Industrial Code § 23-1.22 Structural Runways, Ramps, and Platforms
Section 23-1.22 provides various protections to workers on work sites who
must use runways, ramps, and platforms. The code does not provide regulations
for runways made of gravel, stone, earth, or any other similar embankment.
The code does provide restrictions and requirements regarding the structure
of the runways, ramps, and platforms, as well as size and height regulations.
Runways and Ramps
All ramps and runways must be substantially made and secured with braces
and supports. If the ramp or runway is to be used by vehicles, it must
meet certain requirements:
- The ramp or runway must be no less than 12 feet
in width for a single lane or 24 feet in width for two lanes.
- The ramp or runway must have timber curbs measuring
10 inches by 10 inches and must be full size timber located parallel to
the sides of the ramp or runway, and secured.
- The ramp or runway
must have flooring that is effectively secured protecting against movement,
and have planking measuring three inches thick or more or metal equal
in strength.
If the runway or ramp is to be used to persons only, the length must be
at least 18 inches wide and have planking at least 2 inches minimum or
metal of equal strength. It must be supported and braced to protect the
workers from excess spring, deflection, or movement. If planking is necessary,
it should be butt jointed in nailed secure. If the runway or ramp is higher
than four feet from the ground or surface level, safety railings must
be provided.
For use of wheelbarrows on the ramps and runways, the width must be a minimum
of 48 inches, constructed of planking at least two inches thick or equally
strong metal. They must also have timber curbs and bracing in four-foot
intervals.
Platforms
To protect workers on platforms, certain requirements must be met. For
instance, the floor planking must be at least two inches thick full size,
metal of equal strength, or exterior grade plywood measuring three-quarters
of an inch thick when used as a working area or to unload hand carts or
trucks, power buggies, or wheelbarrows. If used for vehicles, the planking
must be three inches thick full size or made of an equally strong metal.
Should the platform stand more than seven feet above the ground or working
surface, safety railings must be provided on all sides except for the
side used for loading or unloading. These sides should have 10 inch by
10 inch timber curbs for protection when using a vehicle. If the side
is being used for wheelbarrows, hand carts or hand trucks, or power buggies,
the timber curbs should measure a minimum of two inches by eight inches.
All needle beam scaffold platforms, ladder jack scaffold platforms, floats
and rivet heater platforms, and trestle and extension trestle ladder scaffold
platforms are exempt from the requirements of safety curbs and railings.
Injured? Call a New York City Construction Accident Lawyer
Did your employer fail to provide the necessary safety measures before
having you work on a platform, runway, or ramp? Were you injured as a
result? It is important to understand your rights and speak with a New
York City construction accident attorney who understands the New York
City Labor Codes. At The Perecman Firm, P.L.L.C., we know how to protect
the rights of our clients, guiding them through the often complex legal
system and helping them seek the compensation they deserve. If you have
been harmed, don’t hesitate in calling our firm at (212) 577-9325
and speaking with us about what options you may have.
