TM 55-203
(b) As nearly as possible, the eye
(2)
A substantial railing at the proper
should look through the center of each lens.
height (usually 42 inches) should be securely installed
on all open sides of scaffolds. Toeboards should be
(c) The bridge strap or bead chain
used to prevent tools and material from slipping.
should be adjusted to a comfortable fit.
c.
Falls From Ladders
(d) The headband on cup goggles
should be carefully adjusted with just enough tension to
(1) A good ladder of the right type and
hold the goggles secure. The band should be worn low
length for the job should be used The ladder should be
on the back of the head.
properly placed and secured against slipping by lashing,
use of safety feet, or having another man hold the
(e)
The bow on spectacle goggles
ladder when conditions require.
should hook behind the ear close to the head and should
touch the ear evenly, not just at one or two points.
(2) Since personnel fall more frequently
going down ladders than up them, special care should
21-15. Rules for Prevention of Falls
be taken in descending (descend facing the ladder). A
secure grip on the ladder with the foot firmly on the
The prevention of falls of personnel engaged in the
ladder rung is important. If the foot should slip while the
maintenance of railway cars in one of the major accident
grip is relaxed, a fall is difficult to prevent. Jumping
problems. When an injury results from a fall, the true
from lower rungs to the ground frequently causes falls.
cause should be determined and the responsibility fixed.
Tools and material should be kept away from the base
The following are some of the most common causes of
of the ladder.
falls: a. Falls Caused by Slipping
d.
Falls From Stairs or Steps.
Where a
(1)
Walks,
steps,
footboards,
and
handrail is provided, it should be used. Where no
gangways should be kept free from ice or snow as far as
handrail is provided, additional care should be used.
practicable. Salt should be kept available for this
The feet should be carefully placed to avoid missteps.
purpose. Sand and ashes should be used where ice or
Running or undue haste should be avoided.
snow cannot be removed.
e.
Falls Caused by Tripping
(2)
Good housekeeping will prevent
many falls on wet, oily, or greasy surfaces or on objects
(1)
Personnel must be alert to avoid
such as stones, coal, bolts, and nuts. Personnel should
tripping over fixed objects such as switch stands, rails,
be cautioned to watch for ground irregularities and place
and machinery. The eyes provide the best protection.
their feet carefully.
Work location should be properly lighted. Hand lamps
or flashlights should be used to light pathways.
b.
Falls From Scaffolds
(2)
Good housekeeping will prevent falls
(1)
To prevent falls from scaffolds,
over removable objects such as tools, equipment, ties,
planks, braces, supports, and other parts should be of
or drawbars.
adequate strength and should be bolted securely.
Failure to assemble securely all parts of a scaffold often
results In falls.
21-8
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