How to Make Sure Your Ladders Meet OSHA Standards
Ladders are useful on any job site. You must meet all applicable OSHA standards, so how can you go about doing this?
Ladders are useful on any job site. After all, it can be difficult for the average human to climb walls or jump incredible distances by themselves. But that’s why we have all of these marvelous inventions such as the ladder, the catwalk, the scaffold, and other types of construction and boom lifts. You must meet all applicable OSHA standards, so how can you go about doing this?
Ladder Safety Systems
Without ladder safety systems, going up into an elevated position would be even riskier than they already are. No matter what industry you are in, from the construction of new buildings to the demolition of old ones, you will need ladders and their associated safety systems. Don’t neglect them or leave them out of your list of on-the-job assets. These systems protect climbers from falling off the ladder as they ascend. It is also meant to save them from other fall hazards, such as slipping when they reach the top of the ladder and are trying to move onto a nearby platform to continue their work. If you don’t have these safety measures in place, then you are violating OSHA guidelines.
Climbing the Ladder
Climbing up ladders can be as difficult as getting back down. If any of your workers have a fear of heights, you must accommodate them. Vertical lifelines are excellent ways to protect all climbers, as are body harnesses and short lanyards. Personal arrest systems (PAS) can allow free-form movement while still providing the necessary fall protection.
Accessing the Platform
As noted above, switching from ladders to platforms can be dangerous. These surfaces are where employees will be walking and working. A self-closing safety gate is essential. After that, unclipping from a lifeline or PAS will be much safer.
Covering the Edges
Finally, let’s have a look at how to cover the edges of the platforms or other similar walkways. Guardrails need to be installed wherever there is a potential fall hazard. Although this may increase costs, it is a valuable way to ensure that you are complying with all regulations set by OSHA. Even so, it is still worth it to train your employees on how to be more careful when climbing ladders.
Prioritize Employee Safety with G&M Services
G&M Services is proud of our employees and the dedication they have for safety in the workplace. We reward our employees for displaying positive safety practices. We incorporate weekly and monthly discussions and meetings to ensure that all involved are aware of how to handle equipment and potential situations that could occur during a project.
G&M Services offers services in the way of concrete drilling and sawing, concrete scanning, and Firestop. To get started with us, call today at 410-787-8828 or visit our contact page. Follow the official company page today on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.
