Did you know that trips and falls are the number one cause of workplace accidents in the U.S.? According to the National Safety Council, they are also among the leading causes of compensation claims from workers. As 2021 is approaching, it is important that you are updated on the OSHA 2021 Fall Protection Standards to best prevent accidents from happening at your commercial building. As one of the top OSHA fall protection ladders manufacturers in GA, we would like to highlight a few OSHA Fall Protection Standards that you need to pay attention to in 2021.
OSHA Fall Protection Standards for 2021
OSHA’s final rule on Walking-Working Surfaces and Personal Fall Protection Systems was created to better protect workers from hazards by frequently updating standards as well as adding training and equipment requirements. As for 2021, lots of standards remain the same, but there are a few things to pay attention to.
Fall Protection in Specific Situations
OSHA has set fall protection requirements for some particular situations, such as repair pits, runways, scaffolds, wall openings, etc. For example, according to section 1926.451(a)(1), every scaffold and scaffold component must be able to support its own weight and at least four times the maximum intended load applied or transmitted to it. Depends on the tools and your specific situation, make sure to check for the OSHA requirements that are applicable to you.
Rope Descent Systems (RDS)
This is applicable to cleaning and maintaining your commercial building. The requirements for RDS were first established in a 1991 Memorandum to Regional Administrators and have been regularly updated ever since. An RDS consist of a roof anchorage, support rope, descent device, carabiners or shackles, and a chair or a seat board. Requirements for RDS may vary from state to state. For instance, Minnesota and Washington limit the use of RDS to 300 feet above grade. Make sure to check your state’s regulations and standards on RDSs before putting one into operation.
Ladder Safety Requirements
Did you know that falls from ladders account for 20 percent of all fatal and lost work-day injuries in the general industry? That is why OSHA has always been rigorous when it comes to standards for ladders and stairways. Rules vary depending on the type of ladder that you use as the requirements for fixed ladders may not be the same for portable ones. For example, while fixed ladders must be capable of supporting their maximum intended load, mobile ladder stands and platforms must be able to support four times their maximum intended load. Also, ladders from reputable manufacturers make a world of difference to the safety and wellbeing of your workers, so be sure to do thorough research before purchasing a ladder for your commercial building. For more information, click here.
Training Requirements
In addition to providing your workers with proper equipment that adheres to OSHA standards and requirements, it is also important that they are properly trained for the job. There are many resources on the OSHA website that you can take advantage of so that your workers will have access to useful knowledge that can keep them safe while on the job.
You can check out more information on OSHA 2021 Protection Standards, click here.
Need OSHA Fall Protection for Your Commercial Building? We Got You!
Want to learn more about which fall protection products would be the best fit for your business? Our experienced team is ready to help guide you through this process. With 40 years of experience as a metal building accessories supplier, whether it’s ladders or a rooftop walkway system, we have what it takes to create a fall-free working environment and enhance the overall safety of your commercial building.
To speak with an expert ready to help you, give us a call today at (800) 868-9910 or by requesting a quote on our website. Learn more by connecting with us on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.
