suggest the use of stairs over ladders. Apologies for any confusion caused.
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Rank: Forum user
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