MSHA - Accident Prevention - Innovative Products - Folding Portable Truck Bed Ladders

MSHA's Accident Prevention Program Innovative Products "Folding Portable Truck Bed Ladders" PDF Version Disclaimer

Using a portable ladder is one option to avoid accidents/injuries caused when miners fall while accessing or when jumping off of truck beds. Portable folding ladders are available to adapt to flatbeds, vans, and straight truck beds. The ladders should be professionally engineered and designed with the following features:

Slip resistant/anti-skid steps
Non-pinching hinges
Mounts at appropriate working angle (i.e. 22 degrees)

Handhold/handrail features

Constructed of strong light weight material for portability and ease of handling/stowing

Appropriate working load capability

MSHA regulations require a safe means of access to be provided and maintained to all working places.

Persons using ladders shall always face the ladders and have both hands free for climbing and descending. MSHA recommends maintaining "three-points-of-contact" whenever climbing or descending ladders.

Portable rigid ladders shall be provided with suitable bases and placed securely when used.

For information on manufacturers that are known to MSHA to have such products available, contact MSHA's Applied Engineering Division at 304-547-2303 or e-mail zzMSHA-InnovativeProducts@dol.gov.

Issued:	05/04/2005
Tag #	AP2005-T89911