Ladder-related incidents and OSHA citations related to ladder safety are discussed in this article. Ladder safety tips include choosing the right ladder, inspecting it, securing it, climbing it safely, and using it safely. As a whole, the article emphasizes the need to promote ladder safety and prevent ladder-related incidents.
This article discusses the importance of ladder safety, including statistics on ladder-related incidents, citations issued by OSHA, and tips for using ladders safely. Falls from ladders are among the leading causes of workplace injuries and fatalities, with approximately 20,000 workers injured and over 100 killed annually. OSHA has issued many citations related to ladder safety in the past ten years. The most frequently cited violations include improper ladder use, ladder defects, and failure to provide training on ladder safety. It is essential to follow ladder safety guidelines, such as choosing the right ladder for the job, inspecting the ladder, setting it up properly, securing it, climbing it safely, and using it safely.
Ladders are one of the most common equipments used in many industries, from construction and maintenance to painting and cleaning. While ladders are helpful tools, they can also be dangerous if not used properly. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), approximately 20,000 workers are injured, and over 100 are killed yearly due to ladder-related incidents. This article will discuss ladder safety, including statistics on ladder-related incidents, citations issued by OSHA, and tips for using ladders safely.
Statistics:
The BLS reports that falls from ladders are one of the leading causes of workplace injuries and fatalities. In 2019, there were 880 fatal falls at work, and 48 of those were due to falls from ladders. Over half of fatal falls from ladders occur at 20 feet or less. In addition to fatalities, there were over 24,000 non-fatal ladder-related injuries in 2019.
OSHA Citations:
OSHA has issued many citations related to ladder safety in the past ten years. In 2019, OSHA issued 2,294 citations related to ladder safety, with the most frequently cited violations including improper ladder use, ladder defects, and failure to provide training on ladder safety. Other common violations include not securing the ladder, using the wrong type of ladder for the job, and placing the ladder on an unstable surface.
Types of Ladders:
There are several ladders, each with specific uses and safety considerations. Extension ladders are used for reaching high places, such as the roof of a building. Step ladders are self-supporting and are commonly used for tasks such as painting or changing light bulbs. A straight or single ladder is a non-self-supporting ladder and must be placed at an appropriate angle to prevent slipping. Other ladders include platform ladders, tripod ladders, and rolling ladders.
Ladder Safety Tips:
Ladder safety guidelines are essential for preventing ladder-related incidents. Here are some tips for using ladders safely:
- Choose the right ladder for the job: The ladder must be appropriate for the task and the working conditions.
- Inspect the ladder: Check the ladder for defects such as cracks, splits, or loose hardware. If the ladder is damaged, do not use it.
- Set up the ladder properly: The ladder should be placed on a stable and level surface, with the base of the ladder one foot away from the wall for every four feet of height.
- Secure the ladder: The ladder should be secured at the top and bottom to prevent it from slipping or sliding.
- Climb the ladder safely: Face the ladder when climbing up or down and maintain three points of contact with the ladder at all times (two feet and one hand or two hands and one foot).
- Use the ladder safely: Do not use it in a way it was not intended for, such as standing on the top rung or leaning the ladder against a wall.
Conclusion:
Ladder safety is essential for preventing workplace injuries and fatalities. By choosing the right ladder for the job, inspecting it, setting it up properly, securing it, climbing it safely, and using it safely, workers can significantly reduce the risk of ladder-related incidents. Employers can also promote ladder safety by providing training and ensuring that ladders are regularly inspected and maintained. With proper precautions, ladders can be safe and effective tools for many industries.
References:
Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2021). Fatal Occupational Injuries by Event or Exposure, All United States, 2011–2020. Retrieved from https://www.bls.gov/charts/census-of-fatal-occupational-injuries/fatal-occupational-injuries-by-event-or-exposure.htm
Occupational Safety and Health Administration. (n.d.). Ladder Safety. Retrieved from https://www.osha.gov/ladders/
Occupational Safety and Health Administration. (2022). Top 10 Most Frequently Cited Standards. Retrieved from https://www.osha.gov/data/commonstats
Occupational Safety and Health Administration. (2022). OSHA Inspection Data by NAICS Code. Retrieved from https://www.osha.gov/data/inspection-stats/naics-codes
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2021). Falls Among Construction Workers. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/topics/falls/default.html
