Escape ladders

[SeaBass]

We have come across an old vertical escape ladder with a retractable lower section which is deployed by would be escapees by winding it down using a fixed crank handle.  It?s far from ideal, but will only be used by a couple of people who are practiced in its use. It is also due to be replaced in two years time during a building refurbishment which is currently being planned. In the mean time the thing has to be serviced and maintained. The manufacture is no longer in business, so we can?t recommend adherence to manufacturers recommendations. So we will need to comply with H&S guidance, but which guidance would cover such a piece of kit?  The Supply of Machinery (Safety) Regulations 2008 is for the supply of new equipment.  The ladder isn?t new.  The PUWER regs are really for work equipment. The ladder is in a work place but could it be classed a work equipment?   The LOWLER regs would cover the winding gear but that is just a part of the overall piece of kit. Do any of these apply or is there something I?ve missed?   

[AnthonyB]

Regulation 4(2) & 12 of the Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations seems to apply as it includes stairs and ladders and the Occupiers Liabiliity Act as well with regard to the route being in safe condition.

Weekly, Monthly & Three year structural inspections are the order of the day it seems after this case:
http://businessdatabase.indicator.co.uk/business_advice_directory/articles/fire_safety/external_fire_escape_collapsed/UKTAHSAR_EU12150401/related

[nearlythere]

Where have you come across this Seabass?

[SeaBass]

The ladder forms the final section of an alternative escape route, which crosses a flat roof,  from a late 19th century  building. The ground floor is a shop and the upper floors, which where at one time the shop keepers accommodation, are now used for stock rooms and staff welfare.   

[nearlythere]

I came across one very recently where there were steps with the top hinged to an eternal 1M2 platform and the heel linked to a winch by a cable. The platform was above a public street at first floor level. The idea was to get out on to the platform, wind the handle and drop the heel to ground level.