Stepping Up Fall Protection for Fixed Ladder Systems

In late 2016, the U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) released final rules updating OSHA 29 CFR 1910.23 (Ladders), 29 CFR 1910.28 (Fall Protection), and 29 CFR 1910.29 (Walking-Working Surfaces).  ). For fixed ladders that involve an elevation of 24 feet or more, the new rules regarding fall protection are:

• Existing ladders installed before 11/19/18, must be equipped with a personal fall arrest system, ladder safety system, cage, or well.  1910.28(b)(9)(i)(A)
• New ladders installed on or after 11/19/18 must be equipped with a personal fall arrest system or ladder safety system. 1910.28(b)(9)(i)(B)
• By 11/19/36, all ladders must be equipped with a personal fall arrest system or a ladder safety system. 1910.28(b)(9)(i)(D)

In the Summer 2018 issue of EH&S From Experience, we take a look at these new rules regarding fall protection and what they may mean for your facility.