Throughout 2014, ISHN will report in each issue on one of the 12 most frequently cited OSHA standards, for fiscal year 2013, ending September 30, 2013.
OSHA’s standard on ladder safety – 1926.1053 – was one of the top ten most frequently cited standards violations in fiscal year 2013 (from Oct 1, 2012 to Sept. 30, 2013). OSHA’s ladder standard is a construction industry standard, though manufacturing facilities, wholesale establishments and utilities, among other industries, have been cited for violations. The standard covers requirements for self-supporting portable ladders, fixed ladders, step stool ladders, ladder rungs, cleats, steps, wood ladders, metal ladders, and safety devices for when the length of a climb is more than 24 feet. The many detailed specifications of OSHA’s ladder standard lead to frequent employer violations.
Ladder enforcement totals for all industries: citations (3,328), inspections (2,634), penalties ($4,382,427).