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The Safety Advantages of Stairs Stability and support. Stairs offer a stable and supportive platform, which is crucial in industrial settings. According to the Bu- reau of Labor Statistics, there were 22,710 ladder-related injuries in 2020 (Bureau of Labor Statistics3). The broader steps and handrails of stairs can significantly reduce the risk of such accidents. Ease of use. Stairs are inherently safer and more intuitive than ladders. OSHA data indicates that missteps on ladders are a common cause of workplace injuries, highlighting the importance of easier-to- navigate stairs. Reduced fatigue. Climbing stairs is less physically demanding than ladders. This reduced exertion is vital, as fatigue can lead to accidents. Stairs help mitigate these risks by providing a less strenuous alternative. Comparing Stairs and Ladders in Specific Scenarios High traffic areas. Stairs support con- tinuous flow, unlike ladders, which can become congested. OSHA statistics reveal that ladder congestion can lead to hazard- ous situations. Carrying loads. Carrying loads up and down ladders significantly increases the risk of falls. In 2020, 161 people suf- fered fatal injuries from ladder accidents (OHS Online4). Stairs offer a safer way to transport materials. Emergency situations. In emergen- cies, rapid and safe evacuation is essential. Stairs provide a quicker and safer route, which is vital given that ladder-related de- lays can have dire consequences. Long-Term Safety and Industry Trends The shift from ladders to stairs not only enhances immediate safety but also contributes to long-term health and productivity. Workers are less likely to experience fatigue, which can lead to increased focus and efficiency. The reduced risk of accidents means fewer workdays lost to injury, a significant factor in overall productivity and cost savings for businesses. The decision by the national manufacturer to switch to stairs is indicative of a broader industry trend toward prioritizing worker safety and efficiency. As more companies recognize the benefits of this approach, it is likely that we will see a continued shift from ladders and towards safer, more ergonomic solutions like stairs. This trend is not only about compliance with safety standards but also about creating a more sustainable and productive work environment. With the backing of OSHA statistics and ergonomic considerations, it’s evident that stairs offer a safer, more practical solu- tion for industrial rooftop access. As this trend gains traction, it’s shaping a future of enhanced safety and efficiency in the workplace. REFERENCES 1. tinyurl.com/ft8k3vw3 2. tinyurl.com/2f3fdxb2 3. tinyurl.com/5fajwhj3 4. tinyurl.com/5ynxsz65 Dan Huntington is General Manager for Kee Safety, and an experienced Fall Protection In- dustry Expert, formally trained in OSHA fall protection standards and risk assessment. MAXimizing Health & Safety Guaranteed. INDUSTRIAL VACUUM CLEANERS Portable • Continuous-Duty • Central Systems ATEX certified, compressed-air operated, for flammable liquid, combustible dust & reactive powder in Class I & II hazardous areas. Flammable Liquid Combustible Dust Food / Pharma 30-Gallon Reactive Metal Powder VAC-U-MAX.COM (800) VACUMAX Combustible Dust 55-Gallon Combustible Dust 15-Gallon www.ohsonline.com FEBRUARY/MARCH 2024 | Occupational Health & Safety 39