Google_Checkout

Site Map
 
 
Safety Videos, Software and Resources for OSHA Compliance

• Part Number: 1910
• Part Title: Occupational Safety and Health Standards
• Subpart: D
• Subpart Title: Walking-Working Surfaces
• Standard Number: 1910.21-1910.30
• Title: Definitions.

1910.21(a)

As used in 1910.23, unless the context requires otherwise, floor and wall opening, railing and toe board terms shall have the meanings ascribed in this paragraph.

1910.21(a)(1)

"Floor hole." An opening measuring less than 12 inches but more than 1 inch in its least dimension, in any floor, platform, pavement, or yard, through which materials but not persons may fall; such as a belt hole, pipe opening, or slot opening.

1910.21(a)(2)

"Floor opening." An opening measuring 12 inches or more in its least dimension, in any floor, platform, pavement, or yard through which persons may fall; such as a hatchway, stair or ladder opening, pit, or large manhole. Floor openings occupied by elevators, dumb waiters, conveyors, machinery, or containers are excluded from this subpart.

1910.21(a)(3)

"Handrail." A single bar or pipe supported on brackets from a wall or partition, as on a stairway or ramp, to furnish persons with a handhold in case of tripping.

..1910.21(a)(4)

1910.21(a)(4)

"Platform." A working space for persons, elevated above the surrounding floor or ground; such as a balcony or platform for the operation of machinery and equipment.

1910.21(a)(5)

"Runway." A passageway for persons, elevated above the surrounding floor or ground level, such as a footwalk along shafting or a walkway between buildings.

1910.21(a)(6)

"Standard railing." A vertical barrier erected along exposed edges of a floor opening, wall opening, ramp, platform, or runway to prevent falls of persons.

1910.21(a)(7)

"Standard strength and construction." Any construction of railings, covers, or other guards that meets the requirements of 1910.23.

1910.21(a)(8)

"Stair railing." A vertical barrier erected along exposed sides of a stairway to prevent falls of persons.

1910.21(a)(9)

"Toeboard." A vertical barrier at floor level erected along exposed edges of a floor opening, wall opening, platform, runway, or ramp to prevent falls of materials.

1910.21(a)(10)

"Wall hole." An opening less than 30 inches but more than 1 inch high,of unrestricted width, in any wall or partition; such as a ventilation hole or drainage scupper.

..1910.21(a)(11)

1910.21(a)(11)

"Wall opening." An opening at least 30 inches high and 18 inches wide,in any wall or partition, through which persons may fall; such as a yard-arm doorway or chute opening.

1910.21(b)

As used in 1910.24, unless the context requires otherwise, fixed industrial stair terms shall have the meaning ascribed in this paragraph.

1910.21(b)(1)

"Handrail." A single bar or pipe supported on brackets from a wall or partition to provide a continuous handhold for persons using a stair.

1910.21(b)(2)

"Nose, nosing." That portion of a tread projecting beyond the face of the riser immediately below.

1910.21(b)(3)

"Open riser." The air space between the treads of stairways without upright members (risers).

1910.21(b)(4)

"Platform." An extended step or landing breaking a continuous run of stairs.

1910.21(b)(5)

"Railing." A vertical barrier erected along exposed sides of stairways and platforms to prevent falls of persons. The top member of railing usually serves as a handrail.

1910.21(b)(6)

"Rise." The vertical distance from the top of a tread to the top of the next higher tread.

..1910.21(b)(7)

1910.21(b)(7)

"Riser." The upright member of a step situated at the back of a lower tread and near the leading edge of the next higher tread.

1910.21(b)(8)

"Stairs, stairway." A series of steps leading from one level or floor to another, or leading to platforms, pits, boiler rooms, crossovers, or around machinery, tanks, and other equipment that are used more or less continuously or routinely by employees, or only occasionally by specific individuals. A series of steps and landings having three or more risers constitutes stairs or stairway.

1910.21(b)(9)

"Tread." The horizontal member of a step.

1910.21(b)(10)

"Tread run." The horizontal distance from the leading edge of a tread to the leading edge of an adjacent tread.

1910.21(b)(11)

"Tread width." The horizontal distance from front to back of tread including nosing when used.

1910.21(c)

As used in 1910.25, unless the context requires otherwise, portable wood ladders terms shall have the meanings ascribed in this paragraph.

1910.21(c)(1)

"Ladders." A ladder is an appliance usually consisting of two side rails joined at regular intervals by cross-pieces called steps, rungs, or cleats, on which a person may step in ascending or descending.

..1910.21(c)(2)

1910.21(c)(2)

"Stepladder." A stepladder is a self-supporting portable ladder, nonadjustable in length, having flat steps and a hinged back. Its size is designated by the overall length of the ladder measured along the front edge of the side rails.

1910.21(c)(3)

"Single ladder." A single ladder is a non-self-supporting portable ladder, nonadjustable in length, consisting of but one section. Its size is designated by the overall length of the side rail.

1910.21(c)(4)

"Extension ladder." An extension ladder is a non-self-supporting portable ladder adjustable in length. It consists of two or more sections traveling in guides or brackets so arranged as to permit length adjustment. Its size is designated by the sum of the lengths of the sections measured along the side rails.

1910.21(c)(5)

"Sectional ladder." A sectional ladder is a non-self-supporting portable ladder, nonadjustable in length, consisting of two or more sections of ladder so constructed that the sections may be combined to function as a single ladder. Its size is designated by the overall length of the assembled sections.

1910.21(c)(6)

"Trestle ladder." A trestle ladder is a self-supporting portable ladder, nonadjustable in length, consisting of two sections hinged at the top to form equal angles with the base. The size is designated by the length of the side rails measured along the front edge.

..1910.21(c)(7)

1910.21(c)(7)

"Extension trestle ladder." An extension trestle ladder is a self-supporting portable ladder, adjustable in length, consisting of a trestle ladder base and a vertically adjustable single ladder, with suitable means for locking the ladders together. The size is designated by the length of the trestle ladder base.

1910.21(c)(8)

"Special-purpose ladder." A special-purpose ladder is a portable ladder which represents either a modification or a combination of design or construction features in one of the general-purpose types of ladders previously defined, in order to adapt the ladder to special or specific uses.

1910.21(c)(9)

"Trolley ladder." A trolley ladder is a semifixed ladder, nonadjustable in length, supported by attachments to an overhead track, the plane of the ladder being at right angles to the plane of motion.

1910.21(c)(10)

"Side-rolling ladder." A side-rolling ladder is a semifixed ladder, nonadjustable in length, supported by attachments to a guide rail, which is generally fastened to shelving, the plane of the ladder being also its plane of motion.

1910.21(c)(11)

"Wood characteristics." Wood characteristics are distinguishing features which by their extent and number determine the quality of a piece of wood.

1910.21(c)(12)

"Wood irregularities." Wood irregularities are natural characteristics in or on wood that may lower its durability, strength, or utility.

..1910.21(c)(13)

1910.21(c)(13)

"Cross grain." Cross grain (slope of grain) is a deviation of the fiber direction from a line parallel to the sides of the piece.

1910.21(c)(14)

"Knot." A knot is a branch or limb, imbedded in the tree and cut through in the process of lumber manufacture, classified according to size,quality, and occurrence. The size of the knot is determined as the average diameter on the surface of the piece.

1910.21(c)(15)

"Pitch and bark pockets." A pitch pocket is an opening extending parallel to the annual growth rings containing, or that has contained, pitch, either solid or liquid. A bark pocket is an opening between annual growth rings that contains bark.

1910.21(c)(16)

"Shake." A shake is a separation along the grain, most of which occurs between the rings of annual growth.

1910.21(c)(17)

"Check." A check is a lengthwise separation of the wood, most of which occurs across the rings of annual growth.

1910.21(c)(18)

"Wane." Wane is bark, or the lack of wood from any cause, on the corner of a piece.

1910.21(c)(19)

"Decay." Decay is disintegration of wood substance due to action of wood-destroying fungi. It is also known as dote and rot.

..1910.21(c)(20)

1910.21(c)(20)

"Compression failure." A compression failure is a deformation (buckling) of the fibers due to excessive compression along the grain.

1910.21(c)(21)

"Compression wood." Compression wood is an aberrant (abnormal) and highly variable type of wood structure occurring in softwood species. The wood commonly has density somewhat higher than does normal wood, but somewhat lower stiffness and tensile strength for its weight in addition to high longitudinal shrinkage.

1910.21(c)(22)

"Low density." Low-density wood is that which is exceptionally light in weight and usually deficient in strength properties for the species.

1910.21(d)

As used in 1910.26, unless the context requires otherwise, portable metal ladder terms shall have the meanings ascribed in this paragraph.

1910.21(d)(1)

"Ladder." A ladder is an appliance usually consisting of two side rails joined at regular intervals by cross-pieces called steps, rungs, or cleats, on which a person may step in ascending or descending.

1910.21(d)(2)

"Step ladder." A step ladder is a self-supporting portable ladder, nonadjustable in length, having flat steps and a hinged back. Its size is designated by the overall length of the ladder measured along the front edge of the side rails.

..1910.21(d)(3)

1910.21(d)(3)

"Single ladder." A single ladder is a non-self-supporting portable ladder, nonadjustable in length, consisting of but one section. Its size is designated by the overall length of the side rail.

1910.21(d)(4)

"Extension ladder." An extension ladder is a non-self-supporting portable ladder adjustable in length. It consists of two or more sections traveling in guides or brackets so arranged as to permit length adjustment. Its size is designated by the sum of the lengths of the sections measured along the side rails.

1910.21(d)(5)

"Platform ladder." A self-supporting ladder of fixed size with a platform provided at the working level. The size is determined by the distance along the front rail from the platform to the base of the ladder.

1910.21(d)(6)

"Sectional ladder." A sectional ladder is a non-self-supporting portable ladder, non-adjustable in length, consisting of two or more sections so constructed that the sections may be combined to function as a single ladder. Its size is designated by the overall length of the assembled sections.

1910.21(d)(7)

"Trestle ladder." A trestle ladder is a self-supporting portable ladder, non-adjustable in length, consisting of two sections, hinged at the top to form equal angles with the base. The size is designated by the length of the side rails measured along the front edge.

..1910.21(d)(8)

1910.21(d)(8)

"Extension trestle ladder." An extension trestle ladder is a self-supporting portable ladder, adjustable in length, consisting of a trestle ladder base and a vertically adjustable single ladder, with suitable means for locking the ladders together. The size is designated by the length of the trestle ladder base.

1910.21(d)(9)

"Special-purpose ladder." A special-purpose ladder is a portable ladder which represents either a modification or a combination of design or construction features in one of the general-purpose types of ladders previously defined, in order to adapt the ladder to special or specific uses.

1910.21(e)

As used in 1910.27, unless the context requires otherwise, fixed ladder terms shall have the meanings ascribed in this paragraph.

1910.21(e)(1)

"Ladder." A ladder is an appliance usually consisting of two side rails joined at regular intervals by cross-pieces called steps, rungs, or cleats, on which a person may step in ascending or descending.

1910.21(e)(2)

"Fixed ladder." A fixed ladder is a ladder permanently attached to a structure, building, or equipment.

1910.21(e)(3)

"Individual-rung ladder." An individual-rung ladder is a fixed ladder each rung of which is individually attached to a structure, building, or equipment.

..1910.21(e)(4)

1910.21(e)(4)

"Rail ladder." A rail ladder is a fixed ladder consisting of side rails joined at regular intervals by rungs or cleats and fastened in full length or in sections to a building, structure, or equipment.

1910.21(e)(5)

"Railings". A railing is any one or a combination of those railings constructed in accordance with 1910.23. A standard railing is a vertical barrier erected along exposed edges of floor openings, wall openings, ramps, platforms, and runways to prevent falls of persons.

1910.21(e)(6)

"Pitch." Pitch is the included angle between the horizontal and the ladder, measured on the opposite side of the ladder from the climbing side.

1910.21(e)(7)

"Fastenings." A fastening is a device to attach a ladder to a structure, building, or equipment.

1910.21(e)(8)

"Rungs." Rungs are ladder cross-pieces of circular or oval cross-section on which a person may step in ascending or descending.

1910.21(e)(9)

"Cleats." Cleats are ladder cross-pieces of rectangular cross-section placed on edge on which a person may step in ascending or descending.

1910.21(e)(10)

"Steps." Steps are the flat cross-pieces of a ladder on which a person may step in ascending or descending.

..1910.21(e)(11)

1910.21(e)(11)

"Cage." A cage is a guard that may be referred to as a cage or basket guard which is an enclosure that is fastened to the side rails of the fixed ladder or to the structure to encircle the climbing space of the ladder for the safety of the person who must climb the ladder.

1910.21(e)(12)

"Well." A well is a permanent complete enclosure around a fixed ladder, which is attached to the walls of the well. Proper clearances for a well will give the person who must climb the ladder the same protection as a cage.

1910.21(e)(13)

"Ladder safety device." A ladder safety device is any device, other than a cage or well, designed to eliminate or reduce the possibility of accidental falls and which may incorporate such features as life belts, friction brakes, and sliding attachments.

1910.21(e)(14)

"Grab bars." Grab bars are individual handholds placed adjacent to or as an extension above ladders for the purpose of providing access beyond the limits of the ladder.

1910.21(e)(15)

"Through ladder." A through ladder is one from which a man getting off at the top must step through the ladder in order to reach the landing.

1910.21(e)(16)

"Side-step ladder." A side-step ladder is one from which a man getting off at the top must step sideways from the ladder in order to reach the landing.

..1910.21(f)

1910.21(f)

As used in 1910.28, unless the context requires otherwise, scaffolding terms shall have the meaning ascribed in this paragraph.

1910.21(f)(1)

"Bearer." A horizontal member of a scaffold upon which the platform rests and which may be supported by ledgers.

1910.21(f)(2)

"Boatswain's chair." A seat supported by slings attached to a suspended rope, designed to accommodate one workman in a sitting position.

1910.21(f)(3)

"Brace." A tie that holds one scaffold member in a fixed position with respect to another member.

1910.21(f)(4)

"Bricklayers' square scaffold." A scaffold composed of framed wood squares which support a platform limited to light and medium duty.

1910.21(f)(5)

"Carpenters' bracket scaffold." A scaffold consisting of wood or metal brackets supporting a platform.

1910.21(f)(6)

"Coupler." A device for locking together the component parts of a tubular metal scaffold. The material used for the couplers shall be of a structural type, such as a drop-forged steel, malleable iron, or structural grade aluminum. The use of gray cast iron is prohibited.

..1910.21(f)(7)

1910.21(f)(7)

"Crawling board or chicken ladder." A plank with cleats spaced and secured at equal intervals, for use by a worker on roofs, not designed to carry any material.

1910.21(f)(8)

"Double pole or independent pole scaffold." A scaffold supported from the base by a double row of uprights, independent of support from the walls and constructed of uprights, ledgers, horizontal platform bearers, and diagonal bracing.

1910.21(f)(9)

"Float or ship scaffold." A scaffold hung from overhead supports by means of ropes and consisting of a substantial platform having diagonal bracing underneath, resting upon and securely fastened to two parallel plank bearers at right angles to the span.

1910.21(f)(10)

"Guardrail." A rail secured to uprights and erected along the exposed sides and ends of platforms.

1910.21(f)(11)

"Heavy duty scaffold." A scaffold designed and constructed to carry a working load not to exceed 75 pounds per square foot.

1910.21(f)(12)

"Horse scaffold." A scaffold for light or medium duty, composed of horses supporting a work platform.

1910.21(f)(13)

"Interior hung scaffold." A scaffold suspended from the ceiling or roof structure.

..1910.21(f)(14)

1910.21(f)(14)

"Ladder jack scaffold." A light duty scaffold supported by brackets attached to ladders.

1910.21(f)(15)

"Ledger (stringer)." A horizontal scaffold member which extends from post to post and which supports the putlogs or bearer forming a tie between the posts.

1910.21(f)(16)

"Light duty scaffold." A scaffold designed and constructed to carry a working load not to exceed 25 pounds per square foot.

1910.21(f)(17)

"Manually propelled mobile scaffold." A portable rolling scaffold supported by casters.

1910.21(f)(18)

"Masons' adjustable multiple-point suspension scaffold." A scaffold having a continuous platform supported by bearers suspended by wire rope from overhead supports, so arranged and operated as to permit the raising or lowering of the platform to desired working positions.

1910.21(f)(19)

"Maximum intended load." The total of all loads including the working load, the weight of the scaffold, and such other loads as may be reasonably anticipated.

1910.21(f)(20)

"Medium duty scaffold." A scaffold designed and constructed to carry a working load not to exceed 50 pounds per square foot.

..1910.21(f)(21)

1910.21(f)(21)

"Mid-rail." A rail approximately midway between the guardrail and platform, used when required, and secured to the uprights erected along the exposed sides and ends of platforms.

1910.21(f)(22)

"Needle beam scaffold." A light duty scaffold consisting of needle beams supporting a platform.

1910.21(f)(23)

"Outrigger scaffold." A scaffold supported by outriggers or thrustouts projecting beyond the wall or face of the building or structure,the inboard ends of which are secured inside of such a building or structure.

1910.21(f)(24)

"Putlog." A scaffold member upon which the platform rests.

1910.21(f)(25)

"Roofing bracket." A bracket used in sloped roof construction, having provisions for fastening to the roof or supported by ropes fastened over the ridge and secured to some suitable object.

1910.21(f)(26)

"Runner." The lengthwise horizontal bracing or bearing members or both.

1910.21(f)(27)

"Scaffold." Any temporary elevated platform and its supporting structure used for supporting workmen or materials or both.

..1910.21(f)(28)

1910.21(f)(28)

"Single-point adjustable suspension scaffold." A manually or power-operated unit designed for light duty use, supported by a single wire rope from an overhead support so arranged and operated as to permit the raising or lowering of the platform to desired working positions.

1910.21(f)(29)

"Single pole scaffold." Platforms resting on putlogs or crossbeams, the outside ends of which are supported on ledgers secured to a single row of posts or uprights and the inner ends of which are supported on or in a wall.

1910.21(f)(30)

"Stone setters' adjustable multiple-point suspension scaffold." A swinging-type scaffold having a platform supported by hangers suspended at four points so as to permit the raising or lowering of the platform to the desired working position by the use of hoisting machines.

1910.21(f)(31)

"Toeboard." A barrier secured along the sides and ends of a platform, to guard against the falling of material.

1910.21(f)(32)

"Tube and coupler scaffold." An assembly consisting of tubing which serves as posts, bearers, braces, ties, and runners, a base supporting the posts, and special couplers which serve to connect the uprights and to join the various members.

..1910.21(f)(33)

1910.21(f)(33)

"Tubular welded frame scaffold." A sectional, panel, or frame metal scaffold substantially built up of prefabricated welded sections which consist of posts and horizontal bearer with intermediate members. Panels or frames shall be braced with diagonal or cross braces.

1910.21(f)(34)

"Two-point suspension scaffold (swinging scaffold)." A scaffold, the platform of which is supported by hangers (stirrups) at two points, suspended from overhead supports so as to permit the raising or lowering of the platform to the desired working position by tackle or hoisting machines.

1910.21(f)(35)

"Window jack scaffold." A scaffold, the platform of which is supported by a bracket or jack which projects through a window opening.

1910.21(f)(36)

"Working load." Load imposed by men, materials, and equipment.

1910.21(g)

As used in 1910.29, unless the context requires otherwise, manually propelled mobile ladder stand and scaffold (tower) terms shall have the meaning ascribed in this paragraph.

1910.21(g)(1)

"Bearer." A horizontal member of a scaffold upon which the platform rests and which may be supported by ledgers.

1910.21(g)(2)

"Brace." A tie that holds one scaffold member in a fixed position with respect to another member.

..1910.21(g)(3)

1910.21(g)(3)

"Climbing ladder." A separate ladder with equally spaced rungs usually attached to the scaffold structure for climbing and descending.

1910.21(g)(4)

"Coupler." A device for locking together the components of a tubular metal scaffold which shall be designed and used to safely support the maximum intended loads.

1910.21(g)(5)

"Design working load." The maximum intended load, being the total of all loads including the weight of the men, materials, equipment, and platform.

1910.21(g)(6)

"Equivalent." Alternative design or features, which will provide an equal degree or factor of safety.

1910.21(g)(7)

"Guardrail." A barrier secured to uprights and erected along the exposed sides and ends of platforms to prevent falls of persons.

1910.21(g)(8)

"Handrail." A rail connected to a ladder stand running parallel to the slope and/or top step.

1910.21(g)(9)

"Ladder stand." A mobile fixed size self-supporting ladder consisting of a wide flat tread ladder in the form of stairs. The assembly may include handrails.

..1910.21(g)(10)

1910.21(g)(10)

"Ledger (stringer)." A horizontal scaffold member which extends from post to post and which supports the bearer forming a tie between the posts.

1910.21(g)(11)

"Mobile scaffold (tower)." A light, medium, or heavy duty scaffold mounted on casters or wheels.

1910.21(g)(12)

"Mobile." "Manually propelled."

1910.21(g)(13)

"Mobile work platform." Generally a fixed work level one frame high on casters or wheels, with bracing diagonally from platform to vertical frame.

1910.21(g)(14)

"Runner." The lengthwise horizontal bracing and/or bearing members.

1910.21(g)(15)

"Scaffold." Any temporary elevated platform and its necessary vertical, diagonal, and horizontal members used for supporting workmen and materials. (Also known as a scaffold tower.)

1910.21(g)(16)

"Toeboard." A barrier at platform level erected along the exposed sides and ends of a scaffold platform to prevent falls of materials.

..1910.21(g)(17)

1910.21(g)(17)

"Tube and coupler scaffold." An assembly consisting of tubing which serves as posts, bearers, braces, ties, and runners, a base supporting the posts, and uprights, and serves to join the various members, usually used in fixed locations.

1910.21(g)(18)

"Tubular welded frame scaffold." A sectional, panel, or frame metal scaffold substantially built up of prefabricated welded sections, which consist of posts and bearers with intermediate connecting members and braced with diagonal or cross braces.

1910.21(g)(19)

"Tubular welded sectional folding scaffold." A sectional, folding metal scaffold either of ladder frame or inside stairway design, substantially built of prefabricated welded sections, which consist of end frames, platform frame, inside inclined stairway frame and braces, or hinged connected diagonal and horizontal braces, capable of being folded into a flat package when the scaffold is not in use.

1910.21(g)(20)

"Work level." The elevated platform, used for supporting workmen and their materials, comprising the necessary vertical, horizontal, and diagonal braces, guardrails, and ladder for access to the work platform.

This section applies to all permanent places of employment, except where domestic, mining, or agricultural work only is performed. Measures for the control of toxic materials are considered to be outside the scope of this section.

1910.22(a)

"Housekeeping."

1910.22(a)(1)

All places of employment, passageways, storerooms, and service rooms shall be kept clean and orderly and in a sanitary condition.

1910.22(a)(2)

The floor of every workroom shall be maintained in a clean and, so far as possible, a dry condition. Where wet processes are used, drainage shall be maintained, and false floors, platforms, mats, or other dry standing places should be provided where practicable.

1910.22(a)(3)

To facilitate cleaning, every floor, working place, and passageway shall be kept free from protruding nails, splinters, holes, or loose boards.

1910.22(b)

"Aisles and passageways."

1910.22(b)(1)

Where mechanical handling equipment is used, sufficient safe clearances shall be allowed for aisles, at loading docks, through doorways and wherever turns or passage must be made. Aisles and passageways shall be kept clear and in good repairs, with no obstruction across or in aisles that could create a hazard.

..1910.22(b)(2)

1910.22(b)(2)

Permanent aisles and passageways shall be appropriately marked.

1910.22(c)

"Covers and guardrails." Covers and/or guardrails shall be provided to protect personnel from the hazards of open pits, tanks, vats, ditches, etc.

1910.22(d)

"Floor loading protection."

1910.22(d)(1)

In every building or other structure, or part thereof, used for mercantile, business, industrial, or storage purposes, the loads approved by the building official shall be marked on plates of approved design which shall be supplied and securely affixed by the owner of the building, or his duly authorized agent, in a conspicuous place in each space to which they relate. Such plates shall not be removed or defaced but, if lost, removed, or defaced, shall be replaced by the owner or his agent.

1910.22(d)(2)

It shall be unlawful to place, or cause, or permit to be placed, on any floor or roof of a building or other structure a load greater than that for which such floor or roof is approved by the building official.

1910.23(a)

"Protection for floor openings."

1910.23(a)(1)

Every stairway floor opening shall be guarded by a standard railing constructed in accordance with paragraph (e) of this section. The railing shall be provided on all exposed sides (except at entrance to stairway). For infrequently used stairways where traffic across the opening prevents the use of fixed standard railing (as when located in aisle spaces, etc.), the guard shall consist of a hinged floor opening cover of standard strength and construction and removable standard railings on all exposed sides (except at entrance to stairway).

1910.23(a)(2)

Every ladderway floor opening or platform shall be guarded by a standard railing with standard toeboard on all exposed sides (except at entrance to opening), with the passage through the railing either provided with a swinging gate or so offset that a person cannot walk directly into the opening.

1910.23(a)(3)

Every hatchway and chute floor opening shall be guarded by one of the following:

..1910.23(a)(3)(i)

1910.23(a)(3)(i)

Hinged floor opening cover of standard strength and construction equipped with standard railings or permanently attached thereto so as to leave only one exposed side. When the opening is not in use, the cover shall be closed or the exposed side shall be guarded at both top and intermediate positions by removable standard railings.

1910.23(a)(3)(ii)

A removable railing with toeboard on not more than two sides of the opening and fixed standard railings with toeboards on all other exposed sides. The removable railings shall be kept in place when the opening is not in use.

Where operating conditions necessitate the feeding of material into any hatchway or chute opening, protection shall be provided to prevent a person from falling through the opening.

1910.23(a)(4)

Every skylight floor opening and hole shall be guarded by a standard skylight screen or a fixed standard railing on all exposed sides.

1910.23(a)(5)

Every pit and trapdoor floor opening, infrequently used, shall be guarded by a floor opening cover of standard strength and construction. While the cover is not in place, the pit or trap opening shall be constantly attended by someone or shall be protected on all exposed sides by removable standard railings.

1910.23(a)(6)

Every manhole floor opening shall be guarded by a standard manhole cover which need not be hinged in place. While the cover is not in place, the manhole opening shall be constantly attended by someone or shall be protected by removable standard railings.

1910.23(a)(7)

Every temporary floor opening shall have standard railings, or shall be constantly attended by someone.

..1910.23(a)(8)

1910.23(a)(8)

Every floor hole into which persons can accidentally walk shall be guarded by either:

1910.23(a)(8)(i)

A standard railing with standard toeboard on all exposed sides, or

1910.23(a)(8)(ii)

A floor hole cover of standard strength and construction. While the cover is not in place, the floor hole shall be constantly attended by someone or shall be protected by a removable standard railing.

1910.23(a)(9)

Every floor hole into which persons cannot accidentally walk (on account of fixed machinery, equipment, or walls) shall be protected by a cover that leaves no openings more than 1 inch wide. The cover shall be securely held in place to prevent tools or materials from falling through.

1910.23(a)(10)

Where doors or gates open directly on a stairway, a platform shall be provided, and the swing of the door shall not reduce the effective width to less than 20 inches.

1910.23(b)

"Protection for wall openings and holes."

1910.23(b)(1)

Every wall opening from which there is a drop of more than 4 feet shall be guarded by one of the following:

..1910.23(b)(1)(i)

1910.23(b)(1)(i)

Rail, roller, picket fence, half door, or equivalent barrier. Where there is exposure below to falling materials, a removable toe board or the equivalent shall also be provided. When the opening is not in use for handling materials, the guard shall be kept in position regardless of a door on the opening. In addition, a grab handle shall be provided on each side of the opening with its center approximately 4 feet above floor level and of standard strength and mounting.

1910.23(b)(1)(ii)

Extension platform onto which materials can be hoisted for handling,and which shall have side rails or equivalent guards of standard specifications.

1910.23(b)(2)

Every chute wall opening from which there is a drop of more than 4 feet shall be guarded by one or more of the barriers specified in paragraph (b)(1) of this section or as required by the conditions.

1910.23(b)(3)

Every window wall opening at a stairway landing, floor, platform, or balcony, from which there is a drop of more than 4 feet, and where the bottom of the opening is less than 3 feet above the platform or landing, shall be guarded by standard slats, standard grill work (as specified in paragraph (e)(11) of this section), or standard railing.

Where the window opening is below the landing, or platform, a standard toe board shall be provided.

1910.23(b)(4)

Every temporary wall opening shall have adequate guards but these need not be of standard construction.

..1910.23(b)(5)

1910.23(b)(5)

Where there is a hazard of materials falling through a wall hole, and the lower edge of the near side of the hole is less than 4 inches above the floor, and the far side of the hole more than 5 feet above the next lower level, the hole shall be protected by a standard toeboard, or an enclosing screen either of solid construction, or as specified in paragraph (e)(11) of this section.

1910.23(c)

"Protection of open-sided floors, platforms, and runways."

1910.23(c)(1)

Every open-sided floor or platform 4 feet or more above adjacent floor or ground level shall be guarded by a standard railing (or the equivalent as specified in paragraph (e)(3) of this section) on all open sides except where there is entrance to a ramp, stairway, or fixed ladder. The railing shall be provided with a toeboard wherever, beneath the open sides,

1910.23(c)(1)(i)

Persons can pass,

1910.23(c)(1)(ii)

There is moving machinery, or

1910.23(c)(1)(iii)

There is equipment with which falling materials could create a hazard.

1910.23(c)(2)

Every runway shall be guarded by a standard railing (or the equivalent as specified in paragraph (e)(3) of this section) on all open sides 4 feet or more above floor or ground level. Wherever tools, machine parts, or materials are likely to be used on the runway, a toeboard shall also be provided on each exposed side.

Runways used exclusively for special purposes (such as oiling, shafting, or filling tank cars) may have the railing on one side omitted where operating conditions necessitate such omission, providing the falling hazard is minimized by using a runway of not less than 18 inches wide. Where persons entering upon runways become thereby exposed to machinery, electrical equipment, or other danger not a falling hazard, additional guarding than is here specified may be essential for protection.

..1910.23(c)(3)

1910.23(c)(3)

Regardless of height, open-sided floors, walkways, platforms, or runways above or adjacent to dangerous equipment, pickling or galvanizing tanks, degreasing units, and similar hazards shall be guarded with a standard railing and toe board.

1910.23(d)

"Stairway railings and guards."

1910.23(d)(1)

Every flight of stairs having four or more risers shall be equipped with standard stair railings or standard handrails as specified in paragraphs (d)(1)(i) through (v) of this section, the width of the stair to be measured clear of all obstructions except handrails:

1910.23(d)(1)(i)

On stairways less than 44 inches wide having both sides enclosed, at least one handrail, preferably on the right side descending.

1910.23(d)(1)(ii)

On stairways less than 44 inches wide having one side open, at least one stair railing on open side.

1910.23(d)(1)(iii)

On stairways less than 44 inches wide having both sides open, one stair railing on each side.

1910.23(d)(1)(iv)

On stairways more than 44 inches wide but less than 88 inches wide, one handrail on each enclosed side and one stair railing on each open side.

1910.23(d)(1)(v)

On stairways 88 or more inches wide, one handrail on each enclosed side, one stair railing on each open side, and one intermediate stair railing located approximately midway of the width.

..1910.23(d)(2)

1910.23(d)(2)

Winding stairs shall be equipped with a handrail offset to prevent walking on all portions of the treads having width less than 6 inches.

1910.23(e)

"Railing, toe boards, and cover specifications."

1910.23(e)(1)

A standard railing shall consist of top rail, intermediate rail, and posts, and shall have a vertical height of 42 inches nominal from upper surface of top rail to floor, platform, runway, or ramp level. The top rail shall be smooth-surfaced throughout the length of the railing. The intermediate rail shall be approximately halfway between the top rail and the floor, platform, runway, or ramp. The ends of the rails shall not overhang the terminal posts except where such overhang does not constitute a projection hazard.

1910.23(e)(2)

A stair railing shall be of construction similar to a standard railing but the vertical height shall be not more than 34 inches nor less than 30 inches from upper surface of top rail to surface of tread in line with face of riser at forward edge of tread.

1910.23(e)(3)

[Reserved]

1910.23(e)(3)(i)

For wood railings, the posts shall be of at least 2-inch by 4-inch stock spaced not to exceed 6 feet; the top and intermediate rails shall be of at least 2-inch by 4-inch stock. If top rail is made of two right-angle pieces of 1-inch by 4-inch stock, posts may be spaced on 8-foot centers, with 2-inch by 4-inch intermediate rail.

..1910.23(e)(3)(ii)

1910.23(e)(3)(ii)

For pipe railings, posts and top and intermediate railings shall be at least 1 1/2 inches nominal diameter with posts spaced not more than 8 feet on centers.

1910.23(e)(3)(iii)

For structural steel railings, posts and top and intermediate rails shall be of 2-inch by 2-inch by 3/8-inch angles or other metal shapes of equivalent bending strength with posts spaced not more than 8 feet on centers.

1910.23(e)(3)(iv)

The anchoring of posts and framing of members for railings of all types shall be of such construction that the completed structure shall be capable of withstanding a load of at least 200 pounds applied in any direction at any point on the top rail.

1910.23(e)(3)(v)

Other types, sizes, and arrangements of railing construction are acceptable provided they meet the following conditions:

1910.23(e)(3)(v)(a)

A smooth-surfaced top rail at a height above floor, platform, runway, or ramp level of 42 inches nominal;

1910.23(e)(3)(v)(b)

A strength to withstand at least the minimum requirement of 200 pounds top rail pressure;

1910.23(e)(3)(v)(c)

Protection between top rail and floor, platform, runway, ramp, or stair treads, equivalent at least to that afforded by a standard intermediate rail;

..1910.23(e)(4)

1910.23(e)(4)

A standard toeboard shall be 4 inches nominal in vertical height from its top edge to the level of the floor, platform, runway, or ramp. It shall be securely fastened in place and with not more than 1/4-inch clearance above floor level. It may be made of any substantial material either solid or with openings not over 1 inch in greatest dimension.

Where material is piled to such height that a standard toeboard does not provide protection, paneling from floor to intermediate rail, or to top rail shall be provided.

1910.23(e)(5)

1910.23(e)(5)(i)

A handrail shall consist of a lengthwise member mounted directly on a wall or partition by means of brackets attached to the lower side of the handrail so as to offer no obstruction to a smooth surface along the top and both sides of the handrail. The handrail shall be of rounded or other section that will furnish an adequate handhold for anyone grasping it to avoid falling. The ends of the handrail should be turned in to the supporting wall or otherwise arranged so as not to constitute a projection hazard.

1910.23(e)(5)(ii)

The height of handrails shall be not more than 34 inches nor less than 30 inches from upper surface of handrail to surface of tread in line with face of riser or to surface of ramp.

1910.23(e)(5)(iii)

The size of handrails shall be: When of hardwood, at least 2 inches in diameter; when of metal pipe, at least 1 1/2 inches in diameter. The length of brackets shall be such as will give a clearance between handrail and wall or any projection thereon of at least 3 inches. The spacing of brackets shall not exceed 8 feet.

..1910.23(e)(5)(iv)

1910.23(e)(5)(iv)

The mounting of handrails shall be such that the completed structure is capable of withstanding a load of at least 200 pounds applied in any direction at any point on the rail.

1910.23(e)(6)

All handrails and railings shall be provided with a clearance of not less than 3 inches between the handrail or railing and any other object.

1910.23(e)(7)

Floor opening covers may be of any material that meets the following strength requirements:

1910.23(e)(7)(i)

Trench or conduit covers and their supports, when located in plant roadways, shall be designed to carry a truck rear-axle load of at least 20,000 pounds.

1910.23(e)(7)(ii)

Manhole covers and their supports, when located in plant roadways, shall comply with local standard highway requirements if any; otherwise, they shall be designed to carry a truck rear-axle load of at least 20,000 pounds.

1910.23(e)(7)(iii)

The construction of floor opening covers may be of any material that meets the strength requirements. Covers projecting not more than 1 inch above the floor level may be used providing all edges are chamfered to an angle with the horizontal of not over 30 degrees. All hinges, handles, bolts, or other parts shall set flush with the floor or cover surface.

..1910.23(e)(8)

1910.23(e)(8)

Skylight screens shall be of such construction and mounting that they are capable of withstanding a load of at least 200 pounds applied perpendicularly at any one area on the screen. They shall also be of such construction and mounting that under ordinary loads or impacts, they will not deflect downward sufficiently to break the glass below them. The construction shall be of grillwork with openings not more than 4 inches long or of slatwork with openings not more than 2 inches wide with length unrestricted.

1910.23(e)(9)

Wall opening barriers (rails, rollers, picket fences, and half doors) shall be of such construction and mounting that, when in place at the opening, the barrier is capable of withstanding a load of at least 200 pounds applied in any direction (except upward) at any point on the top rail or corresponding member.

1910.23(e)(10)

Wall opening grab handles shall be not less than 12 inches in length and shall be so mounted as to give 3 inches clearance from the side framing of the wall opening. The size, material, and anchoring of the grab handle shall be such that the completed structure is capable of withstanding a load of at least 200 pounds applied in any direction at any point of the handle.

1910.23(e)(11)

Wall opening screens shall be of such construction and mounting that they are capable of withstanding a load of at least 200 pounds applied horizontally at any point on the near side of the screen. They may be of solid construction, of grillwork with openings not more than 8 inches long, or of slatwork with openings not more than 4 inches wide with length unrestricted.

[39 FR 23502, June 27, 1974, as amended at 43 FR 49744, Oct. 24, 1978; 49 FR 5321, Feb. 10, 1984]

1910.24(a)

"Application of requirements." This section contains specifications for the safe design and construction of fixed general industrial stairs. This classification includes interior and exterior stairs around machinery, tanks, and other equipment, and stairs leading to or from floors, platforms, or pits. This section does not apply to stairs used for fire exit purposes, to construction operations to private residences, or to articulated stairs, such as may be installed on floating roof tanks or on dock facilities, the angle of which changes with the rise and fall of the base support.

..1910.24(b)

1910.24(b)

"Where fixed stairs are required." Fixed stairs shall be provided for access from one structure level to another where operations necessitate regular travel between levels, and for access to operating platforms at any equipment which requires attention routinely during operations. Fixed stairs shall also be provided where access to elevations is daily or at each shift for such purposes as gauging, inspection, regular maintenance, etc., where such work may expose employees to acids, caustics, gases, or other harmful substances, or for which purposes the carrying of tools or equipment by hand is normally required. (It is not the intent of this section to preclude the use of fixed ladders for access to elevated tanks, towers, and similar structures, overhead traveling cranes, etc., where the use of fixed ladders is common practice.) Spiral stairways shall not be permitted except for special limited usage and secondary access situations where it is not practical to provide a conventional stairway. Winding stairways may be installed on tanks and similar round structures where the diameter of the structure is not less than five (5) feet.

1910.24(c)

"Stair strength." Fixed stairways shall be designed and constructed to carry a load of five times the normal live load anticipated but never of less strength than to carry safely a moving concentrated load of 1,000 pounds.

1910.24(d)

"Stair width." Fixed stairways shall have a minimum width of 22 inches.

1910.24(e)

"Angle of stairway rise." Fixed stairs shall be installed at angles to the horizontal of between 30 deg. and 50 deg. Any uniform combination of rise/tread dimensions may be used that will result in a stairway at an angle to the horizontal within the permissible range. Table D-1 gives rise/tread dimensions which will produce a stairway within the permissible range, stating the angle to the horizontal produced by each combination. However, the rise/tread combinations are not limited to those given in Table D-1.

                            Table D-1
____________________________________________________________________
                         |                  |
   Angle to horizontal   | Rise (in inches) | Tread run (in inches)
__________________________|__________________|______________________
                         |                  |
30 deg. 35'...............|            6 1/2 |               11
32 deg. 08'...............|            6 3/4 |           10 3/4
33 deg. 41'...............|                7 |           10 1/2
35 deg. 16'...............|            7 1/4 |           10 1/4
36 deg. 52'...............|            7 1/2 |               10
38 deg. 29'...............|            7 3/4 |            9 3/4
40 deg. 08'...............|                8 |            9 1/2
41 deg. 44'...............|            8 1/4 |            9 1/4
43 deg. 22'...............|            8 1/2 |                9
45 deg. 00'...............|            8 3/4 |            8 3/4
46 deg. 38'...............|                9 |            8 1/2
48 deg. 16'...............|            9 1/4 |            8 1/4
49 deg. 54'...............|            9 1/2 |                8
__________________________|__________________|______________________

                  

..1910.24(f)

1910.24(f)

"Stair treads." All treads shall be reasonably slip-resistant and the nosings shall be of nonslip finish. Welded bar grating treads without nosings are acceptable providing the leading edge can be readily identified by personnel descending the stairway and provided the tread is serrated or is of definite nonslip design. Rise height and tread width shall be uniform throughout any flight of stairs including any foundation structure used as one or more treads of the stairs.

1910.24(g)

"Stairway platforms." Stairway platforms shall be no less than the width of a stairway and a minimum of 30 inches in length measured in the direction of travel.

1910.24(h)

"Railings and handrails." Standard railings shall be provided on the open sides of all exposed stairways and stair platforms. Handrails shall be provided on at least one side of closed stairways preferably on the right side descending. Stair railings and handrails shall be installed in accordance with the provisions of 1910.23.

1910.24(i)

"Vertical clearance." Vertical clearance above any stair tread to an overhead obstruction shall be at least 7 feet measured from the leading edge of the tread.

[39 FR 23502, June 27, 1974, as amended at 43 FR 49744, Oct. 24, 1978; 49 FR 5321, Feb. 10, 1984]

1910.25(a)

"Application of requirements." This section is intended to prescribe rules and establish minimum requirements for the construction, care, and use of the common types of portable wood ladders, in order to insure safety under normal conditions of usage. Other types of special ladders, fruitpicker's ladders, combination step and extension ladders, stockroom step ladders, aisle-way step ladders, shelf ladders, and library ladders are not specifically covered by this section.

1910.25(b)

"Materials" -

1910.25(b)(1)

"Requirements applicable to all wood parts."

1910.25(b)(1)(i)

All wood parts shall be free from sharp edges and splinters; sound and free from accepted visual inspection from shake, wane, compression failures, decay, or other irregularities. Low density wood shall not be used.

1910.25(c)

"Construction requirements."

1910.25(c)(1)

[Reserved]

..1910.25(c)(2)

1910.25(c)(2)

"Portable stepladders." Stepladders longer than 20 feet shall not be supplied. Stepladders as hereinafter specified shall be of three types:

Type I   - Industrial stepladder, 3 to 20 feet for heavy duty, such
          as utilities, contractors, and industrial use.
Type II  - Commercial stepladder, 3 to 12 feet for medium duty, such
          as painters, offices, and light industrial use.
Type III - Household stepladder, 3 to 6 feet for light duty, such as
          light household use.

                  

1910.25(c)(2)(i)

"General requirements."

1910.25(c)(2)(i)(a)

[Reserved]

1910.25(c)(2)(i)(b)

A uniform step spacing shall be employed which shall be not more than 12 inches. Steps shall be parallel and level when the ladder is in position for use.

1910.25(c)(2)(i)(c)

The minimum width between side rails at the top, inside to inside, shall be not less than 11 1/2 inches. From top to bottom, the side rails shall spread at least 1 inch for each foot of length of stepladder.

1910.25(c)(2)(i)(d)

-

1910.25(c)(2)(i)(e)

[Reserved]

1910.25(c)(2)(i)(f)

A metal spreader or locking device of sufficient size and strength to securely hold the front and back sections in open positions shall be a component of each stepladder. The spreader shall have all sharp points covered or removed to protect the user. For Type III ladder, the pail shelf and spreader may be combined in one unit (the so-called shelf-lock ladder).

..1910.25(c)(3)

1910.25(c)(3)

"Portable rung ladders."

1910.25(c)(3)(i)

[Reserved]

1910.25(c)(3)(ii)

"Single ladder."

1910.25(c)(3)(ii)(a)

Single ladders longer than 30 feet shall not be supplied.

1910.25(c)(3)(iii)

"Two-section ladder."

1910.25(c)(3)(iii)(a)

Two-section extension ladders longer than 60 feet shall not be supplied. All ladders of this type shall consist of two sections, one to fit within the side rails of the other, and arranged in such a manner that the upper section can be raised and lowered.

1910.25(c)(3)(iv)

"Sectional ladder."

1910.25(c)(3)(iv)(a)

Assembled combinations of sectional ladders longer than lengths specified in this subdivision shall not be used.

1910.25(c)(3)(v)

"Trestle and extension trestle ladder."

1910.25(c)(3)(v)(a)

Trestle ladders, or extension sections or base sections of extension trestle ladders longer than 20 feet shall not be supplied.

..1910.25(c)(4)

1910.25(c)(4)

"Special-purpose ladders."

1910.25(c)(4)(i)

[Reserved]

1910.25(c)(4)(ii)

"Painter's stepladder."

1910.25(c)(4)(ii)(a)

Painter's stepladders longer than 12 feet shall not be supplied.

1910.25(c)(4)(iii)

"Mason's ladder." A mason's ladder is a special type of single ladder intended for use in heavy construction work.

1910.25(c)(4)(iii)(a)

Mason's ladders longer than 40 feet shall not be supplied.

1910.25(c)(5)

"Trolley and side-rolling ladders" -

1910.25(c)(5)(i)

"Length." Trolley ladders and side-rolling ladders longer than 20 feet should not be supplied.

1910.25(d)

"Care and use of ladders" -

1910.25(d)(1)

"Care." To insure safety and serviceability the following precautions on the care of ladders shall be observed:

..1910.25(d)(1)(i)

1910.25(d)(1)(i)

Ladders shall be maintained in good condition at all times, the joint between the steps and side rails shall be tight, all hardware and fittings securely attached, and the movable parts shall operate freely without binding or undue play.

1910.25(d)(1)(ii)

Metal bearings of locks, wheels, pulleys, etc., shall be frequently lubricated.

1910.25(d)(1)(iii)

Frayed or badly worn rope shall be replaced.

1910.25(d)(1)(iv)

Safety feet and other auxiliary equipment shall be kept in good condition to insure proper performance.

1910.25(d)(1)(v)-(ix)

[Reserved]

1910.25(d)(1)(x)

Ladders shall be inspected frequently and those which have developed defects shall be withdrawn from service for repair or destruction and tagged or marked as "Dangerous, Do Not Use."

1910.25(d)(1)(xi)

Rungs should be kept free of grease and oil.

1910.25(d)(2)

"Use." The following safety precautions shall be observed in connection with the use of ladders:

..1910.25(d)(2)(i)

1910.25(d)(2)(i)

Portable rung and cleat ladders shall, where possible, be used at such a pitch that the horizontal distance from the top support to the foot of the ladder is one-quarter of the working length of the ladder (the length along the ladder between the foot and the top support). The ladder shall be so placed as to prevent slipping, or it shall be lashed, or held in position. Ladders shall not be used in a horizontal position as platforms, runways, or scaffolds;

1910.25(d)(2)(ii)

Ladders for which dimensions are specified should not be used by more than one man at a time nor with ladder jacks and scaffold planks where use by more than one man is anticipated. In such cases, specially designed ladders with larger dimensions of the parts should be procured;

1910.25(d)(2)(iii)

Portable ladders shall be so placed that the side rails have a secure footing. The top rest for portable rung and cleat ladders shall be reasonably rigid and shall have ample strength to support the applied load;

1910.25(d)(2)(iv)

Ladders shall not be placed in front of doors opening toward the ladder unless the door is blocked upon, locked, or guarded;

1910.25(d)(2)(v)

Ladders shall not be placed on boxes, barrels, or other unstable bases to obtain additional height;

1910.25(d)(2)(vi)-(vii)

[Reserved]

1910.25(d)(2)(viii)

Ladders with broken or missing steps, rungs, or cleats, broken side rails, or other faulty equipment shall not be used; improvised repairs shall not be made;

..1910.25(d)(2)(ix)

1910.25(d)(2)(ix)

Short ladders shall not be spliced together to provide long sections;

1910.25(d)(2)(x)

Ladders made by fastening cleats across a single rail shall not be used;

1910.25(d)(2)(xi)

Ladders shall not be used as guys, braces, or skids, or for other than their intended purposes;

1910.25(d)(2)(xii)

Tops of the ordinary types of step