Fixed Industrial Ladder Width
Fixed Industrial Ladder Width
(OP)
Is there a maximum width between ladder rails for fixed ladders? Background for the question is I designed a steel platform to support a new equipment installation. The new platform is to be accessed from an existing platform that is 24" lower. A ladder was shown for access with a flared 24" top for a step through application with the railings narrowing for a 16" clear rung distance length. The steel fabricator showed straight rails with 24" clear rung length. I question if that was acceptable per OSHA, but accepted it after I was unable to find any reference to a maximum length of rung after spending a fair amount of time looking for it.
What I showed is a common ladder detail that I've seen and used for years, but I can't find the basis for it. Any references or insight will be appreciated.
Thanks,
smb
What I showed is a common ladder detail that I've seen and used for years, but I can't find the basis for it. Any references or insight will be appreciated.
Thanks,
smb





RE: Fixed Industrial Ladder Width
Try OSHA 1926.451(e)(3)(iii) Look over this area becasue there is a difference between "attachable" (11'') versus "fixed" (16'')
RE: Fixed Industrial Ladder Width
However your recommended design load of 250lbs and FS of 4 caused me to pause because they seem high. I've been using 200lbs for the load and FS of 1.67. Am I missing a revised standard?
RE: Fixed Industrial Ladder Width
OSHA says you must use a 4:1 SF aganst all known live loads. This is generally figured against the ultimate capactiy of the steel or by actual testing.
RE: Fixed Industrial Ladder Width
Similar width should serve as benchmark for the fixed ladders under normal circumstance ensuring quick and safe getting-on and coming-off.
Moreover the wight considerationmay and possibly should vary from area to area however 300 ponds and with tools,extra loads around 350 ponds seems considerable indeed!
OSHA people or those on OSHA's panels/committees may further enlighten us.
Best Regards
Qalander(Chem)
RE: Fixed Industrial Ladder Width
My point is OSHA provides no definitive values or methods for structural design, and has contradicting information. I'd appreciate a discussion from them on the basis of their standards. For me the biggest knock against OSHA is that they are strictly an enforcement agency. You fear their involvement after an injury/tragedy occurs and they are not seen or heard being proactive to avoid it.