Footwalks and ladder standards

Crane footwalks and ladders

To lower the risk of falls from overhead and gantry cranes, OSHA defines safety requirements for walking surfaces, toeboards, ladders and stairways. All footwalks, or service platforms, must be made with an anti-slip surface, meet specified load and headroom requirements, and include toeboards and handrails for operators’ and technicians’ protection. This section also requires handrails for stairways.

We build all Konecranes overhead and gantry cranes to satisfy these safety specifications. Our technicians can inspect your existing equipment to help you meet OSHA’s compliance requirements.

 

OSHA 1910.179 Overhead & Gantry Cranes Regulations

The following excerpt is taken directly from OSHA 1910.179.*

Location of footwalks

  • If sufficient headroom is available on cab-operated cranes, a footwalk shall be provided on the drive side along the entire length of the bridge of all cranes having the trolley running on the top of the girders.
  • Where footwalks are located in no case shall less than 48 inches of headroom be provided.

Construction of footwalks

  • Footwalks shall be of rigid construction and designed to sustain a distributed load of at least 50 pounds per square foot.
  • Footwalks shall have a walking surface of anti-slip type. NOTE: Wood will meet this requirement.
  • The inner edge shall extend at least to the line of the outside edge of the lower cover plate flange of the girder.

Toeboards and handrails for footwalks

  • Toeboards and handrails shall be in compliance with section §1910.23 of this part.

Ladders and stairways

  • Gantry cranes shall be provided with ladders or stairways extending from the ground to the footwalk or cab platform.
  • Stairways shall be equipped with rigid and substantial metal handrails.
  • Walking surfaces shall be of an anti-slip type.
  • Ladders shall be permanently and securely fastened in place and shall be constructed in compliance with §1910.27.

For the well-being of your crane operators and other personnel—and to ensure that your current equipment complies with safety standards—contact us today for an inspection.

 

Learn more about Konecranes inspections and preventive maintenance

 

 

*The foregoing OSHA regulations are not intended to be a comprehensive overview of all applicable regulations pertaining to the designated topic. State laws may mandate different safety and maintenance standards. Accordingly, please consult applicable state laws as well as original equipment manufacturer specifications for further guidance. The statements and descriptions contained herein constitute the opinion/recommendation of the seller and are not intended to create any express warranties.