Figure 1: Illustration of ladders used in vessels |
Ladders are used in shipbuilding and ship repair to
allow workers to gain access to multiple levels, and in some cases to work from.
Hazards associated with the use of ladders include falls from the ladder caused
by structural failure, poor placement, and inappropriate work practices.
Fiberglass, aluminum, and ship's ladders, which are also used in the shipyard
and their maintenance requirements are addressed under the general
requirements. [1915.72(a)]
Note: There are specific requirements for construction of portable
wooden ladders that are less than 30 feet and 30-60 feet. [1915.72(b) and
(c)]
Additional
requirements where ladders are used:
Note: Confined space entry is one of the leading
hazards associated with barge cleaning. Review the
Ship Repair: Confined/Enclosed Spaces and Other Dangerous Atmospheres
chapter for information on how to protect workers from this hazard.
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General Requirements |
The safe construction and use of ladders can protect workers who are
required to access multiple levels and when working from
the ladder. Training workers on safe ladder use and how to assess the condition of
the ladder before use is an important aspect of a safety and health program.
Potential Hazards:
- Structural failure of the ladder or its components, causing the worker
to fall.
- Inappropriate work practices (such as over-extending, climbing with
equipment in hand, not facing ladder when climbing down), causing the worker to fall.
- Electrical shock or electrocution when using metal ladders.
- Inappropriate ladder placement (such as ladder angle), causing the worker to fall.
- Unsecured ladder causing the ladder and worker to fall.
Requirements and Example Solutions:
- Defective ladders must not be used and must be removed immediately.
[1915.72(a)(1)]
- When splicing ladders, special precautions are required. [1915.72(a)(2)]
- Portable ladders used for access must be secured and extend at least
36 inches above the upper landing. [1915.72(a)(3)]
- Manufactured portable metal or wood ladders must be in accordance with
ANSI standards. [1915.72(a)(4) and
(a)(6)]
- Portable metal ladders must not be used near electrical shock
hazards (such as conductors, electric arc welding). [1915.72(a)(5)]
Additional Requirements:
- Hand lines or tool bags must be used to keep workers hands free when
using ladders. [1915.131(a)]
- Only one worker is allowed on a ladder unless the ladder is designed for
additional workers. [1910.25(d)(2)(ii)]
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Portable straight ladders must have a 4-to-1 ratio.
Ladders must not be used in a horizontal position as platforms,
runways, or scaffolds. [1910.25(d)(2)(i)]
-
Employees visually restricted by blasting hoods,
welding helmets, and burning goggles must work from scaffolds, not
from ladders, except for the initial and final welding or burning
operation. [1915.77(c)]
-
Portable ladders must be used when the ship's
ladders in the cargo holds are defective. [1915.76(a)(3)]
Additional
requirements where ladders are used:
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Figure 2: Properly constructed, job made, portable wood ladder less than 30 feet in length.
Figure 3: Improper practice: Improper placement angle of ladder; less than 4 to 1 ratio (height of ladder to horizontal distance out at base of ladder).
Figure 4: Improper practice: Working from unsecured ladder.
Figure 5: Improper practice: Improper use
of step ladder for access.
Figure 6: Properly secured portable ladder extending 36 inches above landing.
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Figure 7: Step ladder manufactured in accordance with ANSI standards, but shown in improper use position. |
Figure 8: Hand line near portable wood ladder for raising and lowering tools, etc. to allow hands free for climbing. |
Figure
9: Portable wood ladder at proper angle (4 to 1 ratio) but not extending the required 3 feet above the landing. |
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