Workers have been seriously injured when falling from platforms or ladders. An accident potential exists when the landing area of a ladder is near the entrance to the top landings of stairways. Factors creating this potential include individuals being required to "back" down the ladder and unable to see the stairway opening.
The natural
act of stepping backwards upon reaching the platform can result in a fall
down the stairs. These types of accidents can be prevented by not locating
ladder landing areas across from top landings of stairways or, by
installing a self closing gate or guard across the opening at the top of
the stairs. The gates must remain closed at all times. A single careless
act of leaving the gate open could negate the good plans of prevention. A
self closing device on the gate and a sign to alert workers to keep the
gate closed should help to ensure the protection is always present.
Reissued:
04/30/2002
Tag #
AP2002-S052
MSHA extends a thank you and a tip of the hardhat to Gary Hutton of Martinez, GA, a winner of a limited edition sticker and patch.
If you have a tip you would like to pass on, you can e-mail it to zzMSHA-MinersTips@dol.gov. If your Accident Buster tip is selected, you will receive credit in this space.
