OSHA Seeks to Clarify Walking-Working Surfaces Standard
OSHA has proposed updates in the handrail and stair rail system requirements for its general industry, Walking-Working Surfaces standard.
OSHA’s final rule addressing walking-working surfaces and personal protective equipment was published in November 2016. Requirements for slip, trip and fall hazards were updated at that time. Since then, the agency has received numerous questions asking when handrails are required, and about the height requirements for handrails on stairs and stair rail systems.
According to the agency, the proposed updates do not reopen for discussion any of the regulatory decisions made in the 2016 rulemaking. Rather, they focus solely on clarifying some of the requirements for handrails and stair rail systems finalized in 2016, and on providing flexibility in the transition to OSHA’s newer requirements.
To learn more about the proposed changes and/or submit comments, visit: www.regulations.gov/document/OSHA-2020-0009-0001.
