Main OSHA Regulation
1910.28(b)(1)(i) The employer must ensure that walking-working surfaces with an unprotected side or edge that is 4 feet or more above a lower level is protected by Guardrail systems, safety net systems, personal fall protection systems such as personal fall arrest or restraint.
1910.29(b)(2)(iii) Intermediate vertical members (such as balusters) are installed no more than 19 inches (48 cm) apart; and 1910.29(b)(2)(iv) Other equivalent intermediate members (such as additional midrails and architectural panels) are installed so that the openings are not more than 19 inches (48 cm) wide.
What does this mean to you?
When there is an external ladder and the distance to the lower level is 4’ or more, fall protection must be used. If a personal fall arrest or restraint system is used nothing else is required. If the perimeter is enclosed with the guardrail, a self-closing gate is required due to the 19” or greater gap the ladder creates in the perimeter. If neither is used then a LadderGuard with a self-closing gate is required. LadderGuard with a self-closing gate being 6’ in length forces the worker beyond the 6’ zone near the leading edge and protects them when within this 6’ zone to access the ladder.
Garlock Safety Solutions:
LadderGuard™Features and Benefits
• Provides safe passage from the ladder onto the roof.
• Protects the worker from the leading edge until they are beyond the 6’ work zone.
• Standard ladder connectors join the ladder to the LadderGuard rails.
EasyFit™ GateFeatures and Benefits
• Spring-loaded self-closing gate fits openings from 17-48” wide.
• Universal system mounts to 1- 2” round or square posts and can be wall-mounted.
• Prevent access from hazards by adding a locking hasp.