Let’s take a minute to jump to a regulation near the bottom of the list, but just as important. The eighth most cited OSHA regulation of 2012 involved ladder violations.
Ladders can be invaluable pieces of equipment. They allow workers to gain access to difficult-to-reach-areas and can make performing a maintenance job easier. However, they also carry a certain amount of danger. Workers can fall and become injured, or ladders that aren’t regularly inspected could suddenly collapse.
OSHA regulation 29 CFR 1926.1053 clearly marks out the parameters of how to appropriately select the best ladder or step ladder in any given situation. There are rules as to how much of a load ladders can carry, and how to secure them to avoid dangerous situations.
Here are all the tools you need to maintain safe ladder protocols:
- Ladders – It’s crucial that you select the best ladder for your situation. There are many options available, so consider the material and the durability of the ladder as compared to the environment it will be used in to select the best ladder for you. Choose among aluminum platform ladders, steel rolling warehouse ladders, cross-over ladders, and fiberglass step ladders
- Step ladders or steps – Not all occasions require a ladder, often a small step ladder or step will suffice. However choosing the right one is crucial to safety.
- Inspection equipment- Once you’ve selected the perfect ladder or step ladder for your use, perform regular inspections and conduct maintenance as necessary. Use either inspection labels that adhere to the ladder’s surface or inspection tags that can easily be attached and removed to indicate status. These tools communicate important safety information, as well as keep track of maintenance work.
Ladders are an essential tool in nearly all workplaces. They’re versatility is unmatched, but be sure you protect yourself from falls or accidents, as well as maintain compliance, with proper safety precautions.
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