Toolbox: Ladder Extends 3 Feet Above Landings 1926.1053(b)(1) |
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OSHA
Rule
When using portable ladders to access an upper landing
surface, the ladder side rails must extend at least 3 feet (.9 m) above
the landing surface where the ladder is being used; or when such an
extension is not possible because of the ladders length, the ladder
must be secured at its top to a rigid support that will not deflect, and
a grasping devicesuch as a grabrailmust be provided to assist
employees in mounting and dismounting the ladder. The extension must never
be such that ladder deflection under a load would, by itself, cause the
ladder to slip off its support.
Intent
The rule protects employees during two critical phases
of ladder climbing:
- When employees
are on the ladder and their movement may affect the ladder and its support
points, making it slip or fall; and
- When the employee
is either getting on or off the ladder. If nothing is available to grab
and provide support, the employee will be in a bent-over position and
his or her center of gravity may be outside the vertical line of normal
body position, making the employee vulnerable
to a fall.
The rule specifies:
Side rails must extend 3 feet above the landing. Or when this is not possible,
secure side rails at the top to a rigid supporte.g., by tying with
rope or boxing in with lumberand provide a grab device. The grasping
device can be made of metal or
lumber and can be part of the structure, providing its location does not
create a hazard in itself and it can be easily grasped. In addition, secure
ladders to prevent them from deflecting and slipping while in use.
Hazards
- Slip and
fall from elevation.
- Probable injuries
range from death to broken bones and sprains/strains.
(Among Other) Suggested
Abatements
- Abatement is
obvious. Construct/ use ladders according to specification requirements.
- Instruct employees
and supervisors to inspect ladders during each shift in their work area.
Selected Case Histories
An employee climbing a 10-foot ladder to access a landing 9 feet above
the adjacent floor fell when the ladder slid down. He sustained fatal
injuries. Although the ladder had slip-resistant feet, it was not secured,
and the railings did not extend 3 feet above the landing.
Comments
- This standard
covers only portable ladders. A similar requirement for fixed ladders
is outlined in Title 29 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) 1926.1053(a)
(24).
- This is a specification
standard that is easily identified and substantiated as a violationas
evidenced by its high ranking on the 100 Most Cited Physical List. Therefore,
the contractor must continually audit the site to ensure compliance
with this rule.
Additional Documents
to Aid in Compliance
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The portable ladder extends 3 feet above the opening
(landing) of the confined space. Note: The guarding of the floor hole
except at the entrance for the ladder is acceptable. |
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