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]]>Key OSHA Standards for Work Platforms
According to OSHA: “A platform means a walking-working surface that is elevated above the surrounding area.”
Since January 2017 when OSHA completely rewrote the standard 1910 Subpart D: Walking Working Surfaces, it has been nearly impossible to get a straight answer on what fall protection needs to have to comply.
The update on OSHA standards for work platforms established the requirement for employers to protect workers from fall hazards along unprotected sides or edges that are at least 4 feet above a lower level. It also established requirements for the performance, inspection, use, and maintenance of personal fall protection systems.
Here is a list of important OSHA standards for work platforms that you may not be aware of
1. Any working surface 4 feet or higher must be protected with guardrails on all sides at least 42″ tall and have to withstand 200 pounds of force.
OSHA 1910.29(b)(1): The top edge height of top rails, or equivalent guardrail system members, is 107 cm, plus or minus 8 cm, above the walking-working surface. The top edge height may exceed 114 cm.
1910.29(b)(3): Guardrail systems are capable of withstanding, without failure, a force of at least 890 N applied in a downward or outward direction within 5 cm of the top edge, at any point along the top rail.
One important distinction of OSHA 1910 Subpart D is that a guardrail is what is on top of the platform, whereas a handrail is what is along the staircase. Handrails have a different height requirement than guardrails.
The guardrails must be on every open side of the platform. In instances where the platform is up against another vertical surface (such as the equipment being accessed), and that fully protects the opening, guardrails are not required on that side. In that case, it is still critical to ensure railing covers any gaps.
When you’re performing maintenance tasks, there is a good chance you will be setting tools, parts, and hardware on the floor beside you. In order to prevent a tools and parts falling off the platform and smacking a coworker on the head, 100 mm tall toe boards are required on all open sides of the platform (excluding openings). Guardrail systems should also be capable of withstanding 890 N of force applied in a downward or outward direction.
2. The platform’s height cannot exceed 4x its base width without additional stabilizing support.
OSHA 1910.23(e)(1)(vi): The maximum work-surface height of mobile ladder stands and platforms does not exceed four times the shortest base dimension, without additional support. For greater heights, one must use outriggers, counterweights, or comparable means that stabilize the Mobile Work Platforms and prevent overturning.
If you need to access something at a great height but have limited space, consider a base with extended caster beams that can slide underneath your equipment and maintain this 4:1 ratio. These outriggers will provide enough of a base to keep your platform stable.
If you’re working in an area where extended caster beams at the base of the system are prohibited due to ground-level interference, counter-balance weights may be used to provide the stability required.
3. Stairs should have uniform step interval of no more than 250 mm, a tread depth of at least 240 mm, and a width of at least 560mm.
OSHA 1910.23(e)(2)(1): Mobile ladder stands, and platforms have a step width of at least 16 inches (41 cm). Steps are uniformly spaced and arranged, with a rise of not more than 10 inches (25 cm) and a depth of not less than 7 inches (18 cm). The slope of the step stringer to which the steps are attached must not be more than 60 degrees, measured from the horizontal;
4. Self-closing safety gates are always required around openings (such as ladder holes), unless the opening is offset and nobody can fall directly through the hole.
OSHA 1910.29(b)(13): When guardrail systems are used around holes that serve as points of access (such as ladder ways), the guardrail system opening (b)(13)(i) has a self-closing gate that slides or swings away from the hole, and is equipped with a top rail and mid-rail or equivalent intermediate member, or (b)(13)(ii) is offset to prevent an employee from walking or falling into the hole. Self-closing safety gates are critical for OSHA compliance; you have to ensure that your technicians cannot back through a hole in the guardrail or push the safety gate open without intending to. This is most commonly encountered at the top of ladders. Safety gates are often spring loaded and open inward then close behind you when you enter the platform. For extra safety precaution, consider using an interlock mechanism to ensure the safety gate cannot be opened when it’s unsafe.
Staircases only require a safety gate when they are not attached to a platform In this instance, you must have 22” of clearance on the platform to allow the user to open the safety gate inward and be able to close it behind them.
1910.25(b)(5)(ii): When a door or a gate opens directly on a stairway, a platform is provided, and the swing of the door or gate does not reduce the platform’s effective usable depth to less than 56 cm for platforms installed on or after January 17, 2017.
While staircases that are connected to a larger platform do not require a safety gate, one may be added to your system if desired.
5. The platform must be capable of supporting at least four times its rated capacity.
OSHA 1910.23(e)(1)(iii): Mobile ladder stands and platforms are capable of supporting at least four times their maximum intended load.
Load rating requirements vary depending on the need and how many people/how much equipment will be on top of the system at a time. Regardless of it, the system will be designed to withstand 4x the rated load before failure. This is proven out through engineering analyses or physical load testing during the design and manufacturing process.
The number of safety standards that apply to work stands can be overwhelming. If you’re unsure whether your platform is in compliance, ask the experts.
Whether you’re looking for crossover platforms to safely traverse rooftop obstacles or portable work platforms and other Mobile Aluminum work platforms, our Endu Step industrial work platforms can be configured for your unique project needs. Chemey’s work platforms and step stools made to industry standards, are easy to use and have safety features. These safety features include guardrails, handrails, midrails, toeboards, and safety gates.
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]]>With falls being one of the most common causes of workplace injuries and deaths, workers who work at heights must understand the basics of fall protection. Being proactive by implementing compliant methods of fall protection and fall prevention can save lives and prevent injuries. Consequently, it is important to be aware of basic fall protection rules and facts. Here are some basic fall protection facts to consider.
(1) Identify Fall Hazards
Falls occur due to various reasons including losing balance, tripping, losing a grip on support, stepping backward, strong winds or dangerous weather, stepping into a hole, support moving or breaking, and irregular or damaged work surfaces. Employers can be proactive in reducing workplace injuries and deaths by identifying and eliminating fall hazards and installing fall protection systems. Further, employers can educate workers to follow safe practices, properly use equipment, and be proactive and aware of fall hazards.
(2) Utilize Fall Protection Systems
Three categories of fall protection systems include fall prevention, fall restraint, and Fall arrest.
Fall Prevention
A fall prevention system aims to prevent falls from occurring by using guardrails and barriers. Consider guardrail systems such as non-penetrating guardrail systems, permanent rail systems, and customized guardrail solutions. Barrier considerations include industrial safety gates, skylights, and warning lines.
Fall Restraint
A fall restraint system stops workers from falling by using a tether that restrains a worker’s range of motion. The worker is not allowed to move far enough to reach a leading edge.
Fall Arrest
A general fall arrest system is a net or cushion system beneath a working area. A personal fall arrest system is composed of an anchorage connector, body wear, and connecting device. Such a system allows a worker to fall a short distance before stopping their fall.
(3) Comply with OSHA Guidelines
OSHA provides information about how to protect workers from falls, such as using guardrails, safety gates, personal fall protection systems,mobile work platforms, Aluminum mobile scaffolds, adopting safe work practices, and providing appropriate training. In some situations, protection is provided by “limiting the number of workers exposed” to falls by using warning lines, designated areas, and control zones.
Further, OSHA guidelines include the following fall safety practices:
- Protection is required for workers in construction sites when working above six feet above a lower level and for workers in the general industry when working above four feet above a lower level. Fall protection systems are required to prevent workers from falling into or onto hazardous machines or other equipment regardless of the fall distance.
- Providing workplace conditions free from known dangers and establishing fall protection systems before work begins.
- Providing personal protective equipment to workers at no cost to them.
- Training workers about workplace hazards in a language that they can understand.
- As you prepare for or review your fall protection program, keep these basic fall protection regulations in mind.
While the employer is responsible for ensuring a safe work environment, every worker should make it a priority to become knowledgeable about general fall protection rules.
Effective fall protection has two facets: human and equipment. Both make important contributions to worker safety.
Fall Protection Equipment
Every job site where workers are at heights exceeding six feet should have fall protection equipment in place to prevent falls of any kind. Guardrails must be 42” above walking level, while safety gates must be installed on all openings of approach ued for entry or exit of any working surface,
Personal fall arrest systems are used to stop a worker who is falling from a working level. Some of the most important rules to note include:
- Worker must not free fall more than six feet and must not contact any lower level
- The system must bring worker to a complete stop
- The system must be inspected before every use for wear, damage, or deterioration
- Body belts (safety belts) are prohibited for use as part of a fall arrest system
Every worker should have a solid understanding of how personal fall protection devices work. Devices like safety harnesses, lanyards, and lifelines can only work if they are used correctly.
Human Role in Fall Protection
In terms of the human aspect, workers must be vigilant when working at heights. Workers must be aware of their surroundings and immediately bring any concerns to the attention of a site supervisor. Potential hazards requiring fall protection include:
- Hoist areas
- Unguarded holes
- Ramps, runways, or walkways
- Excavations
- Dangerous equipment
- Wall openings
Workers who communicate effectively about their work environment and collaborate to mitigate hazards will lower their risk for falls and height-related incidents.
Employer and Employee Responsibilities for Fall Safety
Employers must provide training to all employees who work at heights. Employees must take responsibility for participating fully in this training and be sure to ask questions to clarify rules and safety guidelines.
Fall protection is a key part of workplace safety, and it’s a team effort. Don’t make the mistake of placing the responsibility solely on your employer—take your safety into your own hands by becoming knowledgeable about OSHA’s fall protection standards, understanding how to safely use fall protection devices, and maintaining awareness of your surroundings at all times.
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