MSHA releases ladder safety guide

Arlington, VA – A new guide from the Mine Safety and Health Administration aims to help metal and nonmetal mine operators comply with the agency’s ladder safety standards.

The guide, which MSHA states was developed at the request of stakeholders, addresses ladder construction and maintenance, requirements for fixed and portable ladders, underground ladders, and safe access standards. It also includes photographs of proper and improper ladder practices, and describes two fatal incidents that MSHA claims could have been prevented by use of fall protection and proper slip-resistant bases.