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Posts By: Chellsea Cantos

5 Factors to Consider When Purchasing an Industrial Ladder

Posted by & filed under Sales.

In industries such as construction and manufacturing, having the right equipment is a necessity. Not only does it enable your employees to go about their daily tasks, it also plays an essential role with regards to their welfare.

Since work-related injuries such as slips and falls are highly common in industrial facilities, it’s your duty as an employer to always have the right tools to help them perform efficiently and safely.

If your employees regularly work at great heights, one essential piece that your staff will need is a reliable ladder. Safety is paramount whenever your employees are accessing roofs, shafts, or manholes, and having a solidly built ladder will improve both workplace safety and employee wellness.

To help you out during the purchasing process, our guide below will discuss the different factors you should consider before buying an industrial ladder.

5 Things to Consider When Purchasing a Fixed Industrial Ladder

Due to the variety of options in the market, it may be challenging to figure out which ladder will best suit your workers’ needs. As you start canvassing for options, here are the five factors to keep in mind.  

1.      What is my price point?

Just like any other product, price plays a big role in determining if a ladder is fit for its purpose. While it’s understandable that you have budget limitations, it’s essential to know that a piece of safety equipment like a ladder can help prevent injuries and accidents, helping you avoid hefty medical costs in the long run.

Ultimately, you would not want to settle for a cheap ladder since its capabilities may not fulfill your requirements. Premium ladders may cost more, but the quality and efficiency they provide will be impeccable. The higher price tag may seem overwhelming, but the sturdiness and reliability it brings will give more value down the line.

2.      What is the purpose of my ladder?

Fortunately, manufacturers of industrial ladders understand that each client has their own unique requirements. To cater to different needs, providers offer various ladder options tailored for specific uses.

With the point above in mind, it’s clear that some ladder types will be more suitable for your needs than others. For starters, cage ladders are best installed for applications in high areas. If you have some employees that need to access roofs, manholes, and pits, its unique safety features will significantly minimize the risk of falling.

3.      Which ladder material suits me best?

Industrial ladders can be made up of different materials such as wood, fiberglass, steel, and aluminum. As you look at different ladder options, it will benefit you greatly to know the pros and cons of each substance.

While wood, steel, and fiberglass ladders can work particularly well in certain uses, aluminum ladders are the top choice across all options. It’s economical and requires little-to-no maintenance. Apart from its cost-saving benefits, it has an excellent strength-to-weight ratio, guaranteeing both safety and efficiency at work.

All things considered, it’s safe to say that aluminum ladders are the favorite and standard option amongst industrial companies. However, it’s still worth assessing the various materials in the market to ensure you get the type of ladder built perfectly for your needs.

4.      Where will I place the ladder? Will it be compatible with the structure?

Beyond the purpose and material of your ladder, where you will install this piece of equipment is another critical factor in the purchasing process. Take ship ladders as an example. Unlike cage ladders usually attached to walls, ship ladders are best for sloped structures and surfaces.  

If you need to access maintenance or utility holes, roofs, or mezzanines, a cage ladder can get the job done. But if you need to link two separate buildings or create a crossover bridge that connects different areas of your facility, then a ship ladder is the ideal choice.

When in doubt, you can always consult with a ladder manufacturer. Just make sure that you’re working with a reputable partner for customized solutions.

5.      What’s my weight and height requirement?

To ensure the safety of users, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) requires fixed ladder manufacturers to adhere to a strict set of guidelines.

Two of the essential things to remember before buying a ladder would be the weight and height requirements. Generally, aluminum ladders are designed to support at least 250 pounds of weight between each rung. In addition, it is built to withstand other loads brought by the weather and ladder safety devices.

On the other hand, the height of your application will also be crucial. If your application goes beyond 24 feet, the OSHA will require you to use a ladder with a built-in fall-protection system. Carefully analyzing your requirements will ensure that your employees will be safe, and this will greatly improve their productivity and maintain their well-being.

The Best Fixed Ladders in the Market

If you are looking for a trustworthy manufacturer that can provide you with high-quality commercial ladders, O’Keefe’s is here to support you.

With over 80 years of experience under our belt, our company has established itself as one of the best fixed ladder providers in the market. Regardless of what application it may be, we’re confident that our tailor-fit solutions can address all your needs.

Take Your Time and Consider Your Needs

Just like any other purchase, you’ll need to consider numerous factors before you buy a fixed ladder. Given that it’s a big purchase that can significantly affect your operations and workers, buying the best option available is an absolute must.

Fortunately, taking note of factors such as your purpose, materials, and capabilities will help you determine which type of ladder will best match the requirements of the task.  

To get you started, O’Keefe’s has a wide range of products that you can choose from. If you feel like you need specialized solutions, feel free to get in touch with us to learn more. We’ll be happy to assist you and discuss your specific business needs!

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!

6 Safety Guidelines When Using Fixed Ladders

Posted by & filed under Workplace Safety.

Fixed ladders are durable pieces of equipment that are permanently attached to a structure. By providing maximum safety and convenience, these tools are used for various applications, such as providing access to rooftops, manholes, and hatches within a facility.

If your employees need to work in high places or manage inconvenient areas in your commercial or industrial space, installing a fixed ladder will greatly benefit your operations, while ensuring the safety of your workers.

When using fixed ladders, taking the necessary precautions is an absolute must. Around 40% of fall-related injuries are caused by the misuse of ladders, and this figure should be a great cause for concern. With that said, it’s vital for both employers and staff to educate themselves on basic safety protocols.

As a means of preventing injuries and other mishaps in the future, you should take a look at these safety guidelines when utilizing any kind of commercial ladder.

1. Limit areas to certain personnel

If you want to reduce the occurrence of ladder-related injuries, you should consider limiting hazardous areas to qualified personnel. Apart from granting permissions to authorized individuals, this implies that you need to set company-wide policies and impose sanctions for those who break the rules.

In case that a worker needs to access these areas, ensure that they are properly trained to handle such equipment. This will help you reduce the rate of injuries and accidents around your workspace.

2. Avoid wearing slippery shoes and gloves when climbing

When handling tasks that require the use of fixed ladders, make sure that you’re wearing the right attire to keep yourself safe from preventable risks.

Your shoes shouldn’t have a slippery base, and that the gloves you’ll be using must be able to support your grip. Having the right pieces will ensure that you have a stable foundation with each step you climb.

3. Invest in ladder accessories

Apart from wearing proper attire, consider investing in other safety equipment as well. For instance, non-slip shoes only provide a limited amount of protection, so it’s worth purchasing ladder accessories such as rest platforms and arrest systems.

In the event that you slip during your climb, these tools will break your fall and prevent serious injuries. 

If needed, use special grip gloves that allow you to create a steady and solid foundation with each step you climb. Using such gloves can help you better grip the handles of the ladder.

4. Postpone ladder-related endeavors during bad weather

If your ladder is exposed to rain, postpone any type of work until the weather has subsided. Just like any other surface, rainfall can make the steps of your ladders prone to slippage. Additionally, climbing in the presence of strong winds and lightning can ruin one’s balance and concentration, eventually leading into a serious injury.

5. Report any sort of defects immediately

Regardless of their frequency of use, all employers should adhere to periodical equipment checkups. Taking a proactive approach to maintenance will ensure the safety of your workers and prevent deterioration caused by wear and tear.

When inspecting your ladders, be on the lookout for loose screws, cracks, and signs of corrosion. Most importantly, report and fix any spotted defects as soon as possible.

6. Use customized solutions

Different facilities may require different types of solutions. If you feel that the fixed ladders you found online can’t support your needs, don’t be afraid to consult with the experts. Fixed ladder manufacturers are highly flexible and can tailor-fit their solutions accordingly.

If you require custom ladders that adhere to ANSI and OSHA standards, you’ve come to the right place. By partnering with O’Keeffe’s, you can be assured that all of your unique needs will be addressed. With more than 80 years of experience under our belt, we can confidently say that our solutions will guarantee your safety and convenience.

Taking the extra steps for safety

Ladders are an essential tool, especially in the case of those who are working in hard industries.  If your employees need to work in impractical areas regularly, having one installed will be one of your best investments. Giving them a steady platform to work with will enable them complete tasks while helping you avoid life-threatening incidents.

As you look at different providers, it’s important that you take the necessary precautions. Now that you have the tips above in mind, it should be easier for you to keep accidents and injuries at bay. For quality and safety ensured ladders, contact us to learn more.

Ladder Selection 101: The Pros and Cons of Different Ladder Materials

Posted by & filed under Sales.

If you operate in the manufacturing industry or have workers who regularly access high areas, you’ll need to make employee safety one of your top priorities. According to the American Ladder Institute (ALI), it’s estimated that over 300 people pass away from ladder-related accidents every year.

To prevent any untoward incidents at work, it will be in your company’s best interest to purchase the top fixed ladders in the market.

Fortunately, there are several options when it comes to fixed ladders. Besides the differences in a ladder’s design, manufacturers offer pieces in different materials. Since each ladder material has its fair share of advantages and drawbacks, taking note of every type’s performance and purpose will enable you to find the best investment possible.

To help you narrow your choices down, we’ve listed the unique features of aluminum, steel, wood, and fiberglass ladders.

The Pros and Cons of Different Ladder Materials

Wood

For small business owners, wood is a popular choice since it’s affordable and readily available. Sometimes called timber ladders, wood ladders can be a bit heavier than other ladder materials. Be that as it may, this aspect makes the ladder sturdier and safer. As long as you take proper care of them, wood ladders can last a long time.

When dry, wood ladders are also a non-conductor of electricity. This feature makes them the top choice, together with fiberglass, for work that has electrical hazards. Despite this, wood ladders are not appropriate for all industrial or commercial environments as they are prone to rot, fungi, mold, and pests.

Pros:

●  Feels solid and sturdy

●  Inexpensive

●  Non-conductive of electricity

Cons:

●  Needs daily maintenance to avoid detoriration

●  Not ideal for commercial or industrial applications

Steel

Steel is good to use in rough environments such as warehouses and industrial facilities. However, it’s important to note that steel ladders are not corrosion-resistant. If you plan to install it outdoors, you will need to have it galvanized, painted, or made with stainless steel to meet ladder regulations.  

Pros:

●  Suitable for heavy-duty work

●  More affordable than fiberglass and aluminum ladders

●  Rot-resistant

Cons:

●  Heat and electricity conductors

●  Vulnerable to moisture, corrosion, and rusting

●  Requires regular maintenance

●  Heavier than fiberglass and aluminum ladders

Fiberglass

Fiberglass ladders are the newest innovation of the ladder manufacturing industry. They don’t bend or weaken in hot temperatures. Additionally, they are lighter than wood ladders but are heavier and denser than aluminum ladders.

In comparison to aluminum ladders, fiberglass ladders are more difficult to work with because of their weight. Setting installation difficulties aside, the high cost of fiberglass also serves as one of its major disadvantages. However, if you need a non-conductive ladder, fiberglass can be your best option.

Pros:

●  Non-conductors of electricity and heat

●  Durable, doesn’t crack or splinter, built to last a long time

●  Rot-resistant

●  Has several color options

 Cons:

●  Not ideal for heavy-duty work

●  More expensive

●  Heavier than aluminum ladders

 Aluminum

Aluminum ladders are very popular among industrial companies as they are durable, lightweight, and affordable. Moreover, you won’t have to worry about maintaining aluminum ladders because they are corrosion-resistant.

 Pros:

●  Affordable

●  Corrosion-resistant

●  Durable, won’t deteriorate in harsh weather

●  Lightweight can be installed quicker

●  Non-spark and non-magnetic

●  High strength material suitable for heavy-duty work

Our Verdict

From the list above, it’s evident that the top choice is aluminum ladders. The advantages of aluminum ladders are tried and tested for generations. Since they are affordable and virtually maintenance-free, it’s no surprise that they’re the most popular type.

But before you start collecting options, you should take some time to evaluate your situation. Along with your local ladder regulations, you should consider factors such as its angle placement and purpose. Once you’ve addressed these concerns, you can start assessing which ladder material will work best for you.

Suppose your company requires heavy-duty work with ladders. In that case, you should opt for aluminum as it has an excellent strength-to-weight ratio compared to other ladder types with a high tendency to snap under excess pressure.

Select the Best Industrial Ladder

Choosing the right ladder material is essential to everyone’s safety. Depending on your purpose, some ladders are more or less fit for the job. As you do your research, see that the type of ladder you choose is durable, budget-friendly, and practical for your situation. Check out O’Keeffe’s lightweight, high strength, corrosion-resistant, OSHA and ANSI compliant industrial ladders for safe and high-quality aluminum ladders.

How to Properly Inspect Your Industrial Ladders

Posted by & filed under Workplace Safety, Sales.

Workplace safety is vital in any business, as it allows everyday operations to flow without hiccups. Depending on your industry, workplace safety can cover everything from sufficient lighting and adequate ventilation to proper traffic movement and well-maintained equipment or machinery.

Implementing workplace safety is particularly crucial in hazardous environments. Since some jobs are more dangerous than others, employees working in accident-prone areas must take extra precautions.

Whether you employ staff for telecommunications, maintenance, or repair services, the use of fixed ladders to ascend high areas or climb down manholes entails safety practices. The goal is to proactively control and eliminate active threats to get your workers and other people out of harm’s way.

To ensure that accidents are prevented, this guide will teach you how to inspect your industrial ladders properly.

Best Practices for Ladder Safety

If you operate in a high-risk industry, conducting safety inspections of equipment, such as roof access ladders, must be a standard operating procedure. It’s essential to have all bases covered, so we’re making things easier for you with this ladder inspection checklist.

1. Review OSHA regulations and standards

The Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA) enforces rules and regulations on workplace safety to help employers design work environments that can prevent illnesses, injuries, accidents, or deaths among employees while on the job.

Before you can conduct a ladder safety inspection, you must be aware of OSHA standards regarding fall prevention to help you to identify focus areas.

A quick check on the OSHA website and resources can go a long way. Not only will you be certain that you’re on the right track regarding compliance, but you’ll also be aware of industry trends, updates, and best practices that you can implement in your organization.

It won’t hurt to familiarize yourself with the quality standards of the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) regarding business processes and systems, either.

2. Create a fixed schedule to conduct periodical checks

Routine checks on ladders are necessary to ensure they’re in excellent form and suitable for your organizational usage requirements. The type of ladder is only one way to determine how often it should be inspected.

So, even if you know that fixed access ladders should be inspected at least once a year, you may want to consider other factors. This includes how often they’re being used, exposure to unwanted environmental elements like salt air, relevant mechanisms installed on your ladders, and others.

From there, you can decide on the ideal frequency of testing your ladder systems. This schedule must be followed so you can catch any safety issues before it’s too late.

3. Look for cracks, loose bolts, and other noticeable defects

Ladders in good condition aren’t supposed to show any sign of damage. As you inspect them visually, watch out for any of the following safety hazards:

  •  Loose or missing nails, screws, or bolts and nuts
  •  Brackets that might not be secure enough to attach the ladder to a building, equipment, or structure, such as a roof
  • Rough edges, splinters, or protrusions that can cut through the skin or clothing

Here, the main thing to remember is not to apply a temporary fix if you see something is off, such as using duct tape to tie up loose parts. What you should do is tag the ladder as out of service so others would know that they should not use it until repairs are made

4. Search for signs of corrosion

Ladder inspections must include checking the entire structure or system for rust, which indicates that the ladder is deteriorating and may not be structurally sound. These components require a close look as they are prone to corrosion: rungs, rails, fasteners, anchors and extension anchors, hatches, and grab bars, among others.

Should you find corroded components, do not take chances and put up a warning sign right away that the ladder is not safe for use. The last thing you want is for an unaware employee to climb a ladder that can easily break because its integrity is already compromised.

This is where having an aluminum fixed access ladder is most helpful. Aluminum is naturally corrosion-resistant, which means fewer maintenance fees and lower lifetime costs. Learn more about the many benefits of choosing aluminum ladders here.

5. Check on the rungs, side rails, and cages

Fixed ladders have two main parts—the rungs (the horizontal bars for stepping) and side rails (the vertical bars for holding). Cages should also be installed on fixed ladders with a height of more than 20 feet (6.1 meters) as barriers or enclosures to prevent falling accidents. Each of these parts must work properly based on their intended use or purpose.

As such, the rungs should have no missing steps and be clear of greasy or slippery substances that could result in someone slipping. The rails should be steady without any sign of distortion, or else holding on to it might be a problem. Inside the cage, there must be no obstruction that can make the personal fall arrest system unusable or ineffective.

6. Specify repair requirements for damaged ladders

At this point, you need to report any defect or damage you’ve discovered during the inspection to facilitate the repair or replacement of faulty components. Details like where the flaws were noted, the extent of the problem, and the recommended solutions must be reported.

7. Develop a data inspection sheet

The last step entails creating a data inspection sheet that summarizes the results of your inspection. Your ladder data inspection sheet must contain OSHA safety benchmarks alongside your observed ratings for each component of your fixed ladder installations.

This practice helps you see how well you’re complying with general and specific regulations on workplace safety and ladder safety and the improvements you have to make moving forward. The datasheet also serves as a reference for future inspections you’ll be carrying out.

Any pattern of recurring problems will be easier to spot and, from there, you should be able to look for a better way of doing things.

All The Way To The Top

Preventing workplace accidents is a responsibility that you must take seriously. In the industrial sector, workplace safety goes beyond restricting high-risk areas only to authorized and trained personnel. Regular inspections of those areas and the relevant equipment are necessary, too.

O’Keeffe’s is proud to carry a wide range of fixed ladder systems that are guaranteed safe, reliable, and in line with OSHA and ANSI standards to propel your business to success. Check out our offerings of quality commercial ladders.