Stairways and Ladders in Construction
65 flashcards covering Stairways and Ladders in Construction for the OSHA OSHA 10/30 Construction section.
Stairways and ladders in construction focus on the safe design, use, and maintenance of these structures to prevent falls, which are a leading cause of workplace injuries. This topic is defined by OSHA's regulations in 29 CFR 1926 Subparts X (Ladders) and M (Fall Protection), as part of the OSHA Outreach Training for Construction and General Industry.
On OSHA 10/30 Construction exams, questions typically involve multiple-choice scenarios testing knowledge of proper ladder setup, inspection checklists, and weight capacity limits. A common trap is overlooking the difference between Type I and Type II ladders, leading to misuse in high-risk situations.
Always double-check that ladders are placed at the correct 75-degree angle to avoid slips.
Terms (65)
- 01
What is the definition of a portable ladder under OSHA construction standards?
A portable ladder is a ladder that can readily be moved or carried, typically having flat steps or rungs (29 CFR 1926.1050).
- 02
Under 29 CFR 1926.1052, what must be provided for temporary stairways in construction?
Handrails and stair rail systems must be provided and installed on all stairways with four or more risers (29 CFR 1926.1052).
- 03
How must ladders be positioned to prevent slipping in construction work?
Ladders must be secured at the top or bottom to prevent accidental displacement, and bases must be placed on a secure footing (29 CFR 1926.1053).
- 04
What is required when using ladders near electrical hazards in construction?
Ladders must not be made of metal if used where they could contact electrical conductors, to avoid electrocution risks (29 CFR 1926.1053).
- 05
Under 29 CFR 1926.1051, what general safety training is needed for ladder use?
Employers must provide training so that each employee recognizes hazards related to ladders and understands procedures to minimize them (29 CFR 1926.1060).
- 06
What is the requirement for inspecting ladders before use in construction?
Ladders must be inspected for visible defects such as broken or missing parts before each use (29 CFR 1926.1053).
- 07
How often must employees be trained on stairway and ladder safety in construction?
Training must be provided when an employee is first assigned to a job involving stairways or ladders, and whenever a new hazard is introduced (29 CFR 1926.1060).
- 08
What is prohibited when using a stepladder in construction?
Employees shall not use the top cap or the top two steps of a stepladder as a step (29 CFR 1926.1053).
- 09
Under 29 CFR 1926.1053, what must be done with damaged ladders?
Ladders with structural defects must be tagged with 'Do Not Use' or similar language and removed from service (29 CFR 1926.1053).
- 10
What general requirements apply to all stairways in construction sites?
Stairways must be free of hazardous projections and have uniform riser heights and tread depths (29 CFR 1926.1052).
- 11
How must fixed ladders be equipped if they exceed a certain height?
Fixed ladders must have cages, wells, or a ladder safety system if they are over 24 feet high, to provide fall protection (29 CFR 1926.1053).
- 12
What is the first step when setting up a portable ladder on a construction site?
Ensure the ladder is placed on a stable and slip-resistant surface before climbing (29 CFR 1926.1053).
- 13
A worker notices a ladder is slippery due to weather. What should they do?
The worker should not use the ladder and must report it for inspection or replacement to ensure safety (29 CFR 1926.1053).
- 14
Under 29 CFR 1926.1052, what features are required for stairway platforms?
Stairway platforms must be at least the width of the stairway and equipped with standard railings (29 CFR 1926.1052).
- 15
What is needed to maintain three-point contact when climbing ladders?
The climber must have two hands and one foot, or two feet and one hand, in contact with the ladder at all times (29 CFR 1926.1053).
- 16
How must ladders be stored to prevent damage in construction areas?
Ladders must be stored in a location where they are not exposed to the elements or physical damage (29 CFR 1926.1053).
- 17
What training elements must cover ladder hazards in construction?
Training must include the nature of hazards, correct procedures for using ladders, and the proper construction of ladders (29 CFR 1926.1060).
- 18
A construction worker is assigned to use a fixed ladder. What must be verified first?
Verify that the ladder has appropriate fall protection if it exceeds the specified height, as per regulations (29 CFR 1926.1053).
- 19
Under 29 CFR 1926.1051, what applies to the design of stairways?
Stairways must be designed, constructed, and maintained to support at least five times the maximum intended load (29 CFR 1926.1052).
- 20
What is the requirement for ladder rungs and steps in construction?
Rungs and steps must be parallel, level, and uniformly spaced within specified tolerances (29 CFR 1926.1053).
- 21
How often should ladder safety training be retrained for construction workers?
Retraining is required when an employee demonstrates unsafe use or when workplace changes introduce new hazards (29 CFR 1926.1060).
- 22
What must be done before repairing a damaged ladder on site?
The ladder must be removed from service until repairs are made by a qualified person (29 CFR 1926.1053).
- 23
A worker slips on a stairway without handrails. What regulation applies?
Stairways must have handrails to prevent such incidents, as required under construction safety standards (29 CFR 1926.1052).
- 24
Under 29 CFR 1926.1053, what secures a ladder against movement?
Ladders must be tied, blocked, or otherwise secured to prevent displacement (29 CFR 1926.1053).
- 25
What is the general rule for carrying tools while climbing ladders?
Tools should be carried in a way that allows three-point contact, such as using a tool belt (29 CFR 1926.1053).
- 26
How must spiral stairways be constructed in construction?
Spiral stairways must meet the same general requirements as other stairways, including handrails (29 CFR 1926.1052).
- 27
What is required if a ladder is used for access to a higher level?
The ladder must extend at least 3 feet above the upper landing surface to provide a secure handhold (29 CFR 1926.1053).
- 28
Before starting work on a stairway, what must the supervisor check?
Ensure that the stairway is properly illuminated and free of obstructions (29 CFR 1926.1052).
- 29
A construction site has uneven stairway treads. What action is needed?
The stairways must be repaired to have uniform tread depths before use (29 CFR 1926.1052).
- 30
Under 29 CFR 1926.1060, who must conduct ladder training?
Training must be conducted by a competent person qualified in hazard recognition and ladder use (29 CFR 1926.1060).
- 31
What is the minimum width required for construction stairways?
Stairways must be at least 18 inches wide between stringers (29 CFR 1926.1052).
- 32
How must employees be protected from falling objects near ladders?
Toeboards or screens must be installed where tools or materials could fall (29 CFR 1926.1053).
- 33
What is the procedure for tagging a defective ladder?
Immediately tag it with a warning and remove it from the work area (29 CFR 1926.1053).
- 34
A worker is using a ladder in a windy area. What precaution is needed?
Secure the ladder firmly to prevent tipping due to environmental conditions (29 CFR 1926.1053).
- 35
Under 29 CFR 1926.1052, what protects against falls on stairways?
Standard railings and toeboards must be provided on open sides of stairways (29 CFR 1926.1052).
- 36
What general maintenance is required for ladders in use?
Ladders must be maintained in good condition, free of splinters and sharp edges (29 CFR 1926.1053).
- 37
How often must stairway conditions be checked during construction?
Stairways must be inspected regularly to ensure they remain safe (29 CFR 1926.1052).
- 38
What is the first response if a ladder fails during use?
Stop use immediately and report the failure for inspection (29 CFR 1926.1053).
- 39
Under 29 CFR 1926.1053, what applies to ladder angles?
Portable ladders must be used at the proper angle as specified in the standard (29 CFR 1926.1053).
- 40
What training must cover for workers using fixed ladders?
The training must include the use of any required fall protection systems (29 CFR 1926.1060).
- 41
A stairway lacks uniform riser heights. What must be done?
Adjust the risers to be uniform to meet safety standards (29 CFR 1926.1052).
- 42
How must ladders be labeled for safe use?
Ladders must be marked with identification and capacity ratings (29 CFR 1926.1053).
- 43
What is required for the bottom of a ladder setup?
The bottom must be placed on a firm, level surface (29 CFR 1926.1053).
- 44
Under 29 CFR 1926.1051, what ensures stairway stability?
Stairways must be capable of carrying the anticipated loads (29 CFR 1926.1052).
- 45
What procedure follows a ladder inspection finding defects?
Remove the ladder from service until defects are corrected (29 CFR 1926.1053).
- 46
A worker must access a roof via ladder. What safety step is first?
Ensure the ladder is properly secured and extends beyond the landing (29 CFR 1926.1053).
- 47
What is the requirement for handrails on construction stairways?
Handrails must be between 30 and 37 inches high (29 CFR 1926.1052).
- 48
How must ladders be transported on construction sites?
Ladders must be carried in a way that avoids damage and ensures control (29 CFR 1926.1053).
- 49
Under 29 CFR 1926.1060, what records are needed for training?
Certification of training must be maintained for each employee (29 CFR 1926.1060).
- 50
What is prohibited on ladder side rails?
Tying ladders together to make longer sections is not allowed (29 CFR 1926.1053).
- 51
Before climbing, what must a worker check on a ladder?
Check that the ladder is stable and free of defects (29 CFR 1926.1053).
- 52
A construction site has a slippery stairway. What action is required?
Apply anti-slip measures or restrict use until corrected (29 CFR 1926.1052).
- 53
What general rule applies to ladder placement near doors?
Ladders must not be placed in front of doors unless the door is blocked open and guarded (29 CFR 1926.1053).
- 54
How must fixed ladders be accessed?
They must provide safe access without requiring unnatural body positions (29 CFR 1926.1053).
- 55
Under 29 CFR 1926.1052, what protects stairway edges?
Stairways must have nosings or equivalent to provide proper footing (29 CFR 1926.1052).
- 56
What is the key requirement for ladder footings?
Footings must be solid and stable to prevent shifting (29 CFR 1926.1053).
- 57
What training must address for stairway hazards?
The nature of fall hazards and proper use of stairways (29 CFR 1926.1060).
- 58
A ladder is found with loose rungs. What should the worker do?
Tag it as unsafe and remove it from use immediately (29 CFR 1926.1053).
- 59
How must employees exit ladders safely?
Face the ladder and maintain three-point contact while descending (29 CFR 1926.1053).
- 60
Under 29 CFR 1926.1053, what ensures ladder durability?
Ladders must be constructed of suitable materials to withstand the work environment (29 CFR 1926.1053).
- 61
What is required for ladder extensions in construction?
Extensions must overlap sufficiently to provide stability (29 CFR 1926.1053).
- 62
Before using a stairway in construction, what must be ensured?
That it is clear of debris and properly lit (29 CFR 1926.1052).
- 63
What general safety measure applies to all ladders?
They must be used only for their designed purpose (29 CFR 1926.1053).
- 64
How must ladder safety devices be maintained?
They must be inspected regularly and kept in good working order (29 CFR 1926.1053).
- 65
A worker reports a stairway railing issue. What follows?
The railing must be repaired before the stairway is used (29 CFR 1926.1052).