Recently, we received the following question from a subscriber: I need to install a 30-foot fixed ladder as a secondary egress point for an underground pump station. There are two intermediary levels where a step-off will be required. What type of fall protection would be required if I enclose the ladder in a cage?
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Here’s our answer:
29 CFR 1926.1053(a)(19) states that fall protection must be provided whenever the length of climb on a fixed ladder equals or exceeds 24 feet. Also, fixed ladders shall be equipped with one of the following:
(i) Ladder safety devices; or
(ii) Self-retracting lifelines, and rest platforms at intervals not to exceed 150 feet (45.7 m); or
(iii) A cage or well, and multiple ladder sections, each ladder section not to exceed 50 feet (15.2 m) in length. Ladder sections shall be offset from adjacent sections, and landing platforms shall be provided at maximum intervals of 50 feet (15.2 m).
The rule allows employers to choose among these methods of ensuring employees will be able to safely complete an ascent/descent on a fixed ladder.
For general industry, an OSHA letter of interpretation states that a fixed ladder used for emergency egress only does not have to comply with the cage and platform requirements of 29 CFR 1910.27. However, the employer should post “Emergency Use Only” signs at both ends of the ladder.