FB,
We had to address the issue of working >2 metres when State legislation dictated, so after some discussion with WorkSafe they accepted a line in the manual: take care when climbing the side of the helicopter!
Re the 117, the steps should have non slip as should the top of the cabin roof as a factory standard. If you haven't got non slip then that's the first thing that I'd call for. Have you the particle separator? That intrudes on the 'standing area' on the roof and will make life difficult, also have you got the grab handle for holding when climbing? The built in steps, while small, are fine for the job IMO, and if used correctly along with holding on to the upper step and then the grab handle should be quite safe: the old truckie's '3 points of contact'
