Preventing Unauthorized Use of Ladders…What’s the Cost?
Derek Tokarz • Certified in Safety Management Group's Training in Fall Protection
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We can all picture the horror story where someone in a playful mood, or not in their full senses, climbs the fixed ladder going up the side of the building. It’s dark and wet and there’s a howling wind…you get the picture.
As a ladder manufacturer, we have a duty to meet code and offer a security door or security gate for new construction or retrofit. As a contractor or architect you need to make sure that your clients are aware of the dangers of not preventing unauthorized access. OK it may add to the initial cost (slightly) but in the long run, it could save what you can’t put a price on…a life.
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LD426 Lockable Security Door
The lockable security door can be used on ladders with and without cages, and you can retrofit it to many non-KATT fixed ladders too. The aluminum checker plate door is 7’ high x 2’ 1 ½” wide. It is secured to the ladder body by padlock (not supplied) through lugs that are fixed to the ladder body. The 10 5/8” flanges on either side prevent anyone from climbing the rear of the ladder. The door is also supplied with carry handles for easy mounting and de-mounting.
LD425 Ladder Cage gate
The ladder cage gate can only be used on KATT caged ladders. It is fixed to the lowest hoop of the cage by hinges and secured by a padlock through a lug fixed to the other side of the hoop.
Whilst in place, this cage gate prevents anyone from climbing up through the caged part of the ladder. Authorized users can simply release the padlock and swing the gate down on its hinges.
Once opened, the cage entry is clear for the user to carry on climbing.
Some people use both of the above (so long as you have a caged ladder). For ultimate security, we recommend a cage or fence with a door/gate around the base of the ladder. This ensures that people don’t tamper with the fixed ladder or attempt to scale it in any way.
It’s our mantra – Maximum Safety Minimum fuss.
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