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SAFE ACCESS

A GUIDE TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF THE FACTORIES AND COMMERCIAL PREMISES ACT 1981Published by the Department of Labour New Zealand

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IMPORTANT NOTE: The information in this booklet has not been updated in any way since 1992, and in many cases refers to legislation and standards that have been superseded.

Published by the Occupational Safety & Health Service Department of Labour Wellington New Zealand First edition 1987 Revised edition: 1992 This pdf created March 2003 ISBN 0-477-03503-05

ARCHIVECONTENTS

Introduction ------------------------------------------------------------------------ 1 Application ------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1 1. LEGAL REQUIREMENTS ------------------------------------------------- 1 2. TYPES OF PERMANENT AND PORTABLE LADDERS --------- 2 3. RECOMMENDED LIMITS OF SLOPE -------------------------------- 2 4. RAMPS ------------------------------------------------------------------------- 3 4.1 General ------------------------------------------------------------------------ 3 4.2 Degree of Slope ------------------------------------------------------------- 3 4.3 Ramp Construction -------------------------------------------------------- 4 4.4 Ramp Surfaces -------------------------------------------------------------- 5 4.5 Ramp Landings ------------------------------------------------------------- 5 5. STAIRWAYS ------------------------------------------------------------------- 6 5.1 General ------------------------------------------------------------------------ 6 5.2 Stair Construction ---------------------------------------------------------- 6 5.3 Railings and Toeboards --------------------------------------------------- 8 5.4 Service Stairs ---------------------------------------------------------------- 8 5.5 Spiral Stairways ------------------------------------------------------------- 8 5.6 Winding Stairways ---------------------------------------------------------- 9 6. WALKWAYS ------------------------------------------------------------------- 9 6.1 General ------------------------------------------------------------------------ 9 6.2 Walkway Construction ----------------------------------------------------- 9 6.3 Examples of Walkway Design ----------------------------------------- 10 7. FIXED LADDERS ---------------------------------------------------------- 12 7.1 General ---------------------------------------------------------------------- 12 7.2 Fixed Ladder Construction and Installation ------------------------ 13 7.3 Types of Fixed Ladders ------------------------------------------------- 13 7.4 Individual Rung Ladders ------------------------------------------------ 14 7.5 Step or Tread Ladders --------------------------------------------------- 15 7.6 Rung Ladders ------------------------------------------------------------- 16 7.7 Reverse Climbing Ladders --------------------------------------------- 17 7.8 Ladder Wells --------------------------------------------------------------- 18 7.9 Chimney Ladders --------------------------------------------------------- 18 7.10 Ladder Enclosure --------------------------------------------------------- 9 7.11 Safety Hints with Ladders --------------------------------------------- 21 7.12 Safety Devices ----------------------------------------------------------- 21

ARCHIVE8. PLATFORMS AND LANDINGS ---------------------------------------8.1 General ---------------------------------------------------------------------8.2 Stairways and Ramps --------------------------------------------------8.3 Ladders --------------------------------------------------------------------8.4 Intermediate Landings -------------------------------------------------8.5 Guardrails -----------------------------------------------------------------9. HANDRAILS, GUARDRAILS AND TOEBOARDS ---------------9.1 General ---------------------------------------------------------------------9.2 Construction of Guardrails --------------------------------------------9.3 Toeboards -----------------------------------------------------------------10. PORTABLE LADDERS ------------------------------------------------10.1 General -------------------------------------------------------------------10.2 Construction (New Zealand Standards) --------------------------10.3 Maintenance and Safety Inspections -----------------------------10.4 Safe Use of Portable Ladders --------------------------------------10.5 Work From a Ladder --------------------------------------------------10.6 Misuse of Ladders -----------------------------------------------------10.7 Storage -------------------------------------------------------------------11. FACTORIES AND COMMERCIAL PREMISES ACT 1981 ---12. OTHER PUBLICATIONS ----------------------------------------------. 22 22 22 23 25 25 25 25 26 26 27 27 27 27 28 28 28 28 29 31

ARCHIVEINTRODUCTIONThis booklet has been produced by the Department of Labour as part of its continuing drive to reduce the incidence and severity of industrial accidents. It is a general guide to the minimum standards acceptable for fixed and portable ladders, steps, stairs and ramps in work areas. Compliance with this booklet will meet the requirements of the Factories and Commercial Premises Act 1981. However, it is not a substitute for that Act or for any other legislation or local authority bylaws. Nor is it a substitute for any standard which may be issued by the Standards Association of New Zealand. Before beginning any new construction, or major alteration, you should contact your local authority or nearest district office of the Department of Labour.

APPLICATIONThe guidelines set out in this booklet do not apply to fire egress required in terms of NZSS 1900 and local body bylaws. Where ramps, stairways, walkways, ladders, platforms, or landings are intended as escapeways from existing buildings, construction details are set out in NZSS 1900, chapter 5.

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LEGAL REQUIREMENTSSections 27, 28 and 30 of the Factories and Commercial Premises Act 1981 set out the requirements for safe means of access and these are reproduced on pages 29 and 30. The essence of this legislation is that safe means of access be provided to all places of work.1

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2 32

TYPES OF PERMANENT AND PORTABLE ACCESSThe types of permanent and portable access which are dealt with in this publication are ramps, stairways, walkways, fixed ladders, portable ladders including single, extension step, dual purpose and special purpose ladders, and associated landings and platforms.

RECOMMENDED LIMITS OF SLOPE RAMPSSet out in fig. 1 are the recommended limits of slope for ramps, stairways and fixed ladders. The chart shows that certain angles between those preferred for ramps, stairs and ladders are unsafe. When deciding the type of access most suited to a particular workplace, these unsafe angles should be avoided.

ARCHIVEFig.1

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RAMPSRamps are better than stairs or ladders for small changes of level, and safer because people do not have to place their feet so accurately. In addition ramps can be used by barrows, hand trucks and other means of transporting goods.

GENERAL

2 DEGREE OF SLOPEIn determining the slope of ramps the risk of slipping has to be considered. Slipperiness is decided by the nature and condition of the ramp surface and the weight of the load to be moved or carried.

In general the maximum slope should be limited to: (a) For reasonably slip-resistant surfacessubject to wetting1 in 10.O

Angle 53/41 10

Fig. 2

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ARCHIVE(b) For reasonably slip-resistant surfacesusually dry1 in 8.Angle 7o 1 8 Fig. 3

(c) On occasions slopes greater than 1 Angle 20o 1 in 8 may be required for special purposes such as following an Fig. 4 2.7 inclined conveyor. In these instances the slope should never exceed 1 in Where ramps steeper than 1 in 8 are 2.7. installed they should generally only be used as walkways and not for conveying materials by hand trucks etc. These ramps need additional cleats placed at a suitable distance apart to allow easy walking. TABLE 1 CLEAT SPACING Recommended spacing mm No load If load is carried carried 360 330 300 280 460 430 400 380

Slope of ramp 1.6 1.5 1.4 1.3

3 RAMP CONSTRUCTIONThe width of a ramp should allow freedom of movement for the number of people and any other loads likely to pass over it at any one time. If ramps form part of a passage or stairway they should never be narrower than the passage or stairway.

A head clearance of at least 2.1 m is required. Ramps should be constructed so as to be capable of supporting the maximum weight to be carried, plus a safety factor. It is usual for external ramps to be designed to carry a live load of not less than 5 kPa (approx. 500 kg/m2). Where necessary the open sides of ramps should have guardrails fitted (complying with the dimensions given on p. 26 of this booklet).

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ARCHIVE4 RAMP SURFACESThese should be slip-proof and may consist of: (a) Cement surfaces finished with a wood float or swept with a stiff broom while setting. This will expose the particles of sand and provide a rough surface which will, however, wear smooth with use. The same treatment on a granolithic surface (i.e. cement with granite, bluestone, or similar aggregate) will give more lasting results and, if desired, a greater degree of roughness. Proprietary abrasive grits are also available for adding to the surface mix to increase friction and reduce wear. Additional slip resistance may be provided by a succession of transverse grooves tooled into the surface. (b) Wood when in a clean, dry, unpolished condition is reasonably slip resistant. Undressed timber is preferable to dressed timber because of its greater slip-resistance when wet. When wooden decking is used the planks should not overlap. (c) Asphalt has good slip-resisting properties when suitable aggregate is included in the surface. (d) Bituminous felt (of the special grades made for flooring) if securely stuck to the ramp surface with a suitable adhesive, will provide good slip resistance. It has a reasonable life under foot traffic but is generally unsuitable for hand trucks. (e) Metals such as steel or cast iron, unless in the form of a close mesh grid, are not satisfactory for use by people who wear nailed boots. Checkerplate and other figured surfaces soon lose their pattern and become slippery. Where trucks with steel tyred wheels are used, wheel tracks of steel plate set flush with the ramp surface may be provided to prevent rapid wear, but the space between the tracks should be as slip-resistant as possible to ensure safe footing. NOTE: Coatings are available for application to ramp surfaces that have become slippery but still remain materially sound. They are easy to apply to any clean, dry surface, remain slip-resistant under most conditions, and repair is simple. There are two general types: special liquid brush-on preparations containing an abrasive grit (or to which a grit can be added); and resin-bonded abrasive-coated fabric with an adhesive backing which becomes firmly attached to the ramp on the application of light pressure. The fabric may be used to cover the whole surface, but it is more economical and quite satisfactory to apply it in transverse strips about 50 mm apart.

5 RAMP LANDINGSA level landing should be provided where a ramp leads to a doorway or cross aisles. Where a ramp changes direction there should be a landing at least equal in width and length to the width of the ramp.

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ARCHIVESTAIRWAYSGENERALWhere frequent movement between floors or levels is required, stairways are essential. They are the most common means of access and are generally the most suitable. To provide for easy movement stairways should be designed so that: (a) The slope is neither too steep nor too gradual. If the slope is excessive, additional effort is required from the person climbing. If the slope is too gradual, the feet tend to strike against the edge of the step and more effort can be required to climb or descend than at an appropriate angle; (b) Treads (including the edge or nose) are sufficiently wide for the ball of the foot to be placed on them when descending without the back of the leg or heel coming in contact with the step above or the face of a solid riser; (c) The dimensions of steps are properly related to the slope and average walking pace; (d) All steps in the stairs are standard so as to permit a constant rhythm of walking.

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2 STAIR CONSTRUCTION Fixedstairways should be correctly designed and constructed of sound materials. They should be capable of carrying the maximum anticipated load, and in addition must have a safety factor. A stairway should be of sufficient strength to sustain safely a live load of not less than 5 kPa (500 kg/m2) with a safety factor of 4 (or able to stand 20 kPa or 2 tonne/m2 (approx) as an extreme). Where stairs are outdoors it is desirable that the treads be of the open grating type.

the horizontal where stairs are used regularly and between 35o and 50o where stairs are only required for occasional use.

22 WIDTH OF STAIRSThe stair width required depends on the volume of traffic carried. However, for stairways carrying little traffic the following dimensions are considered to be satisfactory: (a) For one person a minimum width, when open stairway, of 685 mm; (b) For one person a minimum width, when walled sides, of 815 mm; (c) For two persons to pass, a minimum width of 1 m. NOTE: Where a stairway forms part of a buildings evacuation system its width should conform to local body bylaws or to NZSS 1900, chapter 5.

21 ANGLE OF SLOPEThis should be between 30 and 35 to

ARCHIVE23 HEAD CLEARANCE Thereshould be a minimum height of 2.1 m measured vertically from the stair nose. (See fig. 5.) Long flights of stairs should be broken by landings or intermediate platforms with no more than a vertical distance of 4 m between floors or landings.Fig.5

24 TREADS AND RISERS Any uniformcombination of tread/rise dimensions may be used that will result in a stairway at an angle to the horizontal within the range stated.

TABLE 2TREADRISE DIMENSIONSAngle to horizontal Tread (in mm) Rise (in mm)

30o 35 .............................................................. 280 32o 08 .............................................................. 275 33o 41 .............................................................. 270 35o 16 .............................................................. 260 36o 52 .............................................................. 255 38o 29 .............................................................. 250 40o 08 .............................................................. 245 41o 44 .............................................................. 240 43o 22 .............................................................. 230 45o 00 .............................................................. 220 46o 38 .............................................................. 215 28o 16 .............................................................. 205 49o 54 .............................................................. 200

165 170 180 185 195 200 205 210 215 220 230 235 240

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ARCHIVEOpen risers should be used for treads narrower than 230 mm. A slip-resistant and durable tread surface is essential for safety and it is preferable to build these surfaces in during construction. However, existing surfaces in reasonable order can be made slip-resistant by fitting masonry, rubber, abrasive compound, or metal inlays. Each tread and top landing of a stairway, where fixed risers are used, should have a nosing extending at least 25 mm beyond the face of the lower riser. Nosings should have an even leading edge and be of non-slip material or finish. Welded bar or metal grating treads without nosings are acceptable providing the leading edge can be readily identified by people using the stairway, and the tread is serrated, or of a definite non-slip design. Openings in the treads should be small enough to prevent articles such as spanners, files, etc., from falling through. Riser height and tread width should be uniform throughout any flight of stairs, including any foundation structure used as one or more treads of the stairway. be fitted and where possible it should be on the right hand side when descending. Stairways more than 1.07 m wide should be provided with handrails on both sides and if the width exceeds 1.9 m an intermediate handrail should be provided at the centre of the stairway. A bottom rail or toeboard, depending on the purpose the stairway is used for, should also be provided on the open side(s) only. (For more detailed specifications for handrails, railings, and toeboards, see pages 25 and 26.)

4 SERVICE STAIRS Service stairways arein a special category because they are usually placed in restricted areas and are infrequently used. They are generally designed to give access to boilers in engine rooms or to service platforms around machines. The angle of slope for such stairs should not exceed 50 (see fig. 1) and the width should not be less than 560 mm, with the tread at least 150 mm wide. Winding or spiral stairways are not recommended as serviceways.

3 MAILINGS AND TOEBOARDS Stairwayshaving more than 4 risers, and all elevated open stairways and landings, should be provided with handrails, midrails, and bottom rails or toeboards on the open sides. On enclosed stairways 1.07 m or less in width at least one handrail should8

5 SPIRAL STAIRWAYS Spiralstairways should be limited to special circumstances or where it is not possible or practical to provide a conventional stairway. If a spiral stairway is used, durable anti-slip treads are recommended, and the variation in the tread width should be

ARCHIVEkept to a minimum. The minimum width of the tread should be 130 mm. However, they should not be attached to circular containers which have a diameter less than 1.5 m. The general construction of tug Sl stairways should comply with the details of stairways given in this section.

6 WINDING STAIRWAYS These arepreferable to ladders to gain access to the top of tanks, silos, and similar round structures.

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WALKWAYSGENERALWalkways provide a convenient means of movement above ground level for maintenance and other purposes. They may also serve as working platforms and are particularly suitable where a number of points on the same level must be reached from time to time. Fixed ladders or stairways should be provided to give access to walkways

2 WALKWAY CONSTRUCTION Theconstruction of walkways varies according to the purpose for which they are used. However, they should all: (a) be constructed to bear the maximum foreseeable weight to be carried plus a safety factor of 4. NOTE: NZSS 1900, chapter 5, specifies that any walkway used as a means of egress shall be constructed of approved durable materials capable of carrying a live

load of not less than 4 kPa (approx 400 kg/m2). (b) Be securely fixed to the main structure. (c) Be provided with even, securely fixed decking which is free from tripping, slipping and other hazards. NOTE: Where wooden decking is fitted, undressed timber should be used. Where metal decking is used the open grid type is preferable, but care must be taken to ensure that the perforations in the grid are small enough to prevent tools, etc., from passing through.9

ARCHIVE(d) If the walkway is to be used as a working platform, or buckets or other objects are to be carried, the minimum width should be 610 mm. Where a walkway is to be used as a working platform it should be level, but if used solely as a walkway it may have a slope of not more than 7 (1 in 8). However, it is safest, where possible, to have horizontal runs connected at intervals by stairs. On sloping roofs not exceeding 20 pitch, cleated walkways or walkways having a similar surface (e.g. as suitably designed expanded metal) are acceptable. Where the pitch exceeds 20 steps should be used. Clear headroom of 2.1 m is required over all walkways. However, isolated obstructions such as pipes, roof trusses, etc., which can be easily passed by stooping or stepping over, may be permitted. All obstructions should be clearly indicated by a notice or by painting to make them obvious. Where walkways cross hazardous locations or are over 2 m above ground level they should be fitted on all open sides with standard railings and toeboards (fig. 6) complying with the specification set out on page 26. In some instances it is not necessary, or it is impracticable, to place railings on all open sides. This could apply where a walkway is used to cross a roof, where a wall or other type of barrier forms one side of the walkway, or where a walkway is used as a service platform. If the walkway is not more than 2 m above the ground, and the working area beneath is safe, then in the above instances a handrail is required on one side only (figs. 7, 8 and 9).10

3 EXAMPLES OF WALKWAY DESIGN The walkway designshown in fig. 6 should be used over a drop of 2 m or more.

min Fig. 6

The walkway design shown in fig. 7 is suitable to cross roofs where: (a) Strength of roof is insufficient to support a person; (b) The pitch exceeds 7; (c) The drop exceeds 2 m; or (d) Dangerous or hazardous conditions exist below.

ARCHIVEFig. 7

Fig. 8 shows a design suitable for climbing a roof with a pitch of between 7 and 20. If placed on the edge, or within 610 mm of the edge of the roof, a 150 mm toeboard should be fitted.

Fig. 8

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ARCHIVEWhere a wall or other similar structure exists the design shown in fig. 9 is acceptable.

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FIXED LADDERS

Fig. 9

GENERAL Ladders are often permanently attached to astructure, building, or equipment. They may be the only means of access to roofs, pits, silos, towers, chimneys, tanks, elevated tanks, and other difficult access areas where installation of stairs is not feasible. A fixed ladder may consist of individual rungs, each of which is attached to the structure, or steps or rungs in siderails (or stiles) of wood or metal and attached in full length sections to the structure. The major hazard in the use of fixed ladders is falls. Other hazards include splinters and slivers from rungs or railings, and slips resulting in sprains, strains and bruises. The problems associated with fixed ladders can be considerably reduced, if not eliminated, by proper design, construction, installation, maintenance, and the use of safety devices.

ARCHIVEAlthough ladders occupy little space, they are generally not suitable for access to regular working areas, or where articles have to be carried. Only one person should use a ladder at a time.

2 FIXED LADDER CONSTRUCTION AND INSTALLATION Thefollowing general points should be observed with the construction of fixed ladders: All ladders should be made of sound materials suitable for the purpose for which the ladder is to be used. Metal is preferable to wood. Materials used for ladders installed in areas in which corrosive conditions may exist require careful consideration. This also applies to fixing brackets and the method of attachment. In most circumstances dissimilar metals should not be used together (e.g. an aluminium ladder on a steel tank). Where dissimilar metals are used the joints should be protected from electrolytic action. Fixed ladders should be permanently fastened at the top, bottom and intermediate points. All ladders, other than the individual rung type, should have parallel sides or stiles and, as these may be used as a climbing aid, they should afford an adequate gripping surface, free from sharp edges, splinters or burrs.

A fixed ladder should never be installed in such a position that persons working or walking beneath are in danger when it is being climbed. All ladders should be adequately lit. Ladders should not be installed near existing electrical installations and new electrical installations should not be sited near fixed ladders. Where the area at the base of the ladder is likely to be muddy or greasy some means should be provided for cleaning the soles of the workers boots before he or she commences climbing. This may be boot scrapers, or material fixed to the bottom rungs which will absorb the moisture and grease. Where fixed ladders are accessible to the public, the bottom 2.1 m should be protected by fencing, locked gates, or the section made portable so that the public cannot gain access to the ladder.

3 TYPES OF FIXED LADDERS1. Individual rung (fig. 10). 2. Ladders with steps or treads (figs. 11 and 12).

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ARCHIVE3. Rung-type ladders (figs. 13-16). 4. Reverse climbing ladders (fig. 17). A general rule is that ladders with steps or reads should be used between the angles of 60 to 70 to the horizontal, with the preferred range being 65 to 70. Rung-type ladders, on the other hand, should be used between the angles of 70 and 90 to the horizontal, with the preferred angle being 75 to 90. These angles are measured on the opposite side of the ladder from the climbing side. or rusting. To increase rung life and also afford a greater gripping area, the diameter of the rungs should be at least 25 mm. The rungs should be shaped so that the climbers feet are prevented from slipping off the sides. The following dimensions should be followed when designing individual rung ladders: Distance between rungs not greater than 300 mm. Diameter of rungs 25 mm. Width of rungs not less than 400 mm. A climbing clearance each side of a centre line down the rungs of at least 300 mm. Clearance on climbing side between rungs and any obstruction behind climber of at least 760 mm. Toe clearance measured from inside of rung of at least 150 mm. However, where possible provision should be made for a clearance of 200 mm.

4 INDIVIDUAL RUNG LADDERS These ladders,constructed of metal, are used for vertical climbing and are often fitted in confined spaces such as pits or wells or to gain access to landings of limited height. They are also often located in areas where the atmosphere can cause corrosion and rusting. In these circumstances the rungs should be painted or treated to resist corrosion

Fig.10

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ARCHIVE5 STEP OR TREAD LADDERS These laddersshould be used between the angles of 60 and 70 to the horizontal. The preferred range is between 65 and 70. The length of the ladder section between landings should not exceed 6 m. Ladder sections should be so placed that if a person falls, the lower landing platform or ladder section will prevent further descent. The steps or treads should be slipresistant and durable. They may consist of tread plate, mesh, slottedFig 11

metal, or groups of bars. The openings in the steps should be small enough to prevent tools, etc., from falling through. In wet conditions or outside, open-type, non-rusting steps are recommended. Handrails should be provided on both sides of the ladder and carried to at least 1 m above the landing. The distance from the face of the ladder should be 250 mm for a 60 slope, decreasing to 150 mm for a 70 slope. Handrails should not be less than 535 mm or more than 760 mm apart.

Fig.12

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ARCHIVE6 RUNG LADDERSThe angles at which these ladders should be used are between 70 and 90 to the horizontal with the preferred range being 75 to 90. Landing platforms should be provided no more than 9 m apart. This distance may be increased for ladders fixed to chimney stacks or where, because of the type of structure, provision of platforms is impracticable. Where vertical ladders are used they should be offset (see fig. 13). Where they are on an angle, the landings and ladder sections should be so placed that the lower sections would prevent further descent of a person in case of a fall. All ladders above 6 m in height should be fitted with either cage guards or hoops and straps (fig. 14). Stiles should extend 1 m above the landing. Where they terminate on top of a structure they should be angled forward over the structure. To allow a person to pass between the stiles, they should be spaced at least 610 mm apart above the landing level (fig. 15). The following minimum dimensions should be used for rung ladders: Diameter of rungs, 20 mm. Internal width, 400 mm. Toe clearance behind the rung of the ladder, 150 mm.Fig. 13

Depending on the slope of the rung ladder the maximum rise between steps should not exceed 250 mm at 70 to 300 mm at 90 (vertical).16

Fig. 14

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Fig. 15

Fig. 16

7 REVERSE CLIMBING LADDERS These ladders areonly suitable for vertical climbing. The design is not common but it has one important feature in that it has an inbuilt safety cage. The ladder is fixed a distance of 760 mm away from the stack or structure and the person climbs up between the ladder and the side of the structure or stack. General construction details should comply with those shown in fig. 17. When steel guard bars are fixed (not more than 230 mm apart) as shown, an effective safety cage is formed.

A reverse climbing ladder may obstruct the low level or ground level working area around the structure or stack and a standard type of ladder may need to be provided to a landing. Where a rung ladder is used, the platform should be no more than 9 m above the ground and where a step ladder is used not more than 6 m. Landing platforms should be provided not more than 9 m apart except where the ladder is used on a chimney stack or other structure where, because of its size, a landing platform cannot be built.17

ARCHIVEFig. 17

8 LADDER WELLSLadder wells should have a width clearance of at least 380 mm measured each way from the centre line of the ladder. Where the walls of the well are smooth, a minimum clearance of 760 mm from the ladder rungs to the wall on the climbing side is recommended. If obstructions exist, they must be taken into account in determining clearance. There should be a toe clearance behind the ladder of at least 150 mm (preferably 200 mm).

Where possible though, the standards suggested for rung ladders should be followed, particularly in respect of clearances. If there is difficulty in fixing hoops and straps or cage guards for ladder enclosure the fitting of ladder safety devices should be considered. These are discussed on pages 21 and 22. Ladders fixed to chimneys should be of permanent construction and securely fastened. Materials should be carefully chosen as fumes and smoke can cause corrosion. Regular checks should be made of bolts and brackets.

9 CHIMNEY LADDERS The type ofchimney and its circumference may limit conformity with accepted standards.18

ARCHIVE10 LADDER ENCLOSURES All rungladders rising more than 6 m above ground level, and all rung ladders rising from any landing or platform, should be fitted with mild steel safety hoops and straps (see figs. 18-20).

Fig.18

In the case of rung ladders rising from ground level, the lowest hoop should be fitted to the stiles at a height of 2.5 m. The highest hoop should be in line with any guardrail on the upper landing or platform, not less than 1 m above the level of the platform. Hoops should be spaced along the stiles at 1 m centres. All rung ladders rising from landings or platforms are to be fitted with hoops. The lowest hoop should be fitted so that no gap of more than 1 m is left between it and any guardrail. It is recommended that the lowest hoop be fitted to the stiles 2 m above the level of the landing or platform, so that it is at least 1 m above any

guardrail. However, design and installation of the lowest hoop should allow the ladder to be approached and climbed in a normal upright posture. All hoops and straps should be at least 50 mm X 8 mm. At least three straps should be fitted internally to brace the hoops, one at the centre back of the hoops, and the others placed between it and the ladder stiles. Hoops and straps should be fixed by riveting, bolting or welding. If bolts or rivets are used they should be countersunk, or of the cuphead type. Rivets and bolts should be inserted from the inside of the strap or hoop19

ARCHIVEand should not be less than 15 mm in diameter. The assembly of hoops and straps should be suitably braced unless fastened to the stiles by double riveting, bolting or welding.

Fig. 19

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ARCHIVEFig. 20

5.

Never carry handtools or materials while climbing. Raise or lower m these by handline. Do not jump from a ladder. Check footing before alighting. Wear footwear with heels.

6. 7. 8.

When deciding whether a ladder is safe, consider: (a) The height of the ladder; (b) The degree of slope; (c) Its general construction and condition; (d) The amount of use; (e) Its location, i.e. whether fitted inside, outside, above, beside machinery or otherwise. As a general rule, outdoor ladders are more hazardousa person may be blown off by wind, the rungs or steps may be slippery through rain or frost, and foreign deposits may build up on them.

11 SAFETY HINTS WITH LADDERS1. 2. Check ladders periodically for defects and cleanliness. When climbing, face the ladder and use both hands to firmly grip the rungs or styles. Place each foot firmly on the rung before transferring the weight of the body to that foot. Climb deliberately, without haste. Never run up or down a ladder, and never slide down a ladder.

3.

12 SAFETY DEVICESThese devices may use either a cable anchored on either side of the ladder or a single cable or carrier rail attached to the centre of the ladder. The climber wears a21

4.

ARCHIVEharness which is attached to a sliding sleeve or collar fitted to the rail or cable(s). At the normal speed of climbing or descent the device slides up and down without hindrance. However, if the climber falls the sudden movement of the sliding device activates an inbuilt brake that automatically locks and stops the fall. The cable(s) or rail should be of a material that is rust-free. Rung grippers and hooks are another type of safety device, but they should not be used without ladder enclosures or platforms. The grippers are hand-held and attached by straps to a safety harness worn by the climber. They latch on to the ladder rungs and as the climber ascends the grips are released and moved from rung to rung. If hands are removed the grippers stay in position. Hooks, which are fitted to a safety harness and placed on the rungs as the climber ascends the ladder, may also be used. The use of these devices should be limited to places where only occasional access is required, e.g. water tanks, towers or chimneys. When they are used, cage guards, hoops, straps or landing platforms may not be necessary.

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PLATFORMS AND LANDINGSPlatforms and landings provide rest areas on stairways and ramps. They also form commencement and termination points and allow changes of direction.

GENERAL

21 STAIRWAY LANDINGS The minimumdistance between landings should be 2 risers, the maximum distance 18 risers; with no more than 36 risers between turns. No flight of stairs should have a vertical rise of more than 4 m between floors or landings.

2 STAIRWAYS AND RAMPS Platforms or landingsshould be placed so that stairs or ramps are divided into approximately equal sections.

ARCHIVEFig.21

A landing in a straight flight of stairs should be at least the width of the stairs. It is preferable for the length to be equal to the width, although length may be reduced to 760 mm minimum. The width and length of quarter and half landings should also not be less than the stair width (fig. 21). Where a doorway is situated on a landing, or cross-traffic uses the landing, a clear distance of at least 610 mm is recommended from the open doorway or the path used by the cross-traffic. Platforms or landings on ladders should be provided not greater than 6 m above ground for a step or tread ladder and not more than 9 m for a rung ladder. (See figs. 22, 23 and 24.) Handrails for ladder platforms or landings should be a minimum height of 1 m.

3 LADDERS

Fig. 22 23

ARCHIVEFig. 23

Fig. 24

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ARCHIVE4 INTERMEDIATE LANDINGS Platformsintended for resting while ascending or descending should be at least 840 mm square.

5 GUARDRAILS Wherenecessary, guardrails to a height of 1 m above the platform level, with intermediate rails and toeboards, should be provided (see page 26 for details).

9Fig.25

HANDRAILS, GUARDRAILS AND TOEBOARDSGENERAL Handrails can serve two purposes: they allowthe climber to balance and hold his or her place on the stair, and they can prevent falls over the side of the stairway.

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ARCHIVEHandrails should be at a height of not less than 1 m above the level of treads and landings (measured vertically from the middle). Guardrails fitted on open sides of stairways, ramps or landings should not have open spaces larger than 930 cm2 in area, except where the spaces least dimension is less than 150 mm. (For standards for ladder platforms or landings, see pages 23 and 24.)

2 CONSTRUCTION OF GUARDRAILS All railingsshould be of sound materials, smooth, and free from sharp corners. Handrails on stairs should extend slightly beyond the stair length.

Handrail supports and connections should be capable of withstanding a test load of 750N per metre run of handrail applied in any direction along the uppermost point of the rail.

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TABLE 2MINIMUM SIZES OF RAILINGS If constructed of: (a) Wood

Handrailnot less than 50 mm X 100 mm intermediate railsnot less than 50 mm X 50 mm. Handrailnot less than 30 mm diameter; intermediate railsnot less than 25 mm diameter. Handrailnot less than 40 mm X 40 mm X 7 mm; intermediate rails not less than 30 mm X 30 mm X 3mm.

(b) Pipe

(c) Structural angle-iron rails

3 TOEBOARDS Forgeneral purposes a height of 150 mm is suitable. Toeboards should be fitted anywhere26

there is a danger of objects such as tools being lost over the side. They also assist in preventing people slipping or falling through guardrails

ARCHIVEPORTABLE LADDERSGENERAL Portable ladders are used in manysituations to gain access where permanent or fixed access is not practicable or possible. Portable ladders used incorrectly or in a defective condition present a serious hazard and cause many injuries each year. Because of the variety of portable ladders and their various uses it is not possible to fully cover their correct design, maintenance and use in this booklet. The Standards Association of New Zealand has issued a number of standards which cover the specifications of portable ladders, and where possible only those ladders meeting the appropriate standard should be used.

10 types of ladder:

2 CONSTRUCTIONAll portable ladders should be properly designed and constructed of suitable materials in accordance with: NZS 3609: 1978 Specification for Timber Ladders which covers the following types of timber ladder: single, single-section or standing ladder; cleat ladder; extension ladder (overlap ladder).

3 MAINTENANCE AND SAFETY INSPECTIONS All laddersshould be inspected on a regular basis and well maintained. Ladders which are defective should be removed from service until repaired or, if this is not possible, they should be destroyed. Ladders awaiting repair should be suitably labelled. Prior to use they should be checked for: defective rungs; warping, cracking or splintering of stiles; faulty nails, screws, bolts and fittings; faulty feet; or broken ropes or fittings.

NZS 5233: 1981 Specification for

Portable Ladders (Other than Timber Ladders) which covers the followingsingle ladder; extension ladder; dual-purpose step ladder; step ladder.

To test rungs, tap each one with the handle of a hammera dull sound indicates a defective rung and the ladder should not be used.

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ARCHIVE4 SAFE USE OF PORTABLE LADDERS Never use aladder which is not long enough. Always stand ladders on a firm and level base. Step ladders should be properly spread to ensure stability. Always secure a ladder at the top and bottom. If this is not possible or practicable, have a second person footing or holding the ladder When ascending or descending always face the ladder and use both hands and never overreach sideways from a ladder. Set the ladder at the correct angle of 1 unit out at the base for every 4 units of vertical height. The ladder should project at least 1 m above any platform or landing. be used near electricity and should be labelled not to be used for electrical work.

6 MISUSE OF LADDERS Ladders shouldbe used only for the purpose for which they are designed. Never use a ladder in a horizontal position or as a support. The steps or rungs of ladders should not be used as work benches. Do not place ladders on unstable bases to obtain additional height. Do not alter ladders in any manner, i.e. shortening legs. Do not use a step ladder in the folded position. Only one person should use a ladder at any one time.

7 STORAGE When not inuse, a ladder should be stored in a readily accessible position where it is protected from: mechanical damage; moisture; chemicals; excessive heat; or any other harmful influence.

5 WORK FROM A LADDER Work should becarried out from a rung or step no higher than 1 m below the top of a ladder and the ladder should be positioned so that it is not necessary to lean out excessively to carry out the work. A basic rule is that the buckle of the users belt should always be within the line of the stiles. Always ensure all loose items are removed from the top of a ladder before moving it. A metal ladder or a wooden ladder with a wire reinforcing strip is not to28

Ladders should not be left lying around or standing where they can fall, be hit or trip up any person. A ladder stored horizontally should be adequately supported at several points over its length to prevent it from sagging. The support points should be covered with a soft material

ARCHIVETHE FACTORIES AND COMMERCIAL PREMISES ACT 1981The occupier of an undertaking shall ensure that there is provided and maintained in the undertaking safe means of access to every place at which any worker is required to work or to which any worker is required to go. The occupier of an undertaking shall ensure that, while workers are actually working in any room in the undertaking: (a) (b) Every door of the room; Every door of any passage or staircase leading to the room or serving as a means of entrance to or egress from the room; The outer or entrance door by which workers employed in the undertaking usually enter or leave the undertaking whether or not the door is part of the undertaking, is kept clear and unlocked, so as to allow quick and easy egress. Without limiting the generality of subsection (1) of this section, the occupier of an undertaking in which there is a basement whose area exceeds 100 m2 shall ensure that there are at least 2 safe means of access, remotely separated from each other, to and from the basement.

111. 2. 1.

Section 27: Safe means of access and egress requires that:

(c)

Section 28: Safe place of employment requires that: The occupier of an undertaking shall ensure: (a) That where any worker is required to work in the undertaking at a place from which a fall of more than 3 m is possible, unless that place affords a secure foothold and such secure handhold (if any) as is reasonably necessary, means are provided by fencing or otherwise to ensure that workers safety; That sufficient space is provided in every room in the undertaking in which workers are engaged to permit reasonable movement without the risk of injury to any worker.29

(b)

ARCHIVE2 The occupier of an undertaking shall ensure that all skylights in it are either: (a) (b) Glazed with a shatter-resistant material; Guarded to the satisfaction of an Inspector; Section 30: Floors, passages, and stairs requires that: The occupier of an undertaking shall ensure: (a) That all floors, steps, stairs, ramps, landings, passages, gangways, and ladders, whether or not they belong to the undertaking, that are used or likely to be used by workers are of sound construction and properly maintained; That all steps, stairs, and ramps, whether or not they belong to the undertaking, that are used or likely to be used by workers: (i) Are provided with substantial handrails; (ii) Where necessary, are provided with slats or some other means sufficient to prevent slipping; (c) That all openings in floors situated in the undertaking are securely fenced, except to the extent that the nature of the work done in the undertaking renders it impracticable so to fence them; That no stairs, ramps, or passages, whether or not they belong to the undertaking, used or likely to be used by workers, are so steep, narrow, winding, intricate, insecure, or otherwise defective, as to be, in the opinion of an Inspector, unsafe; That every doorway and opening in the undertaking used for hoisting or lowering goods or materials, whether by mechanical power or otherwise, is securely fenced and provided with secure handholds on each side;

(b)

(d)

(e)

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ARCHIVEOTHER PUBLICATIONSThe Department of Labour publishes a wide range of codes of practice, booklets, leaflets and posters on industrial safety. They are available from your nearest district office of the Department and other titles include:Atmospheric Conditions in the Workplace Dust Explosions in Factories First Aid for the Workplace Good Housekeeping in Industry Guarding Transmission Machinery Handling Loose MaterialsSafety Guide Industrial OverallsSafety Guide Lifting with Safety Occupational Noisean Employers Guide Planning the Workplace Safe Stacking and Storage Safety at WorkWhat Every Employee should Know (English, Samoan and Tongan versions)

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