Rev.

6a

OSHAFixedLadderEvaluations
Evaluated by:
Building #:
Height of Ladder (feet):
Roof Access
Roof Access with cage
Equipment Access (including cranes)
Roof Level Change
Other: ___________________

Location description:
Ladder ID#:
Date:
External Ladder
Internal Ladder
Manhole Ladder/rungs
Hinged ladder guard present
Key plan marked up with location
Deficiencies photographed

FINAL STATUS OF LADDER

Compliant (GREEN)
Non-Compliant - CAUTION (YELLOW)
Non-Compliant - OUT OF SERVICE (RED)

Note:CleatsservingmanholescanusedeviationsfromOSHA1910.27foundinASTMC47812(anacceptedOSHAconsensusstandard)aslong
asallASTMconditionsarepresent.ElevatorpitladderscanuseANSI17.110(anacceptedOSHAconsensusstandard)deviationsaslongas
allANSIconditionsarepresent.
Item

OSHA Ref.

Ladder/Manhole Access Design:

1a.

Mechanically sound and in good condition - for components required for stability are
secure and not broken.

1910.27(a)

1b.

Fasteners are an integral part of fixed ladder design.

1910.27(b)(3)

1c.

All splices and connections have smooth transition with original members and with no
sharp or extensive projections.

1910.27(b)(4)

Dissimilar metals are protected from electrolytic action where such metals are joined.

1910.27(b)(5)
ASTM C478-12
16.3.2.1

1e.

Side rails (on ladders) which might be used as a climbing aid are of such cross sections to
allow adequate gripping surface without sharp edges, splinters, or burrs. For "C" Channel
Side Rails, hand grip spans should not exceed 3" (palm side) by 1-3/8" (finger reach). L
channels are not acceptable by OSHA interpretation.

1910.27(b)(2)
ASTM C478-12
16.3.2.2

ASTM C478-12
16.4.1; 16.5.5

1f.

For Manholes: Steps in base section, riser and conical top sections shall be aligned in
each section so as to form a continuous ladder with rungs equally spaced vertically in the
assembled manhole. (The vertical spacing and vertical alignment between adjacent
manhole steps may vary 1 inch from the design dimension. See below for maximum
manhole rung spacing)

1d.

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Rev.6a

OSHAFixedLadderEvaluations
2
2a.
2b.
2c.1

Rungs and cleats:

Ladder minimum diameter 3/4 inch (round metal rungs) or 1 1/8 inch diameter (round wood
rungs). Note: if it is a flat hollow or C channel construction > 1.5 inches, is acceptable,
otherwise it must be evaluated by an engineer for load concentrations.
Individual metal rungs embedded in concrete (pits) minimum 1 inch diameter where
corrosion potential exists, otherwise 3/4 inch minimum diameter rungs that are protected
from corrosion or where no corrosion potential exists.
For Ladders: The distance between rungs, cleats, and steps does not exceed 12 inches
and is uniform throughout the length of the ladder. Note: the first rung is permitted to be
maximum 14 inches from base surface per ANSI A14.3 Sect 5.1.1.

1910.27(b)(1)(i)

Enter dimension:
1910.27(b)(7)(i)
ASTM C478-12
16.5.1
ASTM C478-12
16.5.1

For Manholes: The distance between rungs, cleats, and steps does not exceed 16 inches
and is uniform throughout the length of the ladder. (Note: The vertical spacing and vertical
ASTM C478-12
alignment between adjacent manhole steps may vary 1 inch from the design dimension.
16.4.1
The first rung is permitted to be maximum 14 inches from base surface per ANSI A14.3
Sect
5.1.1.
2.c.2

2d.1
2d.2
2e.

For Ladders: Minimum clear width of rungs or cleats is 16 inches.

ASTM C478-12
16.5.2
1910.27(b)(1)(iv)
Rungs, cleats, and steps are free of splinters, sharp edges, burrs, or projections which may
ASTM C478-12
be a hazard.
16.3.2.2
For Manholes: Minimum clear width of rungs or cleats is 10 inches.

2f.

Are rungs designed so that the foot cannot slide off the end. See figure D-1 for reference.

Protection from deterioration

3a.
3b.
3c.

1910.27(b)(1)(iii)

Enter spacing:

Enter spacing:
Enter clear rung width:
Enter clear rung width:

1910.27(b)(1)(v)

Metal ladders and appurtenances are painted or otherwise treated to resist corrosion and
rusting.

1910.27(b)(7)(i)

Wood ladders, when used under conditions where decay may occur, are treated with a
nonirritating preservative, and the accumulation of water on wood parts is minimized.
(Note: the use of wood is prohibited from manhole access systems)

1910.27(b)(7)(ii)

If different materials are used, are they compatible?

1910.27(b)(7)(iii)

OSHAFixedLadderChecklistRev6a09/25/12

Enter dimension:

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Rev.6a

OSHAFixedLadderEvaluations
4

Clearance

4a.

For Ladders: The perpendicular distance from the centerline of the rungs to the nearest
permanent object on the climbing side of the ladder is 36 inches for a for a pitch of 76
degrees, and 30 inches for a pitch of 90 degrees (Figure D-2).

4b.

4c.1

1910.27(c)(1)

Enter distance if not satisfactory:

A clear width of at least 15 inches is provided each way from the centerline of the ladder in
1910.27(c)(2)
the climbing space. (Does not apply when cages or wells are necessary).
For Ladders: Minimum 7 inches clearance from the centerline of rungs, cleats, or steps to
the nearest permanent object in back of the ladder (Figure D-3). Note 1: Using ASTM
C478-12 as guidance for ladders with restricted access for use, mark ladder out of service
1910.27(c)(4)
(Red) if less than 4 inches & mark caution (Yellow if at least 4 inches but less than 7
inches). Note 2: Using OSHA 1910.27 exemption, if object is within permitted area in
Figure D-3, then caution tag ladder (Yellow).

Enter distance if not satisfactory:

Enter distance & describe if not satisfactory:

For Manholes: The rung or cleat shall project a uniform clear distance of 3 3/4 inches
(minimum) to 6 1/4 inches (maximum for round) or 7 inches (maximum for retangular) from
the wall of the base, riser, or conical top section measured from the point of embedment to
ASTM C478-12
the embedment side of the rung. (Mark rungs less than 3 3/4 inches as red, over 6 1/4
16.5.3
inches for round or 7 inches for retangular to 9 inches as yellow and over 9 inches as red).
NOTEEmbedment point is considered the junction of the centerline of the step leg and
the wall of the base, riser or conical top section.

4c.2

4c.3
4d.
4e.

4f.
4g.

Enter distance & describe if not satisfactory:

For Elevator Pits: 4.5 in. dimension behind the ladder complies with OSHA
1925.1053(a)(13) and ANSI 17.1-10. (See Diagram on ANSI 17.1 Elevator Pit Ladders).
Note: If object is within permitted area for fixed ladders then caution tag the ladder
(Yellow). Otherwise mark the ladder Red.

1925.27c; ANSI
17.1-10, 2.2.4

When grab bars are provided for ladders: Minimum 4 inches clearance from the centerline
of the grab bar to the nearest permanent object in back of the grab bars.

1910.27(c)(5)

When grab bars are provided for ladders: Grab bars do not protrude on the climbing side
beyond the ladder rungs.

1910.27(c)(5)

Enter distance & describe if not satisfactory:

The step-across distance from the nearest edge of ladder to the nearest edge of
equipment or structure is between 2 1/2 and 12 inches for forward step through motion
(fig. D-4) and 15" to 20" for side step to a platform from center of the rung. Note: Ladder
1910.27(c)(6)
out of service if greater than 12 inches (or 20 inches side) or if edge projects beyond rungs.
Less than 2 1/2 inches is "Yellow" criteria for forward motion step offs.
Counterweighted hatch covers open a minimum of 60 degrees from the horizontal (Figure
1910.27(c)(7)
D-6).

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OSHAFixedLadderEvaluations
4h.1

4h.2
4i.

4j.

5
5a.

5b.

5c.

5d.

Rev.6a

For Ladders: The distance from the centerline of rungs or cleats to the edge of the hatch
opening on the climbing side is at least 24 inches for offset wells or 30 inches for straight
1910.27(c)(7)
wells. Note: Mark ladder out of service (Red) if less than 18 inches. Mark caution (Yellow)
if at least 18 inches but less than the above prescribed clearance.
For Manholes: The minimum clear distance between the rung or cleat and the opposite
wall of the base, riser, or conical top shall be 18 in. measured at the center face of the rung ASTM C478-12
or cleat. (Note: The horizontal distance from the inside wall to the centerline of a manhole 16.5.4; 16.5.5
step may vary 1 inch from the design dimension.
For Ladders: No protruding potential hazards within 24 inches of the centerline of rungs or
1910.27(c)(7)
cleats.
Deflector plates installed when protrusions within 30 inches of the centerline of the rungs or
1910.27(c)(7)
cleats (Figure D-5).

Cages or wells
Cages, wells or a ladder safety system is provided on ladders of more than 24 feet (ANSI
A14.3 4.1.1). See the dimensions shown in figures D-7, D-8, and D-9.

1910.27(d)(1)(ii)

Cages extend a minimum of 42 inches above the top of landing, unless other acceptable
protection is provided.

1910.27(d)(1)(iii)

Cages extend down the ladder to a point not less than 7 feet nor more than 8 feet above
the base of the ladder.

1910.27(d)(1)(iv)

Cage bottom flared at least 4 inches, or portion of cage opposite ladder extends to the
base.

1910.27(d)(1)(iv)

Cage is minimum 27 inches in width.

1910.27(d)(1)(v)

Cages extend between 27 and 28 inches from the centerline of the rungs of the ladder.

1910.27(d)(1)(v)

The inside of the cage or well is clear of projections.

1910.27(d)(1)(v)

Maximum spacing of vertical bars approximately 9 1/2 inches, center to center (40
degrees).

1910.27(d)(1)(v)

Ladder wells have a clear width of at least 15 inches measured each way from the
centerline of the ladder.

1910.27(d)(1)(vi)

Smooth-walled wells are a minimum of 27 inches from the centerline of rungs to the well
wall on the climbing side of the ladder. If other obstructions on the climbing side of the
ladder exist, a minimum of 30 inches from the centerline of the rungs is required.

1910.27(d)(1)(vi)

5e.

5f.

5g.

5h.

5i.

5j.

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OSHAFixedLadderEvaluations
6
6a.

6b.

Rev.6a

Landing Platforms & Extensions

Is ladderway floor opening or platform guarded by a standard railing with standard
1910.23(a)(2)
toeboard on all exposed sides (does not apply to roof hatches, elevator pits and manholes?
Is passage through the railing protected with a swinging gate or so offset (such as a
compliant raised landing) that a person cannot walk directly into the opening? (Note: If
chains are found on existing ladders with posting to ensure they are closed when not in
use, the ladder is in compliance based on OSHA Proposed Rule changes, but note in
comment section for replacement when funds become available)

1910.23(a)(2)
(OSHA Proposed
Rule 68:2352723568)

For ladders over 20 feet, landing platforms (are) provided.

1910.27(d)(2)

6c.

6d.

On ladders with landing platforms, sections are offset (Note: applies to multiple landings
1910.27(d)(2)
only).

Landings provided at each offset ladder.

1910.27(d)(2)

Landing platforms provided every 30 feet when cage is present.

1910.27(d)(2)

6e.

6f.

6g.

6h.

6i.

Landing platform (intermediate) step off distance 12 inches or less from the centerline of
1910.27(d)(2)(i)
the rung of a ladder to the nearest edge of structure or equipment (for through step off) and
and ANSI 14.3
no greater than 20 inches from center of the rung to landing platform (for side-step
Figure 6
ladders).
Landing platform step off distance is minimum 2 1/2 inches from the centerline of the rung
of a ladder to the nearest edge of structure or equipment.

1910.27(d)(2)(i)
and ANSI 14.3

Is the top of a step or rung of a ladder shall be level with the top of the access/egress level
1910.27(d)(2)(i)
or landing platform served by the ladder. (does not apply to roof hatches, elevator pits and
and ANSI 14.3
manholes).
Landing platforms are equipped with standard railings and toeboards.

1910.27(d)(2)(ii)

Platforms minimum 24 inches in width and 30 inches in length.

1910.27(d)(2)(ii)

At intermediate platforms, one rung of any section of ladder is located at the level of the
landing laterally served by the ladder. Where access to the landing is through the ladder,
the same rung spacing as used on the ladder must be used from the landing platform to
the first rung below the landing.

1910.27(d)(2)(ii)

6j.

6k.

6l.

The side rails of through or side-step ladder extensions (are provided on ladders and)
extend 3 1/2 feet (42 inches) above parapets and landings. (Note: does not apply to
6m.1 manholes, roof hatches; See below for elevator pits).

6m.2

For Elevator Pits: The ladder rails or hand grips extends a minimum of 48 inches above
the landing sill. See ANSI 17.2 Figure 2.2.4.2A

OSHAFixedLadderChecklistRev6a09/25/12

1910.27(d)(3)

ANSI 17.1-10,
Figure 2.2.4.2A

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Rev.6a

OSHAFixedLadderEvaluations

6n.

6o.
6p.
6q.

6r.

6s.

6t.

Width of through ladder extensions (does not apply to roof hatches, elevator pits and
manholes):
Between 24 and 30 inches wide (ANSI 14.3 and OSHA proposed rule) Acceptable
1910.27(d)(3)
(GREEN).
and ANSI 14.3
Between 18 and 24 inches (current OSHA 1910.27(d)(3) requirement) YELLOW due to
recognized safety hazard as indicated by OSHA proposed rule and current ANSI Standard.
Less than 18 inches or greater than 30 inches, RED -OUT OF SERVICE.
For side-step or offset fixed ladder sections, at landings, the side rails and rungs are
carried to the next regular rung beyond or above the 3 1/2 feet minimum (42 inches)
(Figure D-10).

1910.27(d)(3)

When provided in place of ladder side rails, grab bars are spaced as a continuation of the
rung spacing when they are located in the horizontal position.

1910.27(d)(4)

When provided in place of ladder side rails, vertical grab bars have the same spacing as
the ladder side rails.

1910.27(d)(4)

Record width between extensions:

When provided in place of ladder side rails, grab-bar diameters are the same as the round1910.27(d)(4)
rung diameters.
The preferred pitch of fixed ladders is considered to be in the range of 75 degrees and 90
degrees with the horizontal (fig. D-11).

1910.27(e)(1)

Is pitch greater than 90 degrees? Ladders having a pitch in excess of 90 degrees with the
horizontal are prohibited.

1910.27(e)(4)

Record pitch of ladder:

Return completed forms to Ed Murphy, with

photographs and locations denoted on key plans.

Summary list of needed actions:

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