On February 12, 2018, a plant operator was assisting another miner in removing a head pulley. While ascending a 12-foot step ladder, the victim’s foot slipped and he slid down the ladder. The victim was treated for a broken ankle at a nearby hospital.
Best Practices
- Use fall protection when working in an elevated position and securely tie-off where the danger of falling exist.
- Provide and maintain safe access to all work areas. Train miners on how to safely access all work areas.
- Provide scaffolding or other types of temporary work platforms when working from a ladder does not provide sufficient stability or access for the task.
- Use a ladder only on a stable and level surface.
- Keep ladders free of any slippery materials on the steps or rungs.
- Wear proper footwear and keep it clean of potential slipping hazards such as dirt, oil, and grease before getting onto a ladder.
- Always face the ladder and maintain three points of contact (two hands and a foot, or two feet and a hand) when climbing or descending.
- Do not carry personal items or supplies when climbing or descending a ladder. Use a cord or rope to lift or lower supplies or tools.