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Safe Ladder Usage on Job Sites with Mark Lamendola — EC&M On Air Highlights

⏱️ 6:46 🎤 Ellen Parson, Mark Lamendola
AUDIO EPISODE
Safe Ladder Usage on Job Sites with Mark Lamendola — EC&M On Air Highlights
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Chapters

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  • 0:00
    Introduction to Ladder Safety
    The host introduces Mark Lamendola's article on safe ladder usage, highlighting its relevance given ladder safety's frequent appearance on OSHA's violation list.
  • 1:08
    OSHA Regulations & Ladder Types
    The episode delves into OSHA regulations (29 CFR .1926.1050, subpart X) and lists five types of ladders covered by ANSI standards.
  • 2:08
    Ensuring Initial Compliance
    The first step to safe ladders is confirming compliance with ANSI standards at purchase or construction, verified through stickers, literature, or manufacturer sites.
  • 2:38
    Pre/Post-Use Inspections
    The second step is ensuring ongoing compliance through user inspections before and after each use, which should be part of training and procedures, along with suitability.
  • 3:24
    Fixed Ladders: Bolted vs. Welded
    The discussion moves to fixed ladders, detailing problems with loosening bolts (requiring locking device replacement) and weak welds, and proposing solutions for each.
  • 5:04
    Fixed Ladder Maintenance & User Checks
    It's advised against putting fixed ladders on a PM schedule; instead, users should perform simple pre/post-use inspections for defects and stability.

Speakers

E
Ellen Parson
Host
M
Mark Lamendola
electrical consultant for EC&M Magazine

Key Takeaways

Familiarize yourself with OSHA 29 CFR .1926.1050 (subpart X) and ANSI standards for all ladder types used on your job sites.

Always verify new ladders comply with relevant ANSI standards at the time of purchase, looking for stickers, literature, or manufacturer documentation.

Implement mandatory pre- and post-use inspection training for all ladder users, covering how to check for serviceability and suitability for the task.

When maintaining bolted fixed ladders, always replace single-use locking devices (e.g., split ring washers) rather than just re-tightening bolts.

For welded fixed ladders, ensure welders test their welds thoroughly and repair any failures to prevent instability and hazards.

Instead of complex PM schedules for fixed ladders, empower users to conduct quick, simple checks for stability and obvious defects before and after each use.

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