The workplace you create at your facility is more than a place where your employees come together to do their job. It is crucial that it is a place where a culture of safety is a top priority for workers and visitors alike. When a strong commitment to your team’s health and wellbeing is prioritized, the benefits for your business and the people you rely on to keep it successful are many. A safe, productive workplace is a place where everyone can thrive!
Rolling stairs and ladders can be effective tools to help workers complete tasks such as stacking, sorting, and packaging items at varying heights in warehouses, distribution centers, and manufacturing facilities. Rolling ladders and work platforms can increase productivity because they are easy to move and set up in a variety of locations as needed. Unlike ordinary step ladders, which require set up time and carrying effort, rolling ladders and stairs are lightweight and safe to move and adjust to height with minimal effort.
Rolling ladders are much more reliable and secure when compared to step ladders, which can be unstable and shaky. With a wide base that provides stability and handrails that workers can use for balance, rolling stairs and ladders provide fewer opportunities for user error, which can greatly reduce accidents while working at heights.
Industries that require work at raised heights including aviation repair, railcar maintenance, and steel production can benefit greatly from the use of rolling ladders, stairs, and mobile platforms. Work places such as office spaces, health facilities, education institutions, and book stores frequently store inventory on multilevel storage areas. Rolling ladders can be the most efficient way for workers to access products safely.
While platform ladders can be used improperly or haphazardly, a rolling work platform is a convenient way for workers to reduce risks and perform tasks safely. Knowing where you will use a rolling ladder before acquiring one is crucial, and will guarantee the equipment will fit the job. A properly sized rolling ladder will safely bring employees within range of the tasks while also preventing injuries from fall accidents.
There are three primary types of rolling ladders, categorized according to their weight capacity and purpose. The light-duty rolling ladder is the most popular type, and typically has a weight capacity between 200 and 375 pounds. These ladders are perfect for occasional use in retail settings, stockrooms, or offices. For extra protection, the cantilever type has a counterbalanced U-shaped bracket. Most often used in aircraft maintenance, manufacturing, storage facilities, and industrial equipment industries. The self-leveling rolling ladder has adjustable heights — perfect for a workplace that frequently deals with shelves of variable height levels.
Choosing the appropriate rolling ladder for your workplace will be based on several factors. These include the required height and weight capacities and the type of terrain or surface the rolling ladder will be used on. Before using a ladder of any type, safety managers should examine the equipment to safeguard employees from physical harm and lessen the probability of damage to equipment and machinery.
What are the OSHA Requirements for Rolling Ladders and Mobile Work Platforms?
Summarized OSHA Requirements for Rolling Ladder Stands and Work Platforms |
General Requirements [OSHA Code 1910.23(e)] |
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Rolling Ladder Stand Design Requirements [OSHA Code 1910.23(e)(2)] |
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Rolling Work Platform Design Requirements [OSHA Code 1910.23(e)(3)] |
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Before climbing a mobile ladder, it should be inspected for rust, fissures, or damage that might compromise its mechanical performance. All nuts and screws should be securely fastened, the wheels balanced, and a thorough examination of the latching function should be completed to identify possible malfunctions.
The proper placement of a ladder before usage is a key precautionary measure. Rolling ladders must be positioned on flat ground to avoid slips and rolls while in use. Because rolling ladders are often made of metal, users must be aware of any surrounding sources of electricity and able to react promptly when an accident happens.
To stay safe while using a ladder, the user must maintain three points of contact with the ladder at all times. Workers must keep two hands and one foot or two feet and one hand on the ladder. Additionally, users should always face the ladder while climbing. Keeping workers informed is essential and simple reminders and a checklist should be attached to ladders to ensure safety.
A safe workplace is ultimately a productive workplace. Workers are more likely to be injured if their work environment is not safe, but the bottom line of your business is also compromised when workers are injured and out of commission. An investment in safety equipment and the creation of a culture of safety in the workplace are the keys to ensuring the success of your business. Implementing safety training with rolling work platforms into your industrial facility can help improve safety and productivity. Make sure your company abides by all OSHA requirements when workers use these rolling ladders so that everyone stays safe on the job while avoiding expensive violation fines!
Still have questions about the benefits of Rolling Ladders and Mobile Work Platforms for your facility? We’re here to help.
