Ladder Rung Safety: What UK Businesses Must Know

Ladders remain one of the most frequently used pieces of equipment across UK workplaces – from warehouses and factories to construction sites, utilities, maintenance teams and retail environments. Yet ladder-related accidents continue to be one of the most common causes of workplace injuries. Ensuring safe ladder use isn’t just good practice; it is a legal requirement for employers.

This guide explains the essential safety considerations for ladder rungs, what UK legislation applies, and how businesses can reduce the risk of slips and falls with simple, effective improvements.

Why Ladder Rung Safety Matters

A surprising percentage of ladder accidents occur not because the ladder itself fails, but because the user slips on a rung. Over time, ladder rungs can become:

• Worn smooth
• Slippery due to oils, dust or moisture
• Difficult to grip when wearing protective footwear
• Hazardous in outdoor or industrial environments

Improving ladder rung traction is one of the simplest and most cost-effective ways to reduce workplace accidents.

UK Law: What Businesses Must Comply With

Employers have a legal duty to ensure that work at height – including ladder use – is properly planned, supervised and carried out safely.

1. Work at Height Regulations 2005

These regulations require that:

• Ladders must be suitable for the task
• Equipment must be well maintained and inspected regularly
• Work at height must avoid unnecessary risks
• Surfaces, including rungs, must be non-slip and safe for use

2. Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 (PUWER)

PUWER states that employers must:

• Provide work equipment that is safe, suitable and maintained
• Ensure equipment does not put users at risk
• Train employees in the safe use of equipment

3. Health and Safety at Work Act 1974

Employers must take “reasonably practicable” steps to maintain a safe working environment. Allowing staff to use ladders with worn or slippery rungs may breach this requirement.

What Causes Unsafe Ladder Rungs?

Ladder rungs may become hazardous due to:

• Wear and tear from heavy use
• Smooth or polished metal surfaces
• Dirt, dust, oil, paint or moisture
• Outdoor exposure leading to algae or corrosion
• Inadequate footing due to poor rung design
• Rungs that do not meet modern slip-resistant standards

Businesses should carry out regular ladder inspections, looking specifically at rung grip, cleanliness and integrity.

How to Improve Ladder Rung Safety

1. Install Anti-Slip Ladder Rung Covers

GRP ladder rung covers are one of the most effective solutions. They provide:

• A high-traction grit surface
• Strong adhesion to existing rungs
• Visibility improvements (especially yellow safety options)
• Durability and weather resistance
• Compatibility with round and square rungs

2. Clean Ladders Regularly

Ensure rungs are free from oil, dirt and moisture. Even small amounts of contamination increase slip risk.

3. Train Employees

Users should be trained to:

• Inspect ladders before use
• Ensure footwear is clean and appropriate
• Maintain three points of contact
• Avoid over-reaching

4. Replace Damaged Equipment

Any ladder with bent, cracked or severely worn rungs must be removed from service.

5. Use the Right Ladder for the Job

Each ladder type suits different tasks. Choosing the wrong one increases the risk of an accident.

Benefits of Investing in Ladder Rung Safety

• Reduces workplace accidents
• Improves employee confidence
• Ensures legal compliance
• Minimises downtime and business liability
• Extends the lifespan of existing ladders

For most businesses, adding anti-slip ladder rung covers is an inexpensive upgrade compared to replacing entire ladder fleets.

Ladder rung safety is not optional for UK businesses – it is a legal responsibility under the Work at Height Regulations 2005, PUWER and the Health and Safety at Work Act. Slips from ladder rungs are entirely preventable with improved rung grip, regular inspections and simple upgrades such as anti-slip ladder rung covers.

By taking these steps, employers can create a safer working environment, reduce accident risk and ensure all ladders meet modern safety standards.