OSHA rules cover all step ladders, straight ladders and extension ladders whether they are wood, fiberglass or metal. Ladders must be maintained free of oil, grease, and other slipping hazards. Also, the rules can vary by ladder type (fixed versus portable). Ladder Safety Ladders are the "go-to" tool for any job that involves working from height—whether you're changing a light bulb, retrieving items from a high shelf, or painting a building. They are the step ladder, the straight ladder, the combination ladder, and the extension ladder (OSHA, n.d.b). Ladder Safety System. The ability of a ladder to sustain the loads indicated in this paragraph shall be determined by applying or transmitting the requisite load to the ladder in a downward vertical direction. Ladders must not be tied or fastened together to provide longer sections, unless they are specifically designed for such use. Ladder Safety. Wood job-made ladders with spliced side rails shall be used at an angle such that the horizontal distance is one-eighth the working length of the ladder. Ladders shall not be loaded beyond the maximum intended load for which they were built, nor beyond their manufacturer's rated capacity. Rungs, cleats, and steps of step stools shall be not less than 8 inches (20 cm) apart, nor more than 12 inches (31 cm) apart, as measured between center lines of the rungs, cleats, and steps. Info. Have at least both hands and one foot or both feet and one hand in contact with the ladder at all times. Ladders built and tested in conformance with the applicable provisions of appendix A will be deemed to meet this requirement. If your workers use any type of ladder for their work, the OSHA rules must be followed. OSHA requires that all of the manufacturer's requirements be followed when using a ladder, and these ladders must also be properly inspected before use. The mounting of ladder safety devices for fixed ladders shall conform to the following: Mountings for rigid carriers shall be attached at each end of the carrier, with intermediate mountings, as necessary, spaced along the entire length of the carrier, to provide the strength necessary to stop employees' falls. Inspect metal and fiberglass ladders for bends and breaks. Be aware of the ladder’s load rating and of the weight it is supporting, including the weight of any tools or equipment. 2. Also, the rules may vary depending on the type of ladder (fixed or portable). For a parapet ladder, the access level shall be the roof if the parapet is cut to permit passage through the parapet; if the parapet is continuous, the access level shall be the top of the parapet. Do not stand on the three top rungs of a straight, single or extension ladder. Do not move or shift a ladder while a person or equipment is on the ladder. Workers often use ladders to gain access to multiple levels and areas that are hard to reach. 11, 2014], Occupational Safety & Health Administration. Ladder safety begins with the selection of the proper ladder for the job and includes inspection, setup, proper climbing and standing, proper use, care, and storage. The rungs and steps of portable metal ladders shall be corrugated, knurled, dimpled, coated with skid-resistant material, or otherwise treated to minimize slipping. Because of the complexity and exceptions to some rules, it’s important you make thi… There are rules for installing and using them properly, as well as inspecting them. Ladders are used in many jobs for cleaning, painting, changing light bulbs, accessing storage areas, reaching platforms, and more. •Always keep your belt buckle between the ladder rails. Ladder sections shall be offset from adjacent sections, and landing platforms shall be provided at maximum intervals of 50 feet (15.2 m). Where the total length of a climb equals or exceeds 24 feet (7.3 m), fixed ladders shall be equipped with one of the following: Self-retracting lifelines, and rest platforms at intervals not to exceed 150 feet (45.7 m); or. Never use a damaged ladder… The area around the top and bottom of ladder must be kept clear. OSHA Subpart X-Stairways and Ladders specifies the rules for ladders. Do not use a self-supporting ladder (e.g., step ladder) as a single ladder or in a partially closed position. Injuries and fatalities associated with working on and around portable and fixed ladders are a major workplace safety problem. Click here to download the ladder safety program If the normal step-across distance exceeds 12 inches (30 cm), a landing platform shall be provided to reduce the distance to the specified limit. Settings. If playback doesn't begin shortly, try restarting your device. 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