Ladder Safety is More Than Track Systems and Lifelines
When it comes to ladder safety, there is more to consider than the recent OSHA fall protection changes. Where your commercial ladders are placed and how they are structured both play a vital role in protecting your employees on the job. Complying with official regulations is the best way to ensure there as few accidents as possible. As your local industrial ladder supplier and with safety as our number one priority, Design Components is here to remind you how to place your fixed industrial ladders for optimum employee protection.
Beware of Electrical Hazards.
To reduce the risk of electrocution, never place ladders near power lines or open electrical elements. Industrial ladder suppliers recommend that all ladders should be kept at least 10 feet away from all power lines. Never handle a metal outdoor ladder during severe weather, like lightning storms.
Avoid Steep Slopes.
OSHA regulations dictate that fixed ladders should be placed with a slope no greater than 90 degrees from the ground, as measured to the back side of the ladder. Remember that, regardless of slope, OSHA now requires all ladders exceeding 24 feet to be equipped with a personal fall arrest system (PFAS).
Space Out Your Ladders.
Each ladder on your building should be given enough space to safely climb.
There should be:
- At least 30 inches of clearance between the ladder and any obstruction opposite of it
- At least 7 inches between the ladder and any obstruction behind it
- Between 10 and 14 inches of uniform space between each rung
- At least 15 inches to the nearest permanent object from the centerline of the ladder
Make Sure Your Ladders Are OSHA-Compliant With Design Components
Design Components, Inc., offer a wide variety of ladder solutions to meet the needs of your unique building. Single climb, multi-climb and parapet wall conditions can be accommodated with or without a safety cage depending on your total climb height. Each of our OSHA-compliant ladders can also be hot-dipped, Galvanized, or powder-coated in a variety of standard colors. Make the safest choice for your company and use Design Components.
Contact us today at 800-868-9910 to get a free quote and get started. Stay up-to-date by connecting with Design Components on Facebook, LinkedIn and Instagram.