ErectaStep OSHA Metal Stairs
Categories: Stairs & Work Platforms Energy – Petroleum, LPG, Solar Industrial Power Plants ErectaStep Facility
This Job Needed to Add a Step to be OSHA Compliant.
Metal Stairs Improve Safety and Accessibility in Production Facilities
Any production facility is filled with obstructions like pipelines and machinery, making movement difficult. Metal stairs provide a safe, durable, and low-maintenance solution for navigating these obstacles, ensuring worker safety and operational efficiency.
Metal stairs are durable and low maintenance, making them ideal for facilities such as oil depots. By implementing proper stair systems, companies can reduce workplace hazards and improve accessibility for employees.
Preventing Slip, Trip, and Fall Hazards
Before requiring the use of personal protective equipment (PPE), it’s essential to identify and mitigate risks such as slips, trips, and falls. This includes:
- Inspecting pathways for hazards
- Applying engineering controls
- Implementing administrative safety policies
For example, OSHA regulations require an additional step when an obstruction to access stairs has a height of more than 9.5 inches (24 centimeters).
What is the maximum rise or depth before OSHA requires an extra step?
9.5 inches (24 centimeters)
Slippery Work Environments and Footwear Solutions
In wet or icy conditions, slip-resistant shoes can be a temporary solution, but elevated grates, platforms, and ice cleats offer more effective protection. Contractors may also install concrete pads to stabilize stairways and prevent wobbling.
According to the Department of the Interior, slips, trips, and falls account for:
- 23% of worker injuries
- 36% of deaths in the oil and gas industry
For more insights, read the Department of the Interior report on preventing slip-and-fall injuries in the oil and gas sector.
The Importance of Maintenance in Oil Depots
In 24/7 operational facilities, proper maintenance is essential for worker safety. Unchecked leaks from pipelines, pumps, and valves can cause hazardous oil spills, increasing the risk of slips and falls.
- Regular equipment servicing prevents hazardous leaks
- Planned maintenance reduces the risk of unexpected failures
- Non-slip flooring should be cleaned regularly for better traction
Pipelines, grease recovery systems, and pump trucks all require frequent inspections to prevent spills and high-pressure gas leaks that could endanger workers.
The Benefits of Aluminum Metal Stairs in Oil Terminals
To minimize workplace hazards, investing in proper metal stairs and platforms is crucial. Compared to wood or concrete, aluminum stairs offer:
- Higher durability
- Resistance to rot and corrosion
- Easy maintenance and cleaning
- Improved traction in spill-prone environments
By installing the right metal stair system, oil terminals can ensure safe operations and protect workers from avoidable hazards.