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904 Oil and Gas Well Inspection
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Stairways and Landings

Support Structure

Check that the support structure for the stairs is installed properly with all pins, bolts, and keepers in place. The structure should be solid and level with no large movements during use. Inspect any lifting eyes or fork pockets for damage and note for repair.

Image of tornado destruction
Bottom stair landings should be a solid level surface.

Landings

Check that bottom stair landings are a solid level surface with any drainage ditches routed away from landing areas. If pallets are used for stair landings, check that they do not have gaps larger than 1 inch between the boards. If necessary, the pallet should be covered with solid plywood to prevent trips caused by gaps in the landing surface. Inspect areas where doors or gates open directly onto a stairway. The landing must allow an effective width of at least 20 inches when the door swings open. Check that hand rails around landings are 42 inches high and withstand the 200 pound load test.

Make sure that active hand rails that are part of a stairway/landing system are not used for the storage of tools or equipment. If people can pass underneath the landing, a 4 inch toe board should be along the edge of the landing.

Stair Treads

Check that treads are evenly spaced, consistent throughout the run, clean and have a good non-skid lip. Also check that they are not bent or worn out and are unobstructed by tools or equipment.

Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.

5-3. What should be included on the landing if people can pass underneath it?