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Monthly Archives: January 2022

A Guide to Workplace Safety: Fast Facts, Tips, and More

Posted by & filed under Workplace Safety.

Workplace safety doesn’t get floated around as much, as is the case with other employment benefits like salary bonuses or retirement plans. So, when a company prioritizes safety and security for its employees, people can’t help but give it their seal of approval.

Caring for your workers’ safety at the outset rather than as an afterthought speaks volumes about your commitment to protecting the well-being of your staff, not only for the benefit of your organization but also for the families they support.

This is especially true in workplace environments where occupational hazards are high. Employees who work in manufacturing facilities, warehouses, and other industrial environments face more risks than workers in traditional office spaces. Your duty as an employer is to ensure the health and safety of all your workers.

Installing CCTV cameras and biometric systems can be a good place to start in securing workplace safety. But at the end of the day, the guidelines you’ve placed will be the key deterrent against unsafe working elements, processes, or conditions that may escalate into accidents or injuries. The guide below will teach you how to establish a safe workspace based on facts, best practices, and other insightful recommendations.

A Guide to Workplace Safety

Did you know that work-related illnesses and injuries cost global economies approximately $170 billion per year?

That figure, which comes from the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, is comparable to cancer-related expenses. But that’s just the tip of the iceberg, as companies are far more responsible than supporting their employees financially. As an employer, you’re also accountable for the health and life of your workforce.

Safety first—this should be the goal of every organization, regardless of the business size or industry. The principle of workplace safety views diseases and accidents as avoidable or controllable events. As such, you must set the highest standards possible for the conditions and processes within work environments.

1. Reduced risk for accidents and injuries

The right work environment can help your organization secure the overall well-being of the staff and other individuals. A properly set up health and safety management system can guide employees on how to approach their work in a way that can significantly minimize illnesses, injuries, and other hazards to their health.

2. Improved employee retention

You’re probably aware that high employee turnover rates can negatively impact your organization financially and otherwise.  Employees need to feel that they’re being valued by the company, or they might quit their job. When it comes to workplace safety, employees expect the management to provide a caring, healthy, and safe environment.  

3. Lowered medical costs

Preventing workplace injury is way less expensive than spending on medical insurance claims for your employees or compensating injured workers for their lost income. The OSHA says you can save 20% to 40% of your company budget with a carefully designed safety and health management system.

4. Maximum productivity

When employees feel secure about the conditions or atmosphere in which they work, they’re more likely to contribute to your bottom line by rendering complete hours of work, performing better, and being more engaged.

5. Fewer costs on equipment replacement or repair

Installing quality equipment in the right places is an important element in a safe, healthy, and secure workspace. Neglecting this aspect may only result in equipment damage, which will require you to dip into your budget to pay for new purchases or additional maintenance services.

6. Higher trust ratings

Your efforts to promote a safe workplace won’t go unnoticed in the community or business industry. Investors and customers feel confident about doing business with you because of the safety standards you’ve put into place across your work processes.

Tips to Ensuring a Safe Working Environment

From electrical hazards and faulty equipment to workplace injuries and office stress, here are safety tips to implement with your team.

  •  Keep workspaces free from clutter. There’s a place for everything, and everything should be in its place. This methodology involves designating a specific area for documents, supplies, tools, and even trash to maintain order in the work area.

A clutter-free workspace can help reduce injury and improve productivity since the system enables workers to get rid of unnecessary back-and-forths to perform their tasks.

  • Make mental health a priority. The workplace can be a source of stress. If left unmanaged, it can progress into more serious problems such as burnout, anxiety, or depression. Supervisors and managers should be sensitive and proactive in guiding and supporting employees who may be facing challenges at work, so they don’t fall deeper into an unhealthy state of mind.
  • Disseminate safety procedures. Everyone has to be aware of the company’s safety and health policies and processes. Communicating these to all employees helps eliminate unsafe behavior across departments and levels in the organization.
  • Allow regular breaks. Experts recommend wellness breaks for employees. Whether it’s going out for a short walk at lunchtime or taking a power nap, regular breaks can be energizing for workers. When they return to work, they’re no longer as tired, so judgment errors are less likely to occur.
  • Educate workers about body posture. Having the right posture applies to both office workers and manual laborers. Employees can avoid neck pain, carpal tunnel, or back pains by keeping an ideal posture while working on their desks. Meanwhile, machine operators and those who constantly lift heavy things at work should have the proper tools or assistance from a co-worker to prevent overexerting their bodies.
  • Set up emergency exits strategically. Emergency exits are a must in all office and business structures. Just see to it that they’re accessible to everyone, nothing is obstructing the exits, and the pathways to emergency power areas are clear in case power needs to be turned on or off.
  • Wear personal protective equipment. Depending on the nature of your business, you must provide your employees with PPE to keep them safe from injury while they’re engaged at work. PPE can vary from goggles to earplugs and hard hats, among others.
  • Invest in the right equipment. Employees need quality work equipment to make their tasks easier and safer to do. For instance, construction companies and architectural firms would do well to source industrial ladders with fall protection systems. 

Even if you have employees working from high areas, they can have easy access to those areas while having maximum protection against falls and other injuries.

Here, cutting corners is not acceptable, as using low-standard equipment and accessories is bound to give rise to potentially fatal injuries. Worker safety equipment like industrial ladders from O’Keeffe’s are OSHA and ANSI certified, meaning they meet industry standards to reduce the risk of accidents in any work environment or condition. That way, you can optimize your productivity and prevent work-related incidents.

Safety is a Workplace Priority

Workplace injuries, illnesses, and hazards can be costly for any business. Besides the financial costs, there are legal and moral issues that might arise if employee safety and health are not guaranteed.

On the contrary, a safe and healthy work environment affords employers a loyal workforce, efficient operations, and overall business health. As you work towards improving workplace safety, your safety measures should include the right equipment that will enable you to achieve these goals. If you need to install high-quality ladders within your facility, head on over to O’Keeffe’s for tailor-fit solutions.

The Illustrated Guide to Using Fixed Industrial Ladders

Posted by & filed under Industrial Ladders.

Having the right tools makes work a lot easier, and for handypersons, fabricators, and other professionals working in various industries, this saying is highly relevant. No matter what the project may be, having the right equipment is essential because it allows workers to perform at their best.

Whether you’re running a manufacturing, commercial or industrial facility or have employees regularly accessing dangerous areas, having high-quality industrial ladders is an absolute must. Other than keeping your workers safe, investing in reliable pieces will assist your employees with any kind of manual work or task.

Fortunately, fixed ladder providers are highly flexible and are fully aware that each customer has their own unique needs. Depending on your preference, requirements, and budget, manufacturers offer specialized products to suit different applications.

If you’re looking to purchase or upgrade a fixed ladder for your company, let this guide teach you everything you need to know.

What is a Fixed Industrial Ladder?

Fixed industrial ladders are metal-based tools that are permanently installed within a structure.  They are used for various applications such as accessing high areas of the buildings, descending to manholes in factories, and more. Made from durable materials, these fixed ladders provide easy access and minimize the risk associated with climbing heights.

4 Types of Fixed Industrial Ladders

First things first—you have to identify which kind of industrial ladder your business needs. Several types of fixed industrial ladders are available in the market to choose from, all of which are designed for a specific purpose. To help you determine the best purchase possible, let’s discuss the four types you can avail of.

 1. Access ladders

Access ladders are the best choice for safe and reliable access to high elevations like rooftops, mezzanines, and loading docks. Constructed from lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and low-maintenance aluminum, purchasing one is guaranteed to bring maximum strength and safety to work.

Before you install fixed access ladders in your building, there are a few things to keep in mind. The accessibility, functionality, and expected maintenance of your choice are something to consider.

Access ladders are customizable, so feel free to modify them to fit your space and requirements best. To make the most of your purchase, ensure that your ladder is built to withstand rust and corrosion. Doing this will keep maintenance costs to a minimum.  This is where choosing aluminum over steel ladders can be very beneficial. 

There are also various ladder safety attachments and accessories that you can use depending on your needs.  This includes safety posts, fall arrests, landing platforms, security doors, and more. 

2. Ship ladders

If you’re working on a limited space, ship ladders are angled tools that can help you get the job done. According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and International Building Code standards, they are steeper than the typical 45-degree and 30- to 32-degree angles of stairs.

Some ship ladders typically have a 60- or 75-degree slope, equipped with treads, stair rails, and open rises. Just like access ladders, this type of ladder is also designed for maximum safety, comfort, and support. Custom slopes are also available by contacting the manufacturer.  When taking your pick, go for a ship ladder made from heavy-duty aluminum that is lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and maintenance-free.

3. Cage ladders

When your ladder application exceeds 20 feet, selecting cage ladders will ensure that none of your employees will get hurt while working. Its built-in fall protection system provides a level of safety that meets OSHA standards and promises efficiency in accomplishing tasks.

Take note that fixed cage ladders should be fabricated with an ergonomic design. As it’s commonly used for greater heights, you want to make sure that the quality of your ladder can give both security and comfort to your workers under any climbing conditions.

Choose materials that are not subject to corrosion to avoid any safety issues or extra maintenance work in the future.

4. Custom ladders

If fixed access, ship, or cage ladders aren’t cut for the job and your facility requires more than a piece of standard aluminum equipment, opt for custom products to specifically support your workers and their workload.

Whether platforms, stairs, ramps, or catwalks, secure a custom ladder that can best suit your business functions and needs. Remember to find a tailor-made alternative manufactured from durable stainless or galvanized steel that will warrant overall safety and comfort for its users.

5 Safety Precautions When Using Fixed Ladders

When it comes to injuries and accidents, the safety measures you’ve placed will serve as your main line of defense. Now that you know the various types of fixed ladders, let’s review how you can keep ladder-related incidents at bay.

1. Inspect for damages before use

Before finalizing your purchase, check your ladder for any loose or damaged parts. You want to make sure that your order is functioning as it should without any defects. Should there be issues present, report them to the manufacturer and have them fixed immediately.

2. Cancel work in high elevation during bad weather

While fixed industrial ladders come with maximum protection for their users, it’s better to be safe than sorry. When working outdoors in inclement weather, postpone any ladder-related endeavors for the time being—climbing beyond 20 feet while it’s raining increases the risk of accidents that may lead to permanent disability or death.

3. Wipe away any slippery substance on the ladder and your clothes

Before you climb, it’s vital that you get rid of anything that may cause a delay or, worse, an accident during the ascent. Be sure to clean the ladder and your attire from any slippery or oily substance. As much as possible, avoid wearing a pair of gloves or shoes that are oversized, have a slippery base, or are wet.

4. Climb and descend properly

When accessing maintenance rooms in roofs, one wrong step is all it takes to cause a mishap. Practice care and patience when ascending or descending and don’t forget to utilize your ladder’s guard rails. In case you don’t feel well, take a break before you start climbing again.

5. Limit access to authorized personnel only

In an organization, rules and regulations on equipment access are necessary to prevent any predicament during operations, including the use of industrial ladders. Only grant access to qualified employees who have passed safety training or acquired direct permission from you. If needed, you can also place sanctions or lock your ladders when not in use.

Take the Step for an Easier and Safer Way of Work

The right tools and equipment should improve work in two ways. They should make it both easier and safer—no more, no less.

A fixed industrial ladder hits two birds with one stone for different industries as it boosts workers’ efficiency and safety at the same time. So, if you want to get the best one for your business, check out our collection of industrial ladders here at O’Keeffe’s.

With over 80 years of experience in the engineering and manufacturing industry, we are confident that our solutions will satisfy your business needs. Expertly designed by our seasoned engineers, our fixed aluminum ladders suit various applications and guarantee your safety every step of the way.

To learn more, contact O’Keeffe’s and request a quote today!

10 Work-Related Injuries Common in Manufacturing Facilities

Posted by & filed under Workplace Safety.

Workplace accidents happen more often than you’d think. According to the International Labor Organization, over 340 million work-related injuries happen every year, and most victims belong to the younger and older demographics of the workforce.

While these facts are far from shocking, they are nonetheless a real cause for concern. This is especially true for those who are working in hard-industries such as manufacturing.

A report from 2019 shows that medically consulted injuries in the manufacturing industry have reached a staggering amount of 555,000. That makes sense given how workers in this sector lift heavy loads, operate machinery, and handle sensitive materials regularly. These job requirements expose them to a horde of dangers that can result in long-term ailments, disabilities, or even death. 

That’s why it’s important that you prioritize workplace safety as a business owner or manager. To achieve that objective, the first step is knowing the most common accidents that transpire in the workplace. 

1. Musculoskeletal disorders (MSD)

Musculoskeletal disorders are illnesses that are caused by overexertion. Since employees in manufacturing facilities regularly conduct physically demanding tasks, their nerves, muscles, and joints may get damaged over time. During operations, remind your workers to stretch, maintain proper posture, or use the right techniques when performing tasks. 

2. Falling objects

Factories usually have multi-tiered storage systems. Sometimes objects fall on their own, with only gravity to blame. Other times a coworker retrieving something from a higher level might accidentally drop something that hits another worker on a lower floor. Wearing hard hats and placing warning signs should keep this issue at bay.

3. Exposure to harmful substances

Your workers’ level of susceptibility to harmful substances depends on the products they handle. For instance, if you’re a garment manufacturer, there’s little risk. Meanwhile, if you produce paints, there are toxic fumes to worry about.

Exposure in small doses may be okay, but long-term exposure may potentially cause illnesses such as cancer. Investing in safety tools such as industrial masks or improving your ventilation system will help you solve this dilemma.

4. Ear damage from loud noise

There’s the so-called industrial deafness which was widespread before in heavy industries. The sad fact is it’s not entirely a thing of the past. Factories operating loud machinery should equip their workers with sufficient ear protection. Designating a quiet room or reminding them to take ear breaks are other good ways to prevent hearing deficiencies.

5. Repetitive stress injuries

The symptoms of repetitive stress injuries include pain, tingling, and numbness. The common triggers include staying in the same position for prolonged periods, using the same muscle group for an entire day’s work, and handling of vibrating equipment repeatedly.

6. Machine-related injuries

It can’t be helped for factory workers to use machinery. If there’s not enough personal protective equipment (PPE), the risks cannot be understated. Make sure your employees wear complete and proper gear at all times and that users have been adequately trained to handle such equipment.

7. Burns

Burns are highly prevalent in facilities that handle flammable substances. However, it’s important to know that the risk of a burn is not limited to these environments alone. As with all hazards in the workplace, taking a proactive approach to fire prevention will help you avoid fire/heat-related incidents.

8. Cuts and lacerations

Cuts and scrapes are closely related to the use of machinery (e.g., forklift) or simple office tools like a pair of scissors. For your workers’ safety, protective gloves and equipment should be available. To grant an extra layer of protection, make sure that you have a first-aid kit ready.

9. Electrocution

Given that electrocution can be fatal, there should be no exposed live wires throughout your workplace. Employees handling electric machinery should be properly trained and must wear the right attire and equipment for the job.

10. Slips and falls

Whether it’s a traditional office space or an industrial facility, wet surfaces can pave the way for a painful accident. Slippage can result in a bandaged foot at best and a cranial injury at worst, so make it a point to clean floors and place signs.

If your employees regularly handle commercial ladders, you should take the same approach as well. Reminding them to wear the right attire and inspecting these tools before use can help them avoid falls from great heights.

Take Safety Personally

As an employer, you should know that you are accountable for the well-being of your staff. Failure to provide a safe working environment won’t just damage your company’s reputation. It may also lead to the sickness and death of your most valuable assets—your employees.

As you hire new workers, ensure that you’re onboarding and training programs encompass safety protocols and the proper use of company resources.

To keep untoward incidents at bay, it will be in your best interest to purchase high-quality equipment. If your employees need to regularly access manholes, rooftops, and other hazardous areas, purchasing a fixed aluminum ladder with a fall protection system will be one of your best decisions.

Aluminum is non-corrosive, making it an ideal material for ladders. Pairing it with other ladder accessories such as safety brackets and landing platforms will ensure that your employees stay safe at work. So if you want to give your staff protection against sudden slippages and falls, take some time to look into our product catalog. If you have any looming concerns, get in touch with us to learn more!

A Brief Guide to OSHA’s Fixed Ladder Requirements

Posted by & filed under Industrial Ladders.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), “falls are the second leading cause of unintentional injury deaths worldwide.” To prevent individuals from fatal falls, WHO recommends that risk reduction entail safety education and training, creating safer environments, and establishing effective workplace policies.

Workers, especially those who have high-risk occupations, are more prone to falls. These employees access high areas or descend manholes. All employees are entitled to safe working conditions; therefore, employers must provide top-notch equipment and implement accident prevention measures.

Fortunately, government agencies are aware of these daily hazards and have taken measures to secure the safety of millions. With the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970, Congress created the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) to ensure safe and healthful working conditions for workers by setting and enforcing standards and by providing training, outreach, education and assistance.

This guide will provide an overview of OSHA’s fixed ladder requirements and why employers should comply with ladder regulations.

General Requirements for Fixed Ladders

OSHA’s ladder standards are divided into four main components: general requirements for all ladders, portable ladders, mobile ladders, and fixed ladders. In this article, we’ll focus on the important general requirements every fixed ladder should have to ensure your safety.  Note that this is for reference only, and to consult with OSHA for the latest requirements. 

1. Fixed ladders above 24 feet must have a fall protection system

Previously, the OSHA required fixed ladders taller than 20 feet to have cages as a form of fall protection. But, as of January 2017, OSHA changed the ladder height requirement. Fixed ladders that extend beyond 24 feet need to have fall protection systems in place.

Additionally, in 2018, the organization stated under 1910.28(b)(9) that cages were no longer considered a form of fall protection. Fixed ladders erected before November 19, 2018, will still use their existing cages. However, you must use a ladder safety system or personal fall arrest system for new or replaced ladders.

2. Applications that exceed 50 feet or above must have landing platforms

Under 1910.28(b)(9)(iii)(B), if fixed ladders with cages extend to have an unbroken length of more than 50 feet, OSHA requires that they have landing platforms in every 50-foot intervals.

3. Ladders must be made with non-corrosive material

OSHA states under 1910.23(b)(6) that metal ladders should be protected against corrosion and made with corrosion-resistant materials like aluminum. Using ladders such as high-strength and low maintenance aluminum access ladders can prevent accidents caused by residual damage or corrosion.

4. Ladder rungs should have a minimum clear width of 16 inches

Fixed ladders should have a climbing width requirement of at least 16 inches. As per OSHA 1910.23(b)(4), ladder rungs, steps, and cleats must be measured before installing ladder safety systems to ensure that they meet the given requirements. The wider the ladder system is, the easier and safer it is for you to climb it.

5. Ladders with no cages must have a clear width of at least 15 inches

If your fixed ladder doesn’t have a cage, it should be installed at least 15 inches between it and any permanent objects surrounding it. Additionally, following OSHA 1910.23(d)(13)(i), you should measure from the ladder’s centerline.

6. For fixed through ladders, side rails must provide 24 to 30 inches of clearance

The access level above the fixed ladder should at least be 24 inches wide but not more than 30 inches of clearance. As such, the ladder will be able to accommodate the width of your body, and you’ll be able to reach both side rails. In addition, according to OSHA 1910.23(d)(5), when your fixed ladder has a ladder safety system, the maximum clearance between extension handrails is 36 inches.

7. Grab bars should stick out 42 inches above the access level or landing platforms

To protect you from exiting the ladder in an access level or landing platform, grab bars should extend 42 inches above the ladder’s surface, as stated in OSHA 1910.23(d)(7). Moreover, the size of the grab bars should at least be the same as the ladder’s rungs.

8. Ladders and their nearest permanent object should have at least a 7-inch clear distance

Under OSHA 1910.23(d)(2), the minimum perpendicular distance from the centerline of the rungs to the nearest permanent object in the back of the ladder should be 7 inches. With this clearance, you’ll be able to climb the ladder without any potential trip hazards from the building.

The Importance of OSHA Compliance

Following OSHA regulations secures the continued safety of your workers. If your employees feel safe in their workplace, they are more likely to enjoy their jobs and be more productive. As such, you must make sure that both the ladder and ladder accessories you purchase are in line with the regulations stated above. For further details on fixed ladder requirements, you can review OSHA resources to learn more.

Make Ladder Safety a Priority Today

Alongside safety education and training, as an employer, you must ensure that your employees are working in a safe environment. All workplace equipment must meet regulations, especially those that are considered hazardous, such as the use of ladders to climb high places.

With O’Keeffe’s fixed ladders, safety and satisfaction are guaranteed. All our products, from access to ship ladders, are compliant with every OSHA safety regulation. Get in touch with our experts to request a quote for aluminum access ladders or ask about our custom ladder solutions.