895 Deck Barge Safety

Preventing Falls From Ladders

Deck barge workers should use the following safe practices when working on ladders:

• Avoid overextension: Avoid overextending the body when performing tasks such as checking sounders, checking lights, and wiring rigging, which can lead to falls from ladders. Leaning too far in any direction can cause the ladder to shift or the worker to lose balance, leading to a fall.
• Proper contact with the ladder: Always maintain three-points of contact on a ladder—two hands and a foot, or two feet and a hand—so that only one limb is in motion at any one time. Maintaining three points of contact helps keep the worker stable and balanced, reducing the chance of falling.
• Use ladders only for their designed purpose: For instance, step ladders should not be used as portable rung ladders. Ladders are designed for specific uses, and using them incorrectly can cause them to collapse or tip over.
• Positioning the ladder: Position the ladder so that for every four feet in height, the ladder extends out from the vertical surface at the base approximately one foot. Maintaining this 4:1 ratio ensures proper balance and prevents the ladder from sliding backward or falling.
• Make sure that the ladder is long enough for the job: If used for access to an upper landing surface, the side rails must extend at least three feet above that surface. Extending the ladder three feet above the landing gives the worker a handhold for safe entry and exit, reducing fall risk.
• Ladder footing and stability: Make sure that there is proper footing to keep the ladder from slipping or sliding. A ladder set on uneven or slick ground can shift under weight, leading to loss of balance and possible injury.
• Tie the ladder to a secure object: The ladder is secured to a vessel that can move. Use the buddy system, if possible, so one person can hold the ladder to stop it from moving. Securing or having someone hold the ladder helps prevent it from moving due to vessel motion or uneven weight shifts.
• Never use portable metal ladders near energized electrical equipment: Keep ladders away from electrical conductors or electric arc welding machines. Metal ladders conduct electricity and can cause severe shock or electrocution if they contact live electrical parts.
• Body position while on the ladder: Keep your body near the middle of the step and always face the ladder while climbing. Staying centered on the ladder keeps your weight balanced and prevents tipping or losing your footing.
• Moving the ladder while in use: Do not move, shift, or extend ladders while in use. Get off the ladder and then move it instead of stretching or leaning to the side to reach your work. Leaning too far or adjusting the ladder while on it causes instability and can result in a fall.
• Using tools while on the ladder: Use hand lines or a tool bag/belt to keep hands free when using a ladder. Keeping both hands free to hold the ladder improves grip and balance, reducing the chance of slipping.

• Use of guardrails: An adequate guard rail should be installed or employees should wear Personal Fall Arrest Systems when work is being performed above a solid surface to prevent falls from the barge to the dock.
• Use gangplank guardrails: Use gangplanks with guardrails to prevent falls on the dock or pilings. Guardrails on gangplanks provide support and prevent workers from slipping or stepping off the edge.
• Cover or guard deck holes: All deck holes, openings, and hatches should be covered or guarded. Uncovered openings can cause workers to trip or fall into them, resulting in serious injuries.
• Using pigeon holes: Pigeon holes, small enclosed storage compartments or spaces, should not be used to access barge walking or working surfaces. Their small openings are not designed for safe access and can lead to slips, trips, or getting stuck during entry or exit.

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