Do you know that OSHA has four specific standards related to ladder safety – 29 CFR 1910.24 Fixed Industrial Stairs, 29 CFR 1910.25 Portable Wood Ladders, 29 CFR 1910.26 Portable Metal Ladders, and 29 CFR 1910.27 Fixed Ladders? These standards are specific to general industry, and 29 CFR 1926 Subpart X applies to construction ladder safety.
When developing a ladder safety program, it is important to determine if the ladders are being utilized for construction work or maintenance so the appropriate standard can be followed. Once this is done, an inspection checklist can be developed to conduct an assessment of all of the ladders in use at your facility. It is important to not only inspect the ladders for compliance with the appropriate standard, but also observe the ladders in use to determine if personnel are using the ladders appropriately.
If you have not done so already, initiate a review of the ladders in use at your facility. You may be surprised by what you learn!