Question: The final rule at §1910.23(b)(11) requires that workers face the ladder when climbing up or down. Since the definition of ladder includes mobile ladder stands, does the final rule prohibit workers from climbing down a mobile ladder stand while facing away from it if the ladder stand has a slope of 50 degrees or less?

Answer:

OSHA will not consider it a violation of the standard if employees face away while descending mobile ladder stands and mobile ladder stand platforms if the slope of the steps is 50 degrees or less and the units comply with other requirements in 29 CFR 1910.23(b) and (e).