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Back to Basics is a weekly feature that highlights important but possibly overlooked information that any EHS professional should know. This week, we examine ladder safety and OSHA’s standards for using ladders in the workplace. Ladders are an integral piece of equipment in many industries and workplaces, but they also are a major hazard if […]
In my safety classes, I often hear questions like “How should we inspect our ladders?” and “Who should do it?” According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), ladders must be inspected by a “competent person for visible defects on a periodic basis and after any occurrence that could affect their safe use (1926.1053).” […]
I really thought we would have flying cars by now. Growing up watching cartoons like the Jetson’s or movies like Back to the Future, we were led to believe that everyone would be flying around with jetpacks and hoverboards. Unfortunately, no one has invented anti-gravity boots yet, so we still need tools like ladders to […]
November 19, 2018, is a key date for employers with existing outdoor fixed ladders that extend more than 24 feet (ft) above a lower level. Ladders that were erected before that date must be equipped with at least one type of device that protects workers from falling. Ladders erected after November 19, 2018, must meet […]
The American Ladder Institute (ALI) has designated March as National Ladder Safety Month, an opportunity to raise awareness and provide resources to decrease the number of ladder-related incidents. Kat Seiffert, marketing manager of the Chicago-based association, says the observance is in its second year and has garnered growing support from businesses and sponsors.
March is National Ladder Safety Month, an opportunity to review your policies, training, and equipment. Whether you’re a small service business with a couple of step stools around for lightbulb changes or a large contractor that uses complex climbing equipment, you’ll want to read on for the latest on ladders.
Recently, a subscriber asked us the following question: Is there a requirement for using rungs versus rails when climbing on fixed vertical ladders or portable step/extension ladders?