Using portable ladders reading: Free IELTS general training reading test pdf with answers 2026. The IELTS General Reading practice test comprises three sections to be completed within 60 minutes, encompassing a total of 40 questions across formats such as matching headings, true/false/not given, sentence completion, and multiple choice.
This reading practice test is designed to assist candidates preparing for the General Training module in developing the competencies required to interpret everyday texts, including advertisements, official notices, employment-related materials, and instructional documents, in addition to extended passages addressing topics of general interest. Engaging with updated practice materials for 2026 enables candidates to familiarise themselves with current question structures, refine time-management strategies, and strengthen the reading proficiency necessary to attain a higher band score.
This IELTS general training reading section contains notes completion questions. You have to complete the given notes with information from passages.
Topic: Using portable ladders reading
Employers need to oversee all ladders that are owned by their company. Detailed visual inspections should be carried out on a regular basis, and they should have an up to date record of these. Before starting a job employers are also responsible for ensuring any ladder is the right length to meet the needs of the task reaching from the very top of a ladder is highly dangerous.
Once you get to use a ladder you as a user of the ladder should conduct a pre use check each working day. Conducting pre use checks should have been part of your training and should be done in accordance with the manufacturer’s guidelines. When doing a check it is important to focus on the steps and make sure they are not loose as this could cause an accident. Similarly a cracked joint in the ladder could cause it to fail.
Almost all falls from ladders happen because the ladder moves unexpectedly. The key factor in preventing falls from ladders is to ensure your ladder is stable whilst being used. First make sure that you choose level ground on which to set up your ladder. There are specially designed tools you can use to ensure this – don’t just use a piece of wood. Second check the ground surface is dirt free and solid so the feet can grip and the ladder doesn’t sink.
Before you go up your ladder look at the surrounding environment. Make sure the ladder cannot be struck by vehicles. If necessary safeguard the area by placing barriers and white cones around it. Ensure it will not be pushed over by other hazards such as opening doors. Doors and windows may need to be secured where possible. Finally think about the hazards to the general public and make sure they cannot walk underneath it or get too near to it. A danger sign at the base is often the best way of doing this.
To secure the ladder tie it to a suitable point such as a window or railing making sure both sides are attached. Where this is not practicable secure it to the base of the ladder with ties; avoid using blocks to wedge the ladder in place as they can easily move.
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Using portable ladders reading Questions
QUESTIONS 15-21
Complete the notes below.
Choose ONE WORD ONLY from the text for each answer.
15. Employers should keep a ………….. of ladder safety inspections.
16. Employers should check the ………….. of a ladder is suitable for the job.
17. The ………….. and joints of the ladder need particularly close inspection.
18. Make sure the ………….. of the ladder are resting on a clean, hard surface.
19. Protect the ladder from vehicles by using …………..
20. Use a ………….. to keep people away from the ladder.
21. Keep the ladder in place using ties rather than …………..
Using portable ladders reading answers
ANSWERS
15. record
16. length
17. steps
18. feet
19. cones
20. sign
21. blocks