Text For Citation: 01 Item/Group: 001 Hazard: FALLING

Section 5(a)(1) of the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970: At the locations listed below, the employer did not furnish employment and a place of employment which were free from recognized hazards that were causing or likely to cause death or serious physical harm to employees in that employees were exposed to fall hazards. The employer failed to ensure that the fixed ladders attached to feed bins at each barn were inspected and repaired as necessary. The ladders were bent and had loose components. The ladders attached to feed bins located at the following barns: Top North, Top South, Cornhusker, 7-11, and Blue Ribbon. AMONG OTHER METHODS, ONE FEASIBLE AND ACCEPTABLE ABATEMENT METHOD TO CORRECT THIS HAZARD IS: (a) Develop and implement written procedures requiring that prompt corrective action is taken any time a damaged ladder is identified. (b) Develop and implement a disciplinary action program and procedures to ensure that employees report damage as it occurs and take action to ensure that the ladders are not abused/neglected. (c) Take precautions with regards to the fixed ladders to prevent an accident from occurring including but not limited to, ensuring all employees receive training on the proper methods for safely using ladders. This should also include training on the appropriate methods for inspecting the worksite for related hazards and then the development of procedures to report the issues. (d) Ensure that all ladders are promptly repaired when they are identified as damaged or defective. This includes any ladders identified during this inspection. Abatement certification is required for this violation. The abatement certification sheet is enclosed with the citations.