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General information only. This site does not provide legal advice. Always consult a qualified solicitor.
In-depth guide · Last reviewed June 2026

Ladder accident at work: compensation claims in the UK

What does UK law say about ladder use?

WAHR 2005 — ladder as last resort; inspection before use; secure footing; three-point contact; competent persons

Common causes of ladder accidents

unsecured base, defective rungs, overloading, wrong angle, wet/icy conditions, wrong ladder for height

Who is at highest risk?

Construction, maintenance, telecoms, utilities, retail (high shelving)

How is a ladder accident claim valued?

Depends on injury — link to /fall-from-height-claim, /back-injury-at-work, /head-injury-at-work

What if the ladder was faulty?

PUWER 1998 maintenance duty

What if you were not trained in ladder safety?

WAHR 2005 competency requirement

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Can you claim? Find out in four quick steps.

Enquiries may be referred to SRA-regulated UK solicitor firms where appropriate. No win, no fee is subject to solicitor assessment of your individual case.

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Where did the accident happen?

Pick the setting closest to your situation.

Sources

  1. : Work at Height Regulations 2005
  2. PUWER 1998
  3. HSE Ladder safety guidance

This guide is editorial information about UK law. It is not legal advice and does not create a solicitor–client relationship. For advice on your circumstances, speak to a regulated personal-injury solicitor.