Did you know that fixed ladders are responsible for a high percentage of workplace accidents related to heights?
When it comes to workplace protection, fixed ladders and guardrails play a vital role in preventing workplace accidents. Are you convinced that your company follows all the required rules? Correctly adopting the UNE-EN ISO 14122-4 standards not only ensures the safety of employees, but also prevents possible legal fines.
Explore, in this article, the essential aspects to ensure that your facilities comply with fixed ladder regulations.
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Introduction to the Standard UNE-EN ISO 14122-4
What is the UNE-EN ISO 14122-4 standard?
ISO 14122-4 focuses on the safety of ladders, platforms and guardrails in industrial environments. Its purpose is to reduce fall accidents and ensure safe access to machines and buildings.
Scope of application: machines and buildings
This standard covers all types of machinery in industrial environments and buildings. It is essential for any company working with fixed access systems, such as vertical ladders, platforms or fall arrest systems. It is essential to comply with fixed ladder regulations to protect employees and ensure the functionality and safety of your industrial facilities.
Main updates of the 2017 edition
The new version of the document brought with it some changes:
- Stricter requirements for safety cages.
- New specifications for fall protection devices.
- Updates in the dimensions and design of the stairs.
- Increased emphasis on risk assessment.
General Requirements for Fixed Stairways according to the regulations
Safe design and construction.
Stairs must be designed with resistant materials and designed to withstand constant and changing loads. In addition, they must have anti-slip characteristics and be able to withstand unfavorable situations such as humidity or chemical substances.
Types of fixed ladders: single and double uprights
- With an upright: perfect for small areas.
- Two supports: commonly used and recommended for better security.
Selection of the fall protection device
It is critical to choose the right system based on the height and use of the ladder. Options include:
- Safety cages.
- Vertical lifelines.
Vertical rope line, according to EN 353-2.
Anchorage point and retractable fall arrest device, according to UNE 795 class A, and UNE 360 respectively.
- Sliding devices on rails.
Fixed vertical line, according to standard 353-2 or 353-1
Spacing of spans and their height
- The maximum height between landings should not exceed 6 meters.
- The separation between rungs should be in the range of 25 to 30 cm.
Key elements of fixed ladders
Rungs: dimensions and resistance
The steps must have a non-slip surface and withstand a minimum weight of 150 kg without deformation.
Platforms and landings: how and when to install them
The installation of platforms is necessary in stairways over 6 meters high, and in areas where the change of direction is necessary.
Safety cages and other fall arrest devices
The standard requires the installation of safety cages on ladders that exceed 3 meters in height, and they must be designed to prevent entrapment and injury.
Complementary Standards and Verification
UNE-EN ISO 14122-4 is closely related to:
Good practices and risk assessment
Regulations require strength and stability tests to ensure that ladders meet safety requirements.
Safety information and safety markings on fixed ladders
Stairways should have easy-to-understand signs indicating:
- Maximum weight supported.
- Authorized activities. Tips on how to install and use ladders
Installation and use
Points to consider when installing fixed ladders in industrial buildings
It is important that the location is easily accessible and without blockages. Also, the possibility of easy maintenance should be considered .
Instructions for users
These guidelines should include guidelines for their safe use, and recommendations for keeping them in good condition.
Maintenance and periodic checks
It is essential to perform regular inspections to verify the condition of the steps and the integrity of the protection systems.
If you need an audit of stairs, platforms and handrails, at Safeway360 we analyze your installations in accordance with all applicable legal regulations.
Technical Analysis of Fixed Ladders
Basically, it’s about making sure the stairs are wide and tall enough to be safe to use.
Minimum width: The ladder should be at least 40 cm wide, so that it is safe and comfortable to climb.
Clear height above the ladder: From the steps to the ceiling or obstacles there should be at least 2 meters, so that people do not hit their heads.
Motorized and non-motorized devices
We must take into account the difference between the two devices, since motorized systems require additional controls, such as emergency switches, while non-motorized systems focus on structural strength.
Types of loads.
It is very important to consider both static and dynamic loads when designing and evaluating a fixed ladder.
Regulatory Compliance and Practical Advice
Undoubtedly, by complying with the fixed ladder regulations, in addition to avoiding sanctions, you guarantee the occupational safety of your facilities, reduce the risk of accidents, and provide greater confidence to your employees and customers.
Opt for certified suppliers and products and verify that the ladders comply with the requirements of UNE-EN ISO 14122-4.
Safeway360 designs, manufactures, supplies and installs all types of fixed service ladders and cat ladders for access to building roofs and/or industrial machinery.
Consult our product catalog, we have a consulting service to audit and make corrections on existing installations.
Complying with the regulations for fixed ladders is not only a requirement, it is a guarantee of protection!
Trust Safeway360, we advise you without obligation. Contact us.
