Safe Operating Procedure
Trestles, Planks & Ladders
PPE Required
General Safety Instructions
- Complete pre-start checklist
- Read Manufacturers Operation Manual (www.flexihire.com.au)
- Report any faults or damage to Flexihire 1300FLEXIHIRE
- Do not wear loose clothing or jewellery
- Do not operate equipment near pedestrians or people
- Do not operate without the appropriate PPE as detailed
- Do not operate equipment under the influence of drugs or alcohol
General Electricity Safety
- Ensure all electrical equipment has a current test tag within 3 months
- Do not operate equipment in or around water or damp environments
- It is recommended to use a safety switch to power this equipment
- Ensure the power lead is well stowed and do not present trip hazards
- Isolate the power by removing the plug prior to performing any work on the equipment including prior to changing leads or tools or bits
Risk Assessment
- Assess the immediate work area for any hazards
- Control or eliminate all the risks associated with the hazards
- Hazards to check for that may require risk control-
❑ Overhead power lines
❑ Digging
❑ Confined space
❑ Traffic & moving machinery
❑ Stored energy – air, hydraulic, electricity, pressure
❑ Working at height
❑ Falling objects
❑ High Voltage
❑ Any stored energy
Operating Safety Instructions
| Inspect the trestles, planks and ladders prior to use and before every shift | Never use where an electrical hazard exists. Avoid power lines (minimum clearance 5-8m: consult with local electricity authority) |
| Do not attempt to repair damaged equipment — return it to Flexihire | At the commencement of each working shift and after stormy weather inspect the trestles for any structural damage ego cracked welds, bends, twists, splits, cracks worn broken, missing parts, verticals/horizontals, trays, ladders, handrails etc. |
| Always use 2 planks (min 450mm) and ensure the planks are locked together in the middle with a safety device unless performing light work. Light work permits 225mm width or single planks and light work includes inspections, painting, roof trusses or guttering | Do not use equipment if damaged or if you are unsure. IF UNSURE DO NOT USE |
| When the platform is above 3M the trestles ladders must be secured, 450mm wide and must not be higher than 5M | Always maintain 3 points of contact when on access ladders or extension ladders |
| Persons erecting the trestles and platforms must have fall prevention | Ladders to be no higher than 6.1M |
| Do not stand on the rails or use tool boxes or other items to gain additional height above the platform | Ladders to be erected at an angle between 70 and 80 degrees |
| Do not suspend electrical leads to the trestles or planks | Ladders to extend at least 1M above the surface being accessed |
| Do not exceed the safe working load (SWL) | Ladders must be secured at the top from moving |
| Do not move the trestles with people or material on it |
FMS10-5.1.3.9.9.7 SOP Trestles Planks & Ladders
Version #: FLX 3.1
Issue: October 2021
Review: October 2026
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