Stepping Up Ladder Safety Standards

Introduction

Manufacturing makes the world go round, so safety is typically the number one priority for manufacturing facilities like yours. Ladders are a big part of keeping production safe and on track. Ladders are used to check and maintain equipment, which helps keep the quality of your products secure. Yet, 20 percent of fatal and work loss injuries can be attributed to falls from ladders. The Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA) recently focused on ladders in the workplace and enacted some new regulations. As a company, are you prepared to stay up-to-date on those regulations? 

How have OSHA's fall protection regulations changed?

Previously, under OSHA standards, cages were required on ladders where the climbs were over 20 feet, but recent changes have been made to the fall protection standards. In OSHA’s new regulations, cages and wells are being phased out, and all fixed ladders over 24 feet require a Personal Fall Arrest System (PFAS) or Ladder Safety System. A PFAS will follow the same regulations set in previous safety standards. These systems will require an anchor, harness, and connection device. Ladder Safety Systems comprises a carrier, safety sleeve, lanyard, connectors, and body harness. The new standards are designed to increase safety and minimize the risk of injury, as OSHA suggested ladder cages did not offer adequate protection. 

How can my facility comply with the new ladder regulations?

Existing ladders with cages have been grandfathered in to allow for a transition period. Facility owners should begin planning to replace cages and wells with ladder safety systems or personal arrest systems before the November 18, 2036 deadline. It's hard to track all the new regulations' nuances, but we can help.

What can Paul Mueller Company do for you?

At Paul Mueller Company, we strive to ensure efficiency, quality, and safety throughout all of your processes. We have updated our ladder designs to comply with the new OSHA regulations.