114. An employer shall ensure that—

(a) a ladder is used for work at height only if the risk assessment has demonstrated that the use of more suitable work equipment is not justified because—

(i) the level of risk is low, and

(ii) the duration of use is short, or

(iii) existing features at the place of work cannot be altered,

(b) any surface upon which a ladder rests is stable, firm, of sufficient strength and of suitable composition to support safely the ladder, so that the ladder's rungs or steps and any loading intended to be placed on it remain horizontal,

(c) a ladder is so positioned as to ensure its stability during use,

(d) a suspended ladder is attached in a secure manner so that, with the exception of a flexible ladder, it cannot be displaced and swinging is prevented,

(e) a portable ladder is prevented from slipping during use by—

(i) securing the stiles at or near their upper or lower ends,

(ii) effective anti-slip or other effective stability devices, or

(iii) any other arrangement of equivalent effectiveness,

(f) a ladder used for access is long enough to protrude sufficiently above the place of landing to which it provides access, unless other measures have been taken to ensure a firm handhold,

(g) no interlocking or extension ladder is used unless its sections are prevented from moving relative to each other while in use,

(h) a mobile ladder is prevented from moving before it is used,

(j) a ladder is used in such a way that—

(i) a secure handhold and secure support are always available to the employee and

(ii) the employee can maintain a safe handhold when carrying a load unless, in the case of a step ladder, the maintenance of a handhold is not practicable when a load is carried, and the risk assessment has demonstrated that the use of a stepladder is justified because—

(I) the level of risk is low, and

(II) the duration of use is short.