1. (a) The cellar(s) at every well shall be provided with entrances and exits as follows:

   1. (1) The entrance to the bottom of a multiwell cellar that is greater than two and one-half feet (2 1/2′) deep shall be by means of a stairway and shall terminate in an unobstructed area at the cellar floor. The entrance shall be at least three feet (3′) wide and shall have a vertical clearance of at least six and one-half feet (6 1/2′). The entrance to the bottom of a single well cellar that is greater than two and one-half feet (2 1/2′) deep shall be by means of a fixed or secured portable ladder or a stairway.

      1. (A) When the running length of the cellar exceeds 25 feet, a stairway shall be provided at both ends of the cellar.
      2. (B) In cellars exceeding twenty-five feet (25′) running length, a fixed ladder, a secured portable ladder or stairway shall be provided with unobstructed access and located no more than fifty (50′) feet apart. The fixed ladder side rail extension at the cellar floor may be of the removable type.
      3. (C) Where possible, the ladder shall be so located as to provide a clearance of twenty-four inches (24″) outward on the climbing side. Where the size of the cellar or necessary placement of equipment does not permit the full twenty-four inches (24″) clearance, the ladder shall be located so as to provide the maximum clearance available, and in no case less than fourteen inches (14″).

   2. (2) Exit from the top of the ladder leading from the cellar, or from the top of the cellar wall where no ladders are required, shall be provided by one of the following means:

      1. (A) A passageway under the derrick or mast floor leading to an unobstructed area at ground level.
      2. (B) A fixed ladder leading to the top of the derrick or mast floor.
      3. (C) A combination of a passageway and a fixed ladder leading to the top of the derrick or mast floor.

   3. (3) The passageway under the derrick or mast floor shall be at least two feet (2′) wide.

      Where the height of the substructure and necessary placement of equipment does not permit a full six and one-half feet (6 1/2′) vertical height above ground level, the maximum height available shall be used, but in no case shall it be less than four feet (4′) above the ground level.

      Beams of the substructure and pipe lines may be permitted horizontally across the passageway at ground level if an unobstructed vertical clearance of at least three feet (3′) above such beams or pipe lines is maintained. Beams of the substructure or pipe lines shall not be permitted longitudinally within the two feet (2′) width of the passageway.

Note: Authority cited: Section 142.3, Labor Code. Reference: Section 142.3, Labor Code.

History

1. Amendment of section and new Note filed 5-8-95; operative 6-7-95 (Register 95, No. 19).