Preventing Elevated Falls
Deck barge workers should use the following safe practices to prevent falls:
- Always maintain three-points of contact on a ladder-two hands and a foot, or two feet and a hand-so that only one limb is in motion at any one time.
- Avoid overextending the body when performing tasks such as checking sounders, checking lights, and wiring rigging, which can lead to falls from ladders.
- Falls from portable ladders are one of the leading causes of occupational fatalities and injuries. Use the following safe work practices when using ladders:
- Use ladders only for their designed purpose (i.e., step ladders should not be used as portable rung ladders).
- Position the ladder so that for every four feet in height, the ladder extends out from the vertical surface at the base approximately one foot.
- Make sure that the ladder is long enough for the job. If used for access to an upper landing surface, the side rails must extend at least three feet above that surface.
- Make sure that there is proper footing to keep the ladder from slipping or sliding.
- Tie the ladder to a secure object. Remember, the vessel(s) the ladder is secured to can move. Use the buddy system, if possible, so one person can hold the ladder to stop it from moving.
- Never use portable metal ladders near energized electrical equipment (such as conductors or electric arc welding machines).
- Keep your body near the middle of the step and always face the ladder while climbing.
- Do not move, shift, or extend ladders while in use. Move the ladder instead of stretching or leaning to the side to reach your work.
- Use hand lines or a tool bag/belt to keep hands free when using a ladder.
- Fully enclosed slip-resistant footwear should always be worn when using ladders.
- An adequate guard rail should be installed or employees should wear Personal Fall Arrest Systems when work is being performed above a solid surface (e.g., to prevent falls from the barge to the dock). Note: body belts are not acceptable as part of a personal fall arrest system. See 29 CFR 1926.502(d) and 29 CFR 1915.159.
- Use gangplanks with guardrails to prevent falls on the dock or pilings.
- All deck holes, openings, and hatches should be covered or guarded.
- Pigeon holes should not be used to access barge walking or working surfaces.
Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.
2-4. Which of the following safe practices should be done to prevent common elevated falls on a barge?
You forgot to answer the question!