September 9, 2002—With a focus on reducing workplace falls, the second leading cause of on-the-job deaths, the American Society of Safety Engineers (ASSE) recently published the American National Standard A1264.1-1995 (R-2002) Safety Requirements for Workplace Floor and Wall Openings, Stairs and Railing Systems. The standard, first drafted in 1987, was reapproved June 6, 2002 by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI), acknowledging the standard as a workable guideline for safety professionals in helping reduce workplace falls from ladders, stairs, and floor and wall openings.
The A1264.1 standard establishes the minimum safety requirements for walking and working areas, including ladders and fixed stairs, to ensure a safe working environment. It defines the basic terms of wall and floor openings and holes from ladderways and risers to gates and hatchways. The standard focuses on the major components of safe entryways, including the requirements for fixed stairs, guardrails, and handrails, as well as the requirements for protecting open-sided floors, platforms, and runways. It also provides requirements for barriers and screens for wall openings as well as floor opening covers and treading for stairs.
A copy of the A1264.1 standard is available for $32 for ASSE members and $48 for non-members and can be ordered through the ASSE Web site or by calling 847/699-2929.
