Page 15 - Occupational Health & Safety, November/December 2019

Step Ladders. A step ladder is a self-supporting, portable lad- der that has a fixed height, flat steps, and a hinged back. It is con- structed of wood, metal or fiberglass. Each type has advantages and disadvantages.
Wooden ladders do not conduct electricity, but they are heavier than the other portable ladders. In addition, wooden ladders tend to decay or rot when wet and are easily damaged. Metal ladders, es- pecially those constructed of aluminum, are lighter to carry; how- ever, metal ladders are conductors of electricity and therefore pose a safety risk if they come into contact with a source of electricity. Fi- berglass step ladders are lightweight and do not conduct electricity. They can also be damaged if not properly stored and maintained.
Extension Ladders. An extension ladder is a non-self-support- ing portable ladder that is adjustable in length. Extension ladders are typically used in exterior environments to reach roofs or in- terior areas to reach platforms where stepladders cannot be used. OSHA requires that extension ladders extend three feet beyond the landing point of the top of the extension ladder. In addition, the base of the ladder should be 1/4th of the distance of the height from the wall. For example, if the height of the wall is 12 feet, then the base of the ladder should be three feet from the base of the wall.
Fixed Ladders. A fixed ladder is one with rails or individual rungs that are permanently attached to a structure, building or equipment. Fixed ladders include individual-rung ladders but do not include ship stairs, step bolts, or manhole steps. Fixed ladders
must extend 42 inches above the top of the access level or landing platform. A fixed ladder that is 20 feet or greater in length from the next level must be guarded by a cage. If required, the cage must begin at seven feet.
In summary, falls represent a significant threat to the health and safety of employees both at work and in the home. Simple precautions, including training, pre-use inspections, frequent audits and awareness of working conditions, can help prevent injuries and fatalities. It never hurts to remind employees of the requirements in the walking and working standards, fall protec- tion and prevention.
W. David Yates, Ph.D., CSP, is a safety manager for Carmeuse North America and a faculty member of Columbia Southern University in Orange Beach, Alabama. Dr. Yates is the author of “Safety Profes- sional’s Reference & Study Guide” and has been training and educat- ing safety professionals for more than 25 years.
REFERENCES
1. https://www.osha.gov/oshstats/commonstats.html
2. https://www.ccohs.ca/oshanswers/safety_haz/falls.html
3. https://www.osha.gov/laws-regs/regulations/standardnumber/ 1926/1926.56
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ONE OF THE BUSIEST PLACES IN THE PLANT DESERVES THE HIGHEST DEGREE OF FALL PROTECTION
Circle 18 on card.