UNE EN ISO 14122
The UNE EN ISO 14122 standard is a set of standards divided into four parts that establish the safety requirements needed for permanent means of access to machinery. Its purpose is to reduce the risk of accidents associated with falls from different heights or unsafe access. It contains the design and manufacturing requirements for the corresponding safety systems with which we make industrial environments safe. Within these four parts, both Part 3 and Part 4 contain the specific criteria applicable to fixed ladders.
This type of ladder is part of the permanent means of access. Its main function is to allow workers safe and continuous passage, so it must meet the criteria established in this standard in its design, manufacture, and maintenance.
In this article, we will focus on the maintenance of these fixed ladders and its importance in ensuring that this safety system performs its function.
The Importance of Fixed Ladder Maintenance
The UNE EN ISO 14122 standard not only sets out the design and manufacturing criteria for fixed ladders; it also refers to the importance of carrying out maintenance, and keeping track of it, so that we can guarantee the safety of the system throughout its service life. That is why maintenance is one of the fundamental parts of ensuring this safety.
We often fall into the mistaken way of thinking that, once this type of ladder is installed, its usefulness is guaranteed indefinitely. The reality is that continuous exposure to the elements, accumulated dirt, daily use, or simply the passage of time can cause the system to deteriorate prematurely if proper maintenance is not carried out, putting safety at risk.
This standard does not set exact dates, but it does stipulate that periodic inspections must be carried out and documented, in order to maintain thorough control and to serve as a guide for taking the appropriate corrective or preventive actions.
What Should These Inspections Include?
Maintenance tasks must be adapted to each type of fixed ladder, but in general they include:
- Inspection of additional safety elements: If other safety systems have been installed together with the ladder, we will also check their condition.
- Visual inspection of the system: This allows us to check for rust, deformation, accumulated dirt, or other substances.
- Verification of fixings: Anchors must be firm and tightened to the proper torque.
- Inspection of rungs and landings: Check that they are not loose, that there are no slippery surfaces, and that the anti-slip material has not deteriorated.
- Inspection of guardrails: Depending on the height of the ladder, it may need a protective guardrail, so we must check its components and fixings.
Besides inspecting these points, it is advisable to verify that there are no elements obstructing the passageways on these ladders and that adequate clear height is maintained.
Recommended Frequency of Fixed Ladder Inspections
Although the UNE EN ISO 14122 standard does not set a frequency for inspections and maintenance, we could follow these guidelines:
- Visual inspection: At least every 3 or 6 months.
- Full inspection: At least once a year.
- Corrective maintenance: Whenever the system shows any anomaly that compromises safety.
Another very important point is that these inspections should be carried out by duly qualified personnel with experience in the fall protection sector and in industrial installations. We must follow the system manufacturer’s instructions at all times, as well as keep documented records of the inspections and maintenance performed.
Consequences of Poor Maintenance of Ladders
Failing to properly maintain fixed ladders can create unnecessary risks, from falls to complete structural failures that can compromise the overall stability of these systems and, with it, safety. Besides personal injury, which in this case is the most important concern, we may also incur legal and financial liabilities that damage the company’s reputation, such as the consequences arising from an accident.
This responsibility lies with the owners of the facilities, so having a documented maintenance plan is a necessity in terms of occupational health and safety.
Conclusion
Meeting the requirements of the UNE EN ISO 14122 standard is not limited to designing and manufacturing fixed ladders according to its criteria. It also involves proper maintenance that ensures the system performs its functions over time. To that end, we will assess its condition at the indicated intervals.
This not only protects workers from possible accidents, but also ensures a proper risk prevention protocol.
Fixed ladder maintenance is therefore a key piece of safety. To that end, we will keep documented records, relying on industry professionals to carry out these tasks and always following the system manufacturer’s recommendations.