WAC 296-307-26009. How to determine if fixed stairs are required

Fixed stairs must be provided for: (1) Employee access from one structure level to another where operations require regular travel between levels. (2) Employee access to operating platforms on any equipment that requires regular attention during operations. (3) Employees that need daily access to elevations, or access at each shift, for purposes such as gauging, inspection, regular maintenance, etc., where: (a) The work may expose employees to acids, caustics, gases, or other harmful substances; or (b) Employees must normally carry tools or equipment by hand. Note: This section does not prohibit the use of fixed ladders for access to elevated tanks, towers, and similar structures, overhead traveling cranes, etc., where the use of fixed ladders is common practice.