PDFWAC 296-45-275
Ladders, platforms, and manhole steps.
(1) General. Requirements for ladders contained in chapter 296-876 WAC apply, except as specifically noted in subsection (2) of this section.
(2) Special ladders and platforms. Portable ladders and platforms used on structures or conductors in conjunction with overhead line work need not meet chapter 296-876 WAC. However, these ladders and platforms must meet the following requirements:
(a) Ladders and platforms must be secured to prevent their becoming accidentally dislodged.
(b) Ladders and platforms must not be loaded in excess of the working loads for which they are designed.
(c) Ladders and platforms may be used only in applications for which they were designed.
(d) In the configurations in which they are used, ladders and platforms must be capable of supporting without failure at least 2.5 times the maximum intended load.
(e) All ladders must be handled and stored in such a manner as to prevent damage to the ladder.
(f) When ascending or descending a ladder, the employee must face the ladder and have free use of both hands.
(g) All defective ladders must be taken out of service and labeled as defective.
(h) When a ladder is being used which is not fixed or otherwise secured, there must be an attendant to hold the ladder and watch traffic when the work is being done on streets, alleys, sidewalks, or in industrial plants or other places where there exists the possibility of accidental contact with the ladder by third persons or vehicles.
(i) When working on the ladder, employees must, where possible, tie the top of the ladder to a substantial object to prevent falling unless the ladder is equipped with approved hooks which may be used for the same purpose.
(j) Portable ladders must not be moved with employees on the ladder.
(k) No employee must ascend or descend a rolling ladder while it is moving.
(l) No employee must stand on the top two steps of a step ladder.
(m) No employee must use a step ladder as a straight ladder.
(n) Ladders must always be placed on a secure footing with both legs resting firmly on the lower surface.
(o) Ladders made by fastening cleats or similar devices across a single rail must not be used.
(3) Conductive ladders. Portable metal ladders and other portable conductive ladders must not be used near exposed energized lines or equipment. However, in specialized high-voltage work, conductive ladders must be used where the employer can demonstrate that nonconductive ladders would present a greater hazard than conductive ladders.
Note: | A greater electrical hazard would be static electricity such as might be found in extra high voltage substations. |
(4) All conductive or metal ladders must be prominently marked and identified as being conductive and must be grounded when used near energized lines or equipment.
Note: | See chapter 296-876 WAC for additional ladder requirements. |
[Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, 49.17.040, 49.17.050, 49.17.060 and chapter 49.17 RCW. WSR 19-13-083, § 296-45-275, filed 6/18/19, effective 8/1/19; WSR 16-10-082, § 296-45-275, filed 5/3/16, effective 7/1/16. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, [49.17].040, and [49.17].050. WSR 01-11-038, § 296-45-275, filed 5/9/01, effective 9/1/01. Statutory Authority: RCW 49.17.010, [49.17].040, [49.17].050 and [49.17].060. WSR 98-07-009, § 296-45-275, filed 3/6/98, effective 5/6/98.]