603 Stairway and Ladder Safety

Glossary

A

• Access Point. A location where workers enter or exit a walking-working surface, stairway, or ladder. OSHA regulations under 1926 Subpart X require that access points be clear of obstructions and properly maintained to ensure safe passage.
• Angle of Stairway Rise. The angle formed by the slope of the stairway, typically measured from the horizontal. OSHA regulations require stairways to be installed at an angle between 30 and 50 degrees to ensure safe use.
• Articulated Ladder. A ladder that features locking hinges, allowing it to be configured into multiple shapes such as an extension ladder, step ladder, or scaffold. Articulated ladders are versatile and can be adjusted for various tasks. NIOSH emphasizes proper locking and inspection of hinges before use to prevent collapse.

B

• Back Angle (Ladders). The angle formed by the back legs of a step ladder and the surface it rests on. NIOSH recommends that the back angle be appropriate to ensure ladder stability and prevent tipping, especially when used on uneven surfaces.
• Base Spread (Ladders). The distance between the two feet of a ladder at its base. NIOSH emphasizes that the base spread of a ladder should be wide enough to provide stability but not so wide that it becomes unstable or difficult to position correctly.

C

• Cable Ladder. A type of fixed ladder used specifically for accessing cable trays or other overhead conduits in industrial environments. NIOSH recommends ensuring that these ladders have appropriate fall protection systems due to their frequent vertical orientation.
• Carrier (Ladder Safety Device). A track, rail, or other system used in conjunction with a fixed ladder to guide and support a worker's fall arrest system. OSHA's 1926 regulations stipulate that carriers must be installed and maintained properly to reduce the risk of falls.
• Center of Gravity (Ladders). The point where a ladder's weight is evenly balanced. NIOSH warns workers to be mindful of their center of gravity while climbing ladders to avoid overreaching or leaning, which can destabilize the ladder and cause falls.
• Cleat (for Ladders). Horizontal crosspieces on a ladder that serve as steps. In the context of OSHA 1926 Subpart X, cleats must be spaced evenly and securely fastened to the ladder frame, ensuring safe and stable footing.
• Combination Ladder. A ladder that can be used as a step ladder, extension ladder, or in other configurations. OSHA requires combination ladders to meet the same strength and stability standards as regular ladders when used in any configuration.
• Competent Person (Ladder Inspection). An individual who is capable of identifying existing and potential hazards with ladders and stairways and has the authority to take corrective actions. NIOSH recommends regular ladder and stairway inspections by a competent person to prevent accidents.

D

• Design Load. The total load a ladder or stairway is designed to support, including the weight of the worker, equipment, and materials. OSHA mandates that ladders and stairways be capable of supporting at least four times the intended load to prevent failure.
• Dockboard. A movable platform used to bridge the gap between a dock and a vehicle. Although not specifically a ladder or stairway, OSHA includes dockboard regulations under general walking-working surfaces to ensure safe passage.
• Double-Cleat Ladder. A ladder with a center rail and cleats on both sides to allow simultaneous climbing by two workers. According to OSHA 1926 Subpart X, double-cleat ladders must be used when there are 25 or more employees or when ladders serve two-way traffic.

E

• Extension Ladder. A portable ladder that consists of two or more sections that can be extended to reach higher areas. OSHA 1926 Subpart X provides guidelines on the proper use, angle of inclination, and securing of extension ladders to prevent slips and falls.
• Extension Ladder. A non-self-supporting ladder that consists of two or more sections that can be extended to reach higher areas. Extension ladders are commonly used for tasks at elevated heights and should be properly secured to prevent slipping or tipping. NIOSH advises workers to check rung locks and angle positioning before climbing.

F

• Fall Distance (Ladders). The vertical distance a worker could fall from a ladder in the event of a slip or collapse. NIOSH recommends using personal fall protection systems or limiting work on high ladders to minimize the fall distance and reduce injury risk.
• Fall Restraint System. A system designed to prevent workers from reaching areas where they could fall, such as near unprotected edges of stairways or platforms. NIOSH advises using fall restraint systems in areas where ladders and stairways are regularly accessed to enhance safety.
• Fixed Industrial Stairs. Permanent stairs designed for regular use in industrial environments. OSHA requires fixed industrial stairs to be strong enough to handle a load of at least 1,000 pounds and have uniform riser heights and tread depths for safety.
• Fixed Ladder (Construction). A ladder permanently attached to a structure or building in construction settings. OSHA 1926 Subpart X specifies safety requirements for fixed ladders, including cage and fall protection systems for ladders exceeding 24 feet in height.
• Folding Ladder. A ladder that folds down into a compact form for easy storage. Often used for light-duty tasks, folding ladders must be fully extended and locked in place before use. NIOSH advises checking the locking mechanism to ensure stability and safety.
• Footing (Ladder). The stable surface or foundation where the ladder is placed. NIOSH recommends that ladders be placed on level, solid footing to prevent slipping or tipping. For added safety, non-slip devices can be used on the ladder's feet.

G

• General Industry. The sector of industry that includes all industries not categorized under construction, agriculture, or maritime. This includes manufacturing, warehousing, distribution, and other service industries.
• Grab Rails (Stairways). Horizontal or vertical rails provided along stairways to help workers maintain balance while climbing or descending. NIOSH encourages installing grab rails in addition to handrails to give workers extra support and prevent falls.
• Guarded. A condition where openings, edges, or other hazards are protected by a barrier to prevent falls. OSHA requires that stairways and ladders be properly guarded to prevent workers from falling off the sides or through openings.

H

• Hazard. A potential source of harm or adverse health effect on a person or persons. Hazards can be physical, chemical, biological, ergonomic, or psychosocial.

I

• Inspection Frequency (Ladders and Stairways). The regular intervals at which ladders and stairways are inspected for wear, damage, or safety concerns. NIOSH recommends frequent inspections, particularly before use, to identify and repair any issues that could lead to accidents.

J

• Job-Made Wooden Ladder. A ladder constructed on-site using wood, typically for temporary use in construction. OSHA 1926 regulations outline detailed standards for the construction, use, and maintenance of these ladders to ensure safety.

K

L

• Ladder Jack Scaffold. A type of scaffold that is supported by two ladders. OSHA specifies that ladders used in ladder jack scaffolding must be heavy-duty and capable of supporting the additional load of workers and materials.
• Ladder Safety System. A system designed to prevent workers from falling off a ladder. This may include a carrier, harness, and connectors. OSHA requires ladder safety systems for fixed ladders over 24 feet unless other fall protection is provided.
• Landing Platform. A horizontal surface at the top or between sections of a stairway or ladder where workers can safely stand. Under OSHA 1926 Subpart X, landings must be large enough to provide a resting space and be equipped with guardrails.
• Load Rating (Ladders). The maximum weight a ladder can safely support, including the worker and any tools or materials. NIOSH advises that users should always check the load rating before climbing and ensure it is not exceeded.
• Lower Section (Ladder). The part of an extension ladder that remains stationary while the upper section is extended. NIOSH stresses that the lower section must be positioned securely before the upper section is extended to prevent ladder instability.

M

• Midrail. The horizontal railing between the top rail and the walking surface, part of a stair or guardrail system. OSHA mandates midrails to provide additional protection to prevent falls, especially on stairs and elevated walkways.
• Mobile Ladder Stand. A portable, self-supporting ladder with a platform at the top. OSHA regulations require mobile ladder stands to be stable, capable of supporting the intended load, and equipped with guardrails for platforms over 4 feet high.

N

• Non-Self-Supporting Ladder. A ladder that requires support from a wall or other structure to remain stable, such as an extension or single ladder. OSHA 1926 Subpart X specifies that these ladders must be positioned at the correct angle to avoid tipping and to provide stability during use.

O

• Open Riser. A stairway where the space between treads is open rather than enclosed. OSHA requires that stairways with open risers have treads that are large and slip-resistant to ensure safety during use.
• Orchard Ladder. A tripod ladder designed specifically for agricultural use, typically featuring a wide base for stability and a single rear leg to allow use on uneven ground. NIOSH recommends ensuring the ground is stable and free of obstacles before using orchard ladders.
• Overreaching (Ladders). The act of extending one's body too far while on a ladder, potentially causing the ladder to tip over. NIOSH advises workers to always keep their belt buckle between the ladder's side rails to avoid overreaching.

P

• Passageway. A route through which workers pass, including stairways and walkways. OSHA mandates that passageways be kept clear and free of obstructions to avoid slips, trips, or falls, especially in areas around ladders and stairways.
• Personal Fall Arrest System. A system designed to arrest the fall of a worker, which includes a harness, anchorage, and connector. In the context of ladders over 24 feet, OSHA 1926 Subpart X requires the use of such systems when a cage or ladder safety device is not available.
• Pitch (Ladders). The angle between the ladder and the ground. NIOSH recommends that non-self-supporting ladders be positioned at a 75-degree angle (a 4:1 ratio) to ensure stability. A ladder set at an improper pitch can increase the risk of slipping or falling.
• Platform Ladder. A self-supporting ladder with a large platform area at the top, providing a stable standing surface for workers. NIOSH recommends platform ladders for tasks requiring extended periods at elevated heights, ensuring that the platform is equipped with guardrails for added safety.
• Pole Ladder. A ladder that leans against a vertical support, typically used for accessing utility poles, trees, or other vertical structures. Pole ladders are non-self-supporting and must be securely positioned to prevent slipping. NIOSH advises workers to use pole ladders with stabilizing equipment or tie-offs to reduce fall risk.

R

• Railing Height (Stairways). The vertical height of handrails along stairways. NIOSH requires that stairway railings be of sufficient height (usually between 34 and 38 inches) to provide adequate support and prevent falls.
• Railings. A barrier on the side of stairways, platforms, or walking-working surfaces that prevents falls. OSHA defines railing height, strength, and design specifications to ensure they are effective in preventing worker injuries.
• Repetitive Climbing (Ladders). Continuous or repeated climbing up and down ladders during a work shift. NIOSH cautions that repetitive climbing can cause fatigue, increasing the risk of slips and falls, and recommends regular breaks or alternate tasks to reduce fatigue.
• Retractable Ladder. A ladder designed to collapse or fold for easy storage. OSHA mandates that retractable ladders must be securely locked in place when extended to prevent sudden collapses or accidents during use.
• Riser Height (Stairways). The vertical distance between the surfaces of two consecutive stair treads. OSHA 1926 Subpart X specifies that riser heights must be uniform and within a certain range to reduce the risk of tripping.
• Rolling Ladder. A portable ladder with wheels, often used in industrial or warehouse settings for accessing high shelves or equipment. NIOSH recommends ensuring the wheels are locked in place before climbing to prevent the ladder from moving unexpectedly.
• Roof Ladder. A ladder designed specifically for working on sloped roofs, featuring hooks at the top to secure the ladder to the ridge of the roof. NIOSH advises using roof ladders with proper fall protection systems, such as harnesses, to prevent falls from elevated heights.
• Rung Lock. A mechanism on an extension ladder that locks the rung in place once it is extended. NIOSH advises users to ensure the rung lock is fully engaged before climbing to prevent sudden collapse of the ladder.

S

• Safety Feet. Non-slip devices or materials attached to the bottom of a ladder's feet to provide additional stability. NIOSH recommends the use of safety feet, especially on slippery or uneven surfaces, to reduce the risk of ladder movement during use.
• Scaffold Ladder. A ladder used to access scaffolding platforms. NIOSH emphasizes the importance of securely anchoring scaffold ladders and ensuring they extend at least 3 feet above the scaffold platform for safe access.
• Self-Supporting Ladder. A ladder that can stand independently, such as a step ladder. OSHA 1926 Subpart X regulates the safe use of self-supporting ladders, including load capacity and positioning to prevent tipping.
• Side Rails. The vertical components on either side of a ladder that provide structural support. OSHA 1926 regulations require that side rails be strong enough to support the intended load and spaced far enough apart to prevent workers from being pinched or injured.
• Side Step Ladder. A ladder designed with steps on the side, commonly used in confined spaces. NIOSH recommends side step ladders for access in areas where traditional ladders may not fit, provided they are secured and inspected regularly for safety.
• Single Ladder. A non-self-supporting ladder consisting of a single section, typically used for straight climbing. Single ladders must be leaned against a secure structure for stability. NIOSH suggests positioning single ladders at a proper angle (usually 75 degrees) to prevent tipping or slipping.
• Slip Resistance (Ladder and Stair Treads). The friction between the user's footwear and the surface of a ladder rung or stair tread. NIOSH advises that all ladders and stairways be equipped with slip-resistant treads or materials to reduce the chance of slipping, especially in wet or oily conditions.
• Slip-Resistant Treads. Treads on stairways or ladders designed with materials or textures to prevent slipping. OSHA 1926 Subpart X requires that treads on all stairways be slip-resistant to ensure safe use in both wet and dry conditions.
• Spreader. A locking mechanism on a step ladder that keeps the front and rear sections from separating. OSHA requires that spreaders on portable ladders be strong and secure to ensure stability while in use.
• Spiral Stairway (Construction). A stairway that curves around a central point, used when space is limited. OSHA 1926 Subpart X specifies safety requirements for spiral stairways, including tread dimensions and handrails, to ensure safe use in construction environments.
• Stair Rail System. A barrier that runs along the exposed side of a stairway, typically including a top rail and midrail, to prevent falls. OSHA 1926 Subpart X outlines specific height, strength, and design requirements for stair rail systems in construction settings.
• Step-Across Distance. The horizontal gap between the centerline of the ladder and the point of access or landing platform. OSHA 1926 Subpart X mandates that the step-across distance for fixed ladders must be no greater than 12 inches to reduce the risk of falls.
• Step-Across Distance (Ladder). The horizontal distance between the centerline of a fixed ladder and the nearest edge of the structure it accesses. OSHA requires this distance to be no greater than 12 inches to ensure that workers can safely transition from the ladder to the landing or platform.
• Step Bolts (Pole Steps). Bolt-like rungs installed on structures like poles or towers to allow climbing. OSHA 1926 Subpart X requires step bolts to be spaced evenly and securely fastened to prevent accidents during climbing.
• Step Ladder. A self-supporting ladder with flat steps and a hinged back, designed for use in a fully open position. NIOSH recommends using step ladders for shorter tasks, ensuring that the spreaders are locked and the ladder is fully open to prevent collapse.
• Step-Through Design (Fixed Ladders). A design where the top of the ladder allows workers to step through the rails and onto a landing or platform. NIOSH recommends step-through designs for easier and safer transitions between ladders and work platforms.

T

• Temporary Stairway. A stairway erected temporarily during construction or demolition activities. OSHA 1926 Subpart X sets guidelines for the installation, use, and maintenance of temporary stairways to ensure they are safe for workers.
• Three-Point Contact. A safety practice where a worker maintains three points of contact (two hands and one foot, or two feet and one hand) while climbing a ladder. NIOSH strongly encourages this method to help maintain balance and prevent falls.
• Toeboard. A low, protective barrier at the edge of a platform, landing, or stairway to prevent tools or materials from falling and injuring workers below. OSHA 1926 Subpart X mandates toeboards in certain situations to safeguard workers from falling objects.
• Top Cap (Step Ladder). The flat or slightly curved platform at the top of a step ladder, not intended for standing. NIOSH warns workers never to stand on the top cap of a step ladder, as it may cause the ladder to become unstable and tip over.
• Top Rail. The uppermost horizontal rail of a stair or guardrail system. OSHA mandates that top rails must be strong enough to prevent falls and be installed at a specific height above the walking or working surface.
• Tread Depth. The horizontal distance from the front to the back of a stair tread. OSHA 1926 Subpart X specifies minimum tread depth requirements to ensure stairways are safe and comfortable to use.
• Trestle Ladder. A self-supporting, portable ladder consisting of two ladder sections hinged at the top, forming an inverted "V" shape. Trestle ladders are often used for painting or maintenance work. NIOSH advises using them on stable ground and ensuring the hinges are securely locked before use.
• Tripod Ladder. A ladder with three legs for added stability, commonly used in landscaping and orchards. NIOSH suggests that workers verify the tripod ladder's stability before use, especially on uneven or soft ground, and use appropriate safety gear when working at heights.
• Twin Step Ladder. A self-supporting ladder with steps on both sides, allowing two workers to climb and work simultaneously. NIOSH advises using twin step ladders only when both workers' combined weight does not exceed the ladder's load capacity, and spreaders are locked to prevent collapse.

U

• Unprotected Sides (Ladders and Stairways). The edges or sides of a stairway or ladder that are not guarded by a railing, net, or other protective barrier. OSHA requires protection for all unprotected sides to prevent falls from elevated surfaces.
• Unsafe Condition. A physical state or environment that increases the likelihood of an accident or injury. Unsafe conditions must be identified and mitigated to ensure a safe workplace.
• Unprotected Sides and Edges. Areas where there is no guardrail, safety net, or other barrier to prevent falls. OSHA 1926 Subpart X requires protection at unprotected sides and edges of stairways, ladders, and walking-working surfaces to prevent accidents.
• Unsafe Behavior. Actions or activities by workers that increase the risk of accidents or injuries. Addressing unsafe behavior is a key aspect of behavior-based safety programs.

V

• Vertical Clearance (Stairways and Ladders). The distance between the top of a stair tread or ladder rung and any overhead obstruction. OSHA specifies minimum vertical clearances to ensure that workers can pass safely without striking their heads.
• Top Cap (Step Ladder). The flat or slightly curved platform at the top of a step ladder, not intended for standing. NIOSH warns workers never to stand on the top cap of a step ladder, as it may cause the ladder to become unstable and tip over.

W

• Walking-Working Surface. Any surface on which workers perform tasks, such as floors, roofs, and platforms, including stairways and ladders. OSHA requires these surfaces to be maintained free of hazards like spills, debris, and damaged areas to ensure worker safety.
• Warning Line System. A barrier erected to warn workers that they are approaching an unprotected edge. While more common on rooftops, OSHA also requires warning lines around openings near stairways or ladders to prevent falls.
• Wooden Ladder (Construction). A ladder made from wood, typically used in construction for non-conductive properties around electrical hazards. OSHA 1926 Subpart X provides specific guidelines for the safe construction, inspection, and use of wooden ladders.
• Working Load. The maximum load or weight a ladder or stairway is designed to safely support. OSHA 1926 Subpart X requires that all ladders and stairways have a working load capacity that matches or exceeds the intended use to prevent collapse or failure.