Text For Citation: 01 Item/Group: 002 Hazard: FALLING

Section 5(a)(1) of Public Law 91-596, the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970: 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 falling from or off the ladders: (a)On or about January 25, 2007 to February 8, 2007, at the worksite, two employees were observed using step ladders that were not open with the spreaders locked. (b)On or about January 25, 2007 to February 8, 2007, at the worksite, employees were observed using step ladders that had damaged side rails and steps. (c)On or about January 25, 2007 to February 8, 2007, at the worksite, employees were observed using the top cap and top step to access their work areas. (d)On or about January 25, 2007 to February 8, 2007, at the worksite, employees were exposed climbing on and off ladders from the side. Among others, one feasible and useful abatement method to correct these hazards is to: (1) Conduct periodic(daily) inspections of ladders as required by Section 9.4 of ANSI A14.5-2000; train employees on the proper selection and use of ladders; and enforce the correct use of ladders.