jpjunker
Structural
- Jan 24, 2011
- 1
thread190-159862
I found an OSHA interpretation relating to this issue at the following link.
The interpretation basically clarifies that the distance from the ground to the bottom rung of a ladder is not included when the OSHA rule 1910.27(b)(1)(ii) states "The distance between rungs, cleats, and steps shall not exceed 12 inches and shall be uniform throughout the length of the ladder."
Text of interpretation letter below:
29 CFR 1910.27(b)(1)(ii)
March 20, 1975
Mr. Raymond F. Pusezan
Senior Staff Engineer
The Quaker Oats Company
Merchandise Mart Plaza
Chicago, Illinois 60654
Dear Mr. Pusezan:
Assistant Secretary John H. Stender has asked me to respond to your letter dated March 10, 1975, requesting a variance from Section 1910.27(b)(1)(ii) Fixed Ladders - Rungs and Cleats, of the Occupational Safety and Health Standards.
Our technical staff has carefully reviewed your application. It has been determined that you are meeting the intent of the standard which is to provide a uniform clear distance of 12" equally spaced between rungs of your ladders on the described project.
You have stated that your first step will vary from 4" to 12" above the concrete slab at grade or above the lower platform landing. You have further stated, that the top of the ladder and the center line of the top rung would be at the same elevation. All other rungs on your fixed ladders will be equally spaced at 12". It would appear that you are providing uniform spacing of rungs for the user of the ladders.
The intent of this standard is to eliminate a continuing change of the uniform distance between rungs. This is not the case in your situation. Therefore, a variance is unnecessary.
No further action will be taken on your variance application.
Sincerely
Barry J. White
Associate Assistant Secretary for
Regional Programs
I found an OSHA interpretation relating to this issue at the following link.
The interpretation basically clarifies that the distance from the ground to the bottom rung of a ladder is not included when the OSHA rule 1910.27(b)(1)(ii) states "The distance between rungs, cleats, and steps shall not exceed 12 inches and shall be uniform throughout the length of the ladder."
Text of interpretation letter below:
29 CFR 1910.27(b)(1)(ii)
March 20, 1975
Mr. Raymond F. Pusezan
Senior Staff Engineer
The Quaker Oats Company
Merchandise Mart Plaza
Chicago, Illinois 60654
Dear Mr. Pusezan:
Assistant Secretary John H. Stender has asked me to respond to your letter dated March 10, 1975, requesting a variance from Section 1910.27(b)(1)(ii) Fixed Ladders - Rungs and Cleats, of the Occupational Safety and Health Standards.
Our technical staff has carefully reviewed your application. It has been determined that you are meeting the intent of the standard which is to provide a uniform clear distance of 12" equally spaced between rungs of your ladders on the described project.
You have stated that your first step will vary from 4" to 12" above the concrete slab at grade or above the lower platform landing. You have further stated, that the top of the ladder and the center line of the top rung would be at the same elevation. All other rungs on your fixed ladders will be equally spaced at 12". It would appear that you are providing uniform spacing of rungs for the user of the ladders.
The intent of this standard is to eliminate a continuing change of the uniform distance between rungs. This is not the case in your situation. Therefore, a variance is unnecessary.
No further action will be taken on your variance application.
Sincerely
Barry J. White
Associate Assistant Secretary for
Regional Programs
