Greetings! 
 
We understand how hard it is to stay afloat during these challenging economic times. That is why we want to keep you informed on the latest safety topics to save you and your employees from costly injuries. 
 
Over the next few months our newsletters will be addressing the leading causes of injuries and fatalities on the jobsite. Giving you key points that you can immediately implement, and offering you additional resources and courses to ensure the safety of your company's employees.
 
Sincerely,
 
Christina Marshman
Easy Safety School

Preventing Falls

Falls from elevation account for 1/3 of all deaths in construction.

The importance of safety training and enforcement of safety procedures will make the difference between your employees' and company's safety on a project. Putting your employees through OSHA safety courses not only helps them to be safety conscious workers but also lowers their chances of having a work related injury or fatality.

1926.503(a)(1)The employer shall provide a training program for each employee who might be exposed to fall hazards. The program shall enable each employee to recognize the hazards of falling and shall train each employee in the procedures to be followed in order to minimize these hazards.

OSHA Overview:
Using a stepladder as a non-self-supporting ladder

"29 CFR 1926.1053(b)(4) requires ladders to be used only for the purpose for which they were designed."
This means that using a stepladder when closed leaning against something with the bottom of the ladder weighted or with someone standing on it is not acceptable!
It also states "Ladder rungs, cleats, and steps shall be . . . level . . . when the ladder is in position for use. [Emphasis added]"
Here are some other guidelines for proper use.
Load
Ladders must be able to support at least four times the maximum supported load except extra-heavy duty metal or plastic ladders, which must be able to supports 3.3 times the max intended load.
Angle
When leaning a non-self-supporting ladder it must positioned at an angle that the horizontal distance from the top support to the foot is about ¼ the working length of the ladder. If the ladder is made on the job the angle should equal about 1/8 the working length.
Rungs
The rungs must be parallel, level, and uniformly spaced when the ladder is in position for use. The rungs must be shaped so the employees foot will not slip off.
Slipping
Ladders are to be kept free of oil, wet paint and other slipping hazards.
Other
Fold out ladders must have a locking devise to hold the front and back sections open and in position when in use.The area around the top and bottom of the ladder must be kept clear.Ladders must not be tied or fastened together to provide longer section.Never use a ladder for any other purpose than it was designed for.-OSHA.gov

You can view this and more useful information by visiting our website.

Visit our site today for OSHA Training Courses, Access to on-site OSHA Trainers, and FREE Safety Resources. We also offer group discounts and corporate billing accounts for your convenience.

Easy Safety School

www.EasySafetySchool.com