AS 1657: Ladders, Platforms & Walkways — Fast Guide for Facilities
AS 1657 sets the baseline for safe fixed access: ladders, platforms, and walkways. This page shows what “good” looks like — and the quick wins we recommend before you spend on major works.
Typical issues (and fixes)
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Clearances & landings: Missing intermediate landings on long climbs; fix with compliant rest platforms and ladder cage/ fall-prevention solutions where appropriate.
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Step-throughs & handrails: Unsafe transitions onto roofs; add self-closing gates and continuous handrail/guardrail.
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Walkways on fragile roofs: Inadequate support; install engineered walkways with toeboards where there’s drop risk.
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Slip resistance & housekeeping: Build-up of moss/dust; adopt a cleaning/inspection schedule and specify slip-resistant surfaces.
How to prepare for an audit
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Provide any available drawings and prior reports.
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Identify all access paths in use (formal or “informal”).
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Close out obvious issues (loose fixings, missing gates) before inspection.
Consulting & design (product-agnostic)
When fixes are needed, our consultants design towards passive protection first (eliminate, then prevent), minimising the need for fall-arrest. You get a short, practical plan and budget-order options.