Do you have a stepladder in your workplace? If so then there are a few things to consider before it is used. The university has a policy that all stepladders used across the organisation are trade stepladders. This means that the stepladder you use at work must be compliant with BS EN 131. When you buy a stepladder this standard should be noted in the item description, however if it isn’t, ask the supplier before you buy. Like all work equipment, stepladders need to be inspected regularly for damage and faults to ensure they remain safe to use. To ensure this is done you can buy a LadderTag inspection manual and tag system which takes the user through a detailed 6 monthly check which must be recorded. In addition to this the tag system takes the user through a pre-use visual inspection which doesn't need to be recorded, but does need to be carried out before each use. Anyone can carry out the inspection, but if you are unsure please contact Mike Young, our department’s Health & Safety Advisor, and he will visit to take you through the inspection. If you use a stepladder on a regular basis you should attend the central Health & Safety team’s stepladder use and inspection training. To find the next available course, please check out the Health & Safety Training site.