Understanding the strengths and limitations of each type of equipment can help reduce the risk of falls, improve productivity and ensure compliance with UK health and safety legislation.
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Why Equipment Choice Matters
According to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), falls from height remain the leading cause of fatal injuries in the workplace. Many of these incidents occur because the wrong access equipment has been chosen for the task.
Before beginning any work at height, employers should consider:
- The height of the task
- How long the work will take
- The condition of the ground
- The tools and materials being used
- The need for both hands while working
- The frequency of access
Selecting the safest equipment is often the simplest way to prevent accidents before they happen.
When Is a Ladder Suitable?
Ladders remain an important piece of access equipment and are perfectly acceptable for many low-risk jobs.
They are generally suitable when:
- The task is short in duration
- Three points of contact can be maintained
- Minimal tools are required
- The work area is stable and level
- The risk assessment identifies a ladder as the safest option
Typical examples include:
- Changing light fittings
- Carrying out inspections
- Accessing loft spaces
- Minor maintenance work
Ladders should never be used simply because they are quicker than setting up safer equipment.
When Should You Use a Mobile Access Tower?
Mobile access towers provide a larger and more stable working platform than ladders, making them the preferred choice for many construction and maintenance tasks.
A tower is often the better option when:
- The work will take longer than a few minutes
- Both hands are needed
- Tools and materials need to be kept close to the work area
- Workers need freedom to move safely
- Multiple people may need access
The guardrails and enclosed platform significantly reduce the likelihood of falls compared with ladder work.
Safety Advantages of Mobile Towers
Mobile towers offer several important safety benefits.
Better Stability
A properly assembled tower provides a secure platform that allows workers to concentrate on the task instead of maintaining their balance.
Improved Productivity
Workers can safely carry tools, equipment and materials onto the platform, reducing the need for repeated climbing.
Reduced Fatigue
Standing on a platform is far less physically demanding than remaining on a ladder for extended periods.
Greater Protection
Guardrails and toe boards help prevent both falls and dropped objects, protecting workers above and those below.
Common Mistakes When Using Towers
Although mobile towers are safer than ladders in many situations, they must still be used correctly.
Common mistakes include:
- Missing braces during assembly
- Climbing the outside of the tower
- Moving the tower while occupied
- Using damaged components
- Ignoring manufacturer guidance
- Failing to inspect the tower before use
These mistakes can quickly turn a safe system into a dangerous one.
Do You Need Training?
Yes.
Anyone assembling, dismantling or moving a mobile access tower should receive suitable training.
PASMA training teaches delegates how to:
- Assemble towers safely
- Inspect equipment
- Identify hazards
- Use towers correctly
- Dismantle structures safely
- Work in accordance with current legislation
For ladder users, appropriate ladder safety training may also be required depending on the work being carried out.
What Does the Law Say?
The Work at Height Regulations 2005 require employers to avoid working at height where possible and, where it cannot be avoided, to use the most suitable work equipment.
This means choosing the safest method for the job rather than simply the quickest or cheapest option.
The HSE also promotes a hierarchy of control, encouraging employers to use collective protection, such as guardrails and working platforms, wherever reasonably practicable.
Which Should You Choose?
There is no single answer.
A ladder may be perfectly suitable for a quick inspection lasting only a few minutes.
A mobile access tower is usually the safer choice where work is more complex, takes longer, or requires greater freedom of movement.
The decision should always be based on a suitable risk assessment rather than convenience.
Learn to Work Safely at Height
At One Stop Safety Training, we deliver accredited PASMA Towers for Users, Working at Height, and IPAF courses from training centres across the North West.
Whether you're new to working at height or looking to refresh your knowledge, our experienced instructors can help you develop the practical skills needed to work safely and confidently while complying with current UK legislation.
