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In this installment of our blog series, let’s focus on more specific details – design changes that affect guardrail. If you’re wondering about how guardrail is affected, there are several new developments in the updated rule. First, guardrail height is officially required at 42 inches (+/- 3), which is now aligned with construction industry regulations. […]
While our previous post in this series focused on the new requirement for ladder safety systems, this post discusses some additional requirements that affect ladder use and design. Here are a few of the most common questions we have received about ladders. Are chains acceptable to protect ladder openings? I often see chains at the […]
In this installment of our blog series, we’re focusing on new OSHA regulations related to fall protection for fixed ladders. It’s important to note that the final rule phases out the use of cages and wells as fall protection devices on fixed ladders that extend more than 24 feet. The regulation—specifically paragraph (b)(9)(i)—allows employers to […]
This post in our blog series on new OSHA fall protection regulation focuses on common questions related to fall protection anchorages. Most questions on this topic stem directly from the language below from 29 CFR 1910.27(b)(1)(i): “Before any rope descent system is used, the building owner must inform the employer, in writing, that the building […]
Following up on Volume 3 in our series, this installment answers additional questions related to the new requirement for conducting fall hazard assessments. When does the assessment need to be complete? Technically, the new regulation became rule in January 2017, so it is theoretically required now. If you don’t have documentation of a compliant assessment […]
This installment in our blog series on new OSHA fall protection regulations focuses on common questions related to fall hazard assessments. One of the most significant requirements provided in the new rule is the stated need for the assessment of fall hazards, as outlined in 1910.132(d). It’s important to note that this is an existing […]
Fixed ladders are among the many aspects of fall protection that are impacted by the recently published OSHA 1910 regulations. While the regulation went into effect on January 17, OSHA is allowing time to get your organization into compliance. While some minor changes are required for clearances, rung spacing, step-across distance, and other ladder design […]
Turnarounds are both critical and dangerous to the petrochemical and refining industries. There are typically thousands of contractors on site over a 30- to 60-day period – many of whom are unfamiliar with the site. With the increase in personnel and the number of tasks being completed during these maintenance events, it’s not surprising that […]
Today is a special day to show the people in your life that you care. You might be thinking that chocolates, flowers or gifts are an appropriate expression of your feelings. When it comes to your employees, the best way you can show you care is by keeping them safe. It’s pretty difficult to convince […]
The Spot 
FAQs on new OSHA Fall Protection Regulations: Vol. 10 – Stair Design Changes
In this installment of our blog series, we continue to focus on more details that changed with the new OSHA regulations – specifically design changes that affect stairs. OSHA 1910.29 says that for any stairs installed after January 17, 2017, a handrail that measures 30-38 inches is required, as well as a 42-inch stair rail. […]