A N S I ALLi-3 8 4 M 2 5 7 5 5 3 2 OOOB35h h ANSI A14.

3-I984

for ladders -
fixed -
safety requirements

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 A N S I A14.3 84 m 2 5 7 5 5 1 2 0008157 8 m

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 -
ANSI A34.3 84 2575512 0008358 T =
ANSI@
A 14.3- 1984
Revision of
ANSI A14.3-1974

American National Standard

for Ladders -
Fixed -
Safety Requirements

Secretariat

American Ladder Institute

Approved January 13, 1984

American National Standards Institute, I ne

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 A N S I A I l l . 3 8 l l W 2 5 7 5 5 1 2 0008159 I W

Foreword (This Foreword is not part of American National Standard ANSI A14.3-1984.)
This standard is a revision of American National Standard Safety Requirements for Fixed
Ladders, ANSI A14.3-1974. It is one of a series of five standards prepared under the super-
vision of American National Standards Committee on Safety in the Construction, Care, and
Use of Ladders, A14. All five standards have been developed by subcommittees reporting to
American National Standards Committee A14. The subcommittees are: A14-1, Portable
Wood Ladders; A14-2, Metal Ladders; A14-3, Fixed Ladders; A14-4, Job-Made Ladders;
and A14-5, Portable Reinforced Plastic Ladders.
Ail five standards derive from the original American National Standard Safety Code for
Construction, Care, and Use of Ladders, A14, which was first approved in 1923. Revi-
sions were approved in 1935, 1948, and 1952. Prior to the 1948 revision, the Code con-
tained some treatment of metal and fured ladders. Requirements for these types of lad-
ders were removed from the 1948 revision, which became American National Standard
Code for Wood Ladders, ANSI A14.1-1948, because, in the opinion of the committee, the
rapid development in the metal ladder field warranted special consideration and treatment
of metal ladders and fured ladders (usually metal) in separate standards.
Subcommittee A14-3 was created for the purpose of reviewing the data on fixed ladders
originally contained in the Code prior to the 1948 revision, and making any changes or
additions necessary to conform to the requirements of all interested groups. The A14.3
standard was submitted to the A14 Committee for letter ballot in December 1955 and
was approved in 1956. A revision was published in 1974.
The present revision was begun in 1979 and was approved in 1981. However, an appeal
led to reconsideration by the A14 Committee, and the current version was finally ap-
proved in 1984. Significant changes are in the statement of exceptions to the application
of this standard and in the lengths of climbs as covered by this standard.
Suggestions for improvement of this standard will be welcome. They should be sent to
the American Ladder Institute, 111 East Wacker Drive, Chicago, IL 60601,
This standard was processed and approved for submittal to ANSI by American National
Standards Committee on Safety in the Construction, Care, and Use of Ladders, A14.
Committee approval of the standard does not necessarily imply that all committee mem-
bers voted for its approval. At the time it approved this standard, the A14 Committee
had the foliowing members:

Lewis W. Berger, Chairman

Norman R. Pugh, Secretary

Organization Represented Name of Representative

Aiance of American insurers. ........................... .Thomas F. Bresnahan
The Aluminum Association ............................. .Edward E. Cooke
W.W. Pritsky (Ait)
Robert I. Werner (Ait)
American Institute of Architects .......................... .Robert H. Lee
American Insurance Association .......................... .David P. JVinger
Thomas E. Murray (Ait)
American iron & Steel Institute. .......................... .Edward E. Wilkinson
American Ladder Institute. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Henry W. Buschman, JI
James B. Dorenbusch (Alt)
Associated General Contractors of America, Inc . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Robert Sample
Arthur L. Schmuhi (Ait)
Association of American Railroads . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Paul V. Duffy
Canadian Standards Association. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Robert Reid
Edison Electric Institute............................... .David C. Norman
J. P. Markey (Ait)
Electronic Industries Association .......................... .Gary Redman

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 Contents PAGE

1. General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
1.1 Scope . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
1.2 Purpose . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
1.3 Application . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
1.4 Pitch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
1.5 Exceptions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
1.6 Existing Installations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
1.7 Interpretation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
1.8 Mandatory and Advisory Rules . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
1.9 Equivalent . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
1.10 Recognized Design Practice . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
2 . Related Standards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
2.1 Related American National Standards . . . . . . . . . . .1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
2.2 Other Related Standards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
.
3 Definitions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7
4 . General Design Criteria . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
4.1 Maximum Ladder Lengths and Protection Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
4.2 Design Loads . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
4.3 Design Stresses and Fabrication . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
4.4 Design Supervision. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
5. Design Details for Fixed Ladders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
5.1 StepsandRungs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
5.2 Side Rails . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
5.3 Terminations at the Top of a Ladder . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
5.4 Clearances . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11
5.5 Grounding . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
5.6 Moisture Resistance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
6. Design Details for Cages. Wells. and Platforms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
6.1 Cages. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
6.2 Wells . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
6.3 Platforms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . -12
7 . Ladder Safety Devices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
7.1 General Design . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
7.2 Safety Factors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
7.3 Ladder Safety Devices Consisting of a Carrier. Safety Sleeve. and
Safety Belt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
7.4 Ladder Safety Devices of Other Designs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
8. Protective Finishes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
8.1 Metal Ladders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
8.2 WoodLadders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
8.3 Combined Materials . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
9 . Maintenance and Use of Ladders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
9.1 General . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
9.2 Use . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
9.3 Maintenance. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
10. Revision of American National Standards Referred to in This Document . . . . . . . 15

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 A NSI A I L I - 3 8 4 H 2595512 0 0 0 8 1 b l T

Organization Represented Name of Representative

Exchange Carriers Standards Association ..................... .Jonathan L. Shaw
Peter J. Speronza (Alt)
Industrial Safety Equipment Association ..................... .J. Nigel Ellis
Ailen Neustater (Ait)
Frank E. Wilcher, Jr (Ait)
.................
International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers .Robert L. Bieritz
............
International Brotherhood of Painters and Allied Trades George J. Jones
International Magnesium Association........................ Clayton E. Larson
............
International Union of Bricklayers and Allied Craftsmen .Merlin L. Taylor
Metal Ladder Manufacturers Association, ..................... .Richard L. Werner
Jerrold F.Hilton (Ait)
Motor Vehicle Manufacturers Association ..................... .Kenneth E. Lauck
Joseph A. Calcaterra (Alt)
Richard J. Carpenter (Ait)
National Association of Architectural Metal Manufacturers. .......... .Philip B. Neilson
Robert J. Lyons (Alt)
National Association of Government Labor Officials. .............. .Howard Williams
National Fire Protection Association. ....................... .Samuel C. Cramer
Ronald Bennett (Ait)
National Retail Merchants Association. ...................... .Harold W. Stillman, JI
National Safety Council . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Bernie Enfield
Steel Plate Fabricators Association, Inc ...................... .Earl A. Bratton
Thurmond Yost (Ait)
Underwriters Laboratories. ............................. .Edward Killoren
Wiiliam R. Hooper (Ait)
U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission* . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Roy Deppa
US.Department of the Army, Corps of Engineers* ............... .Ronald J. Larch
U.S. Department of Labor, OSHA*. ........................ .Roy Gurnham
Individual Member
John E. Johnson

Subcommittee Al 4-3 on Fixed Ladders, which developed this standard, had the follow-
ing members:

Bernie Enfield, Chairman Ronald Bennett

Thomas F. Bresnahan
D. Engh
R. A. Kleine
Hugh McRae
Harold Wincheii
Thurmond Yost

*Nonvoting advisory member.

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 SECTION PAGE
Figures
Fig . 1 Pitch of Fixed Ladders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . -15
.
Fig 2 Length of Climb 24 ft or Less - Cage. Well. or Ladder Safety
Device Not Required . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Fig. 3 Length of Climb 24 ft or Less with Elevated Access - Cage or
Ladder Safety Device Required . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
.
Fig 4 Single Length of Climb Greater Than 24 ft but Not Exceeding
50 ft - Cage. Well, or Ladder Safety Device Required . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17
Fig . 5 Total Lengths of Climb Greater Than 50 ft - Platforms and Cages.
Wells, or Ladder Safety Devices Required ....................... 18
.
Fig 6 Support and Ladder Dimensions and Side Clearances . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
Fig .7 Individual Rung Ladders - Suggested Design of Rungs . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20
.
Fig 8 Termination a t Floor or Platform ............................ 20
.
Fig 9 Terminations at Roof .................................... 21
.
Fig 10 Grab Bars ............................................ 21
Fig. 11 General Arrangements for Ladders in Wells ...................... 22
Fig . 12 Deflector Plate for Hatch Opening with Reduced Clearance . . . . . . . . . . . 24
.
Fig 13 Counterbalanced Hatch Cover at Roof ......................... 24
.
Fig 14 Minimum Ladder Clearances................................ 25
.
Fig 15 Through Ladder Clearances - Ladder Placed Far from Wall . . . . . . . . . . .26
Fig . 16 Example of the General Construction of Cages.................... 27
.
Fig 17 Example of a Cage Plan ................................... 28

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.
 American National Standard
for Ladders -
Fixed -
Safety Requirements
1. General
1.1 Scope. This standard prescribes minimum require-
ments for the design, construction, and use of fixed
ladders, and sets forth requirements for cages, wells,
and ladder safety devices used with fixed ladders, in
order to minimize personal injuries. Au parts and ap-
purtenances necessary for a safe and efficient ladder
shall be considered integral parts of the design.
1.2 Purpose. The purpose of this standard is to provide
safety for life, limb, and property by establishing mini-
mum standards for the design and installation of fixed
ladders.
1.3 Application. The methods employed to ensure
compliance with this standard shall be determined by
the proper regulatory or administrative authority.
1.4 Pitch. This standard covers fixed ladders within
the pitch range of 60 to 90 degrees from the horizontal.
1.4.1 Preferred Pitch. The preferred pitch of fixed
ladders shail be considered to be within the range of
75 to 90 degrees from the horizontal (see Fig. 1).
1.4.2 Substandard Pitch. Fixed ladders shall be con-
sidered substandard if they are installed within the sub-
standard pitch range of 60 to 75 degrees from the hori-
zontal. Substandard fixed ladders shall be permitted
only where it is found necessary to meet installation
conditions (see Fig. 1). This substandard pitch range
shall be considered a critical range, to be avoided if
possible.
1.4.3 Pitch Greater Than 90 Degrees. Ladders hav-
ing a pitch in excess of 90 degrees from the horizontal
shall not be permitted.
1.5 Exceptions
1.5.1 This standard is intended for application to
the types of structures depicted and described in the
standard (i.e., buildings, wells, and shafts). It sets forth
the criteria (what is needed) necessary to build a fixed
ladder in a certain way and manner (how to build).
The standard does not contemplate special or unique
(as to where and when) applications of the require-
ments, although individual requirements, or a combina-
tion of requirements, may apply universally.
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1 S . 2 This standard establishes requirements for
fixed ladders in order to promote a greater degree of
standardization. In cases where difficulty is encountered
in complying with the standard, or where there are
special service conditions, it is expected that the ad-
ministrative authority will grant exceptions from the
literal requirements of the standard, or will permit the
use of alternative designs or features, if equivalent
safety is thereby secured (see 1.9).
1.6 Existing Installations
1.6.1 The requirements of this standard shall not
apply to existing installations, provided they meet
one of the following conditions:
(i) The installation was made in compliance with
a state, federal, or consensus standard that was in
existence and applicable at the time of instaliation,
and documentation is available to substantiate this.
(2) The installation differs from the design mea-
surements of this standard by a degree, determined
by an individual competent in structural design, such
that its performance will not substantially deviate
from the requirements of this standard.
1.6.2 If the existing installation is subsequently
modified or replaced, or if repairs on more than 25 per-
cent of the total unit are required, the installation
shall be made to conform to the requirements of this
standard.
1.7 Interpretation
1.7.1 This standard is designed to serve as a guide
for regulatory bodies or administrative agencies in the
formulation of laws and regulations. It is also intended
for voluntary use by establishments that use or de-
sign fixed ladders, or manufacture them for installa-
tion.
1.7.2 To secure uniform application of this stan-
dard, it is recommended that suggestions involving
changes in the requirements or disputes over their
interpretation be referred to the organization holding
the secretariat of this standard:
American Ladder Institute, 111 East Wacker Drive,
Chicago, IL 60601.

1.8 Mandatory and Advisory Rules. Mandatory re-
quirements of this standard are indicated by the word
shall. If a requirement is of an advisory nature, it
is indicated by the word should or is stated as a
recommendation.
1.9 Equivalent. The word equivalent in this stam
dard shall be interpreted to mean an alternative de-
sign, feature, construction, connection, or material
providing equal performance.
1.10 Recognized Design Practice. The term recog-
nized design practice in this standard shall be inter-
preted to mean the use and application of those
specifications contained in the standards cited in
Section 2 and 4.3.
2. Related Standards
2.1 Related American National Standards. This stan-
dard is intended for use with the following American .
National Standards (see Section 10).
American National Standard Requirements for Safety
Belts, Harnesses, Lanyards, Lifelines, and Drop Limes
for Construction and Industrial Use, ANSI A10.14-
1975
American National Standard Safety Requirements for
Floor and Wall Openings, Railings, and Toeboards,
ANSI A12.1-1973
American National Standard Safety Code for Ladders
- Portable Wood - Safety Requirements, ANSI
Al 4.1-1982
American National Standard Safety Code for Eleva-
tors and Escalators, ANSI/ASME A17.1-1981
American National Standard Lightning Protection
Code, ANSI/NFPA 78-1983
2.2 Other Related Standards
. Specification for the Design, Fabrication and Erection
of Structural Steel for Buildings, AISC S31O-198O1
Specification for Structural Steel, ASTM A36-8 la2
Construction Manual Series, Section 1, Specifications
for Aluminum Structures, AA SAS-30-19823
Available from American Institute of Steel Construction,
P.O. Box 4588, Chicago, IL 60680.
*Available from ASTM, 1916 Race Street, Philadelphia, PA
9103.
3Availablefrom The Aluminum Association, 818 Connecti-
cut Avenue, NW, Washington, DC 20006.
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AMERICAN NATIONAL STANDARD A14.3-1984
National Design Specification for Wood Construc-
tion, 19824
3. Definitions
cage. A barrier, which may be referred to as a cage
guard OK basket guard, that is an enclosure mounted
on the side rails of the fixed ladder or fastened to the
structure to enclose the climbing space of the ladder
in order to safeguard the employee climbing the
ladder.
carrier. The track of a ladder safety device consisting
of a flexible cable or rigid rail, which is secured to the
ladder or structure by mountings.
fastening. Attaching a ladder to a structure, building,
or equipment.
ladder. A device incorporating or employing steps,
rungs, or cleats on which a person may step to ascend
or descend.
ladder safety device. A vertical support system, other
than a cage or well, used in conjunction with a ladder,
which will limit a persons fall from the ladder without
that person having to continually manipulate the de-
vice or any part thereof.
landing. Any area such as the ground, roof, or plat-
form that provides access/egress for a fixed ladder.
length of climb. The total vertical distance a person
could climb in traveling between the extreme points
of access/egress for a fxed ladder, whether the lad-
er is of an unbroken length or consists of multiple
sections. This total vertical distance is determined by
including all spaces between all ladder steps or rungs
and all other vertical intervening spaces between the
extreme points of access/egress.
mounting. A means for attaching a cage or a ladder
safety device to a ladder.
pitch. The included (acute) angle between the hori-
zontal and the ladder, which is measured on the op-
posite side of the ladder from the climbing side. The
pitch is usually expressed as H/L, which is the hori-
zontal distance, H , from the base of the ladder to
the supporting surface divided by the working length,
L , of the ladder.
platform. A landing surface that is used as a working
or standing location.
Available from National Forest Products Association,
1619 Massachusetts Avenue, NW,Washington, DC 20036.
 A N S I A L 4 9 3 Bi-I 2 5 7 5 5 3 2 000Blb5 7
AMERICAN NATIONAL STANDARD A14.3-1984
rail. The side members jointed at intervals by either
rungs or steps.
rail ladder. A fixed ladder consisting of side rails joined
at regular intervals by rungs and fastened full length
or in sections to a building, structure, or equipment.
safety belt. A high-strength belt or harness attached
to a fall-limiting device that is worn by individuals
working at elevated locations and specifically designed
to secure, suspend, or retrieve the user.
safety sleeve. That part of a ladder safety device con-
sisting of the moving component with locking mechan-
ism that travels on the carrier and makes the connec-
tion between the carrier and the safety belt.
side-step ladder. A rail ladder that requires a person
getting off at the top to step sideways from the ladder
in order to reach a landing.
step surfaces. The clear portions of steps or rungs
on which a person may step while ascending or descend-
ing a ladder.
through ladder. A rail ladder that requires a person
getting off at the top to step through the ladder
in order to reach a landing.
toeboard. A barrier erected along the exposed edges of
a platform or landing surface to prevent falls of ma-
terials or tools that would create hazards to persons
below.
well (shaft). A walled enclosure around a fixed ladder
that provides the person climbing the ladder with the
same protection as a cage.
4. General Design Criteria
4.1 Maximum Ladder Lengths and Protection
Requirements
4.1.1 A cage, well, or ladder safety device shall not
be required where the length of climb is 24 feet or less
above or below ground level, or above or below a floor
or roof with accesslegress from ground level, floor, or
roof (see Fig. 2).
4.1 .i A cage or ladder safety device shall be pro-
vided where the length of climb is less than 24 feet
but the top of the ladder is at a distance greater than
24 feet above ground level, floor, or roof (see Fig. 3).
4.1.3 A cage, well, or ladder safety device shall be
provided where a single length of climb is greater
than 24 feet but does not exceed 50 feet (see Fig. 4).
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4.1.4 Ladders having a length of climb greater than
50 feet (see Fig. 5a) shall be provided with a cage, well,.
or ladder safety device and shall meet the requirements
in 4.1.4.1 or 4.1.4.2, whichever is applicable.
4.1.4.1 Where cages or wells are used:
(1) The ladder shall consist of multiple sections.
(2) Each section shall be horizontally offset from
adjacent sections.
(3) A landing platform shall be provided at least
every 50 feet within the length of climb.
4.1.4.2 Where ladder safety devices are used, the
length of climb may be continuous, but rest platforms
shall be provided at maximum intervals of 150 feet
(see Fig. 5b).
4.1.5 All parts and surfaces of fixed ladder installa-
tions shall be free of sharp edges, burrs, or other de-
tails that may be hazardous to the person using the
ladder.
4.2 Design Loads. All ladders, platforms, appurtenances,
and fastenings shall be designed to meet the load re-
quirements described in 4.2.1 through 4.2.3,
4.2.1 Live Loads for Ladders
4.2.1.1 Live Loads Imposed by Persons, Live
loads imposed by persons shall be as follows:
(1) The minimum design live load shall be two
loads of 250 pounds each concentrated between any
two consecutive attachments. Each step or rung in the
ladder shall be designed for a single concentrated live
load of 250 pounds minimum.
(2) The number and position of additional concen-
trated live load units of 250 pounds each, determined
from anticipated usage of the ladder, shall be consid-
ered in the design.
4.2.1.2 Other Live Loads. The following live
loads shall be considered in the design, where appli-
cable :
(1) A uniform coating of ice on all parts of the
ladder
.
(2) A wind load on all parts of the ladder
(3) The weight of rigging attached to the ladder,
including the load to be lifted
. (4) Anticipated impact loads resulting from the
use of ladder safety devices
4.2.1.3 Live Load Concentration. All live loads
shall be considered to be concentrated at such a point
or points as will cause the maximum stress in the struc-
tural member in question.
4.2.2 Live Loads for Platforms. All platforms shall
be designed for a uniform minimum live load of 100
pounds per square foot over the entire platform area;
for the live loads resulting from ladders secured direct-
ly to the platforms; and for other live loads as indi-
cated in 4.2.1.2.
 A N S I AL4-3 BY
4.2.3 Dead Loads
4.2.3.1 Ladders. The weight of the ladder and
attached appurtenances shall be considered simultane-
ously with the live loads in the design of rails, supports,
and fastenings.
4.2.3.2 Platforms. The weight of the platform
and attached appurtenances, including the dead load
of any portion of the ladder supported by the plat-
form, shall be considered simultaneously with the live
loads in the design of platform framing supports and
fastenings.
4.3 Design Stresses and Fabrication
4.3.1 Steel
4.3.1.1 Ladders and Platforms. Steel ladders
and platforms shall be designed and fabricated in ac-
cordance with the applicable requirements of AISC
S310-1980. Portable steel ladders may be adapted
for use as fured ladders provided they mee all the
requirements of ANSI A14.3-1984.
4.3.1.2 Materials. Materials conforming to
ASTM A36-81a or the equivalent shall be used. Higher
strength steels may be used, subject to the require-
ments of AISC S310-1980:
4.3.1.3 Welding. Welding for steel ladders shall
conform to all applicable requirements of AISC S310-
1980.
4.3.2 Aluminum
4.3.2.1 Ladders and Platforms. Aluminum lad-
ers and platforms shall be designed and fabricated in
accordance with the applicable requirements of AA
SAS-30-1982.Portable aluminum ladders may be
adapted for use as fixed ladders provided they meet
all the requirements of ANSI A14.3-1984.
4.3.2.2 Materials. Alloys 6061 or 6063 of appro-
priate temper (as defined by AA SAS-30-1982) shall
be used. Other aluminum alloys may be used subject
to the requirements of AA SAS-30-1982.
4.3.2.3 Welding. Welding for aluminum ladders
shall conform to all applicable requirements of AA
SAS-30-1982.
4.3.3 Wood
4.3.3.1 Wood ladders shall be designed and
fabricated in accordance with applicable requirements
of ANSI A14.1-1982, with the following additional
restrictions :
(i) Only single ladders as prescribed in ANSI A14.1-
1982 shall be used as fixed wood ladders.
(2) The design loads shall be as specified in 4.2
of ANSI A14.3-1984.
(3) The minimum clear width between side rails at
any point shall not be less than 16 inches, and side
rails shall be parallel at all points.
(4) Fastenings meeting the design load requirements
COPYRIGHT American National Standards Institute
Licensed by Information Handling Services
25755112 000BLbb 7 U
AMERICAN NATIONAL STANDARD A14.3-1984
shaU be used for the permanent attachment of wood
ladders to structures, buildings, or equipment.
4.3.3.2 Wood platforms shall be designed in ac-
cordance with the allowable stresses and fabrication
practices of National Design Specification for Wood
Construction, 1982.
4.3.4 Other Materials. Materials other than steel,
aluminum, and wood may be used provided the design,
fabrication, and erection are in accordance with recog-
nized design practice.
4.4 Design Supervision. The design of fured ladder
systems shall be under the general supervision of a
qualified registered (licensed) structural or professional
engineer or architect.
5 . Design Details for Fixed Ladders
5.1 Steps and Rungs
5.1.1 Vertical Spacing. The vertical spacing of steps
and rungs shall not exceed 12 inches on centers, and
this spacing shall be uniform in the same length of
climb (see Fig. 6)
5.1.2 Width. The minimum inside clear width of
step surface for steps and rungs shall be 16 inches, and
this width shall be uniform in the same length of climb
(see Fig. 6).
5.1.3 Minimum Size of Steps and Rungs
5.1.3.1 General. The following are general re-
quirements for the minimum size of steps and rungs:
(i) The minimum size (cross section) requirements
of steps and rungs specified 5.1.3 are based on sec-
tion properties adequate to support the design loads
specified in 4.2 and on the minimum clear width speci-
fied in 5.1.2.
(2) For additional load concentrations or attach-
ment of ladder safety devices, and for clear widths ex-
ceeding 16 inches, the minimum size (cross section) of
steps and rungs shali be increased in accordance with
recognized design practice.
(3) In no case shall the minimum size (cross section)
of steps and rungs be less than 314 inch, as specified
in 5.1.3.2(1), regardless of the material used.
(4) The size (cross section) of steps and rungs shall
be uniform in the same length of climb.
5.1.3.2 Steel Ladders. The minimum sizes (cross
sections) of steps and rungs fabricated of steel con-
forming to ASTM A36-81a shall be as follows:
(1) For ladders subject to normal atmospheric ex-
posures, 3/4-inch-diameter solid bar, or the.equivalent
in strength for square, rectangular, or other solid or
hollow shapes, is required.
 = 2575512
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ANSI A1493 8 4
AMERICAN NATIONAL STANDARD A14.3-1984
( 2 ) For ladders subject to unusually corrosive atmo-
spheric exposures, 1-inch-diameter solid bar, or the
equivalent in strength for square, rectangular, or other
solid or hollow shapes, is required.
5.1.3.3 Aluminum Ladders. The minimum size
of aluminum structural components shall be determined
in accordance with the provisions of AA SAS-30-1982.
In cases where the ladders are subjected to corrosive
atmospheric exposure or placed in contact with dis-
similar materials, the aluminum shall be treated in ac-
cordance with the requirements of AA SAS-30-1982.
5.1.3.4 Ladders of Other Metals. The minimum
size (cross section) as specified in 5.1.3.2 may be modi-
fied (subject to the requirement of 5.1.3.1(3)) by a
factor that shall be the ratio of the allowable unit
stress for steel conforming to ASTM A36-8 1a to the
allowable unit stress for the type and shape of the
other metal(s) used.
5.1.3.5 Wood Ladders. The minimum size of
wooden steps and rungs shall be as specified in ANSI
A14.1-1982.
5.1.4 Rung Ends
5.1.4.1 Step- and Rung-vpe Ladders. Step-
and rung-type ladders of steel, aluminum, and other
metals shall have each step or rung end securely
fastened to the side rails so as to fully develop the
strength of the step or rung, and so as to securely
lock each step or rung to the side rails.
5.1.4.2 Individual Rung Ladders
5.1.4.2.1 Rungs Attached to Metals. The
ends of each rung shall have the proper configuration
and sufficient means of attachment to the supporting
structure to fully develop the design loads imposed on
the rung.
5.1.4.2.2 Rungs Embedded in Concrete or
Masonry. The ends of each rung shall have proper con-
figuration and sufficient embedment in the supporting
wall to fully develop the design loads imposed on the
rung (see Fig. 7).
5.1.4.3 Wood Ladders. Rung ends shall be in
accordance with the requirements of ANSI A14.1-.
1982.
5.2 Side Rails
5.2.1 Shape
5.2.1.1 Any shape may be used that provides
a uniform gripping surface for the hands of persons
using the ladders, as long as that shape provides a
power grip.
5.2.1.2 The same shape of side rails shall be
maintained for all ladders in the same length of climb.
5.2.1.3 Side rail shapes that fail to provide a
power grip shall not be used.
10
COPYRIGHT American National Standards Institute
Licensed by Information Handling Services
0008Lb7 O W
5.2.2 Minimum Size
5.2.2.1 General. The following are general re-
quirements for the minimum size of side rails:
(1) The minimum size (cross section) of side rails
recommended in 5.2.2 is based on section properties
adequate to support the design loads specified in 4.2
and on the maximum spacing of supports specified
in 5.2.4. Variations in size (cross section) shall be per-
mitted provided the section properties are adequate
to support the design loads and are consistent with
the maximum spacing of supports.
(2) For additional load concentrations or attach-
ment of ladder safety devices, and for spacing of sup-
ports that exceeds the maximum spacing recom-
mended, the minimum size of side rails shall be in-
creased in accordance with recognized design practice.
(3) The same size (cross section) of side rails shall
be maintained for ail ladders in the same length of
climb.
5.2.2.2 Steel Ladders. The recommended mini-
mum sizes (cross section) of side rails fabricated of
steel conforming to ASTM A36-81a are as follows:
(1) For ladders subject to normal atmospheric ex-
posures, flat solid bar stock, 2-1/2 inches wide by
318-inch thick, or the equivalent in strength in solid
or hollow shapes, is required.
(2) For ladders subject to unusually corrosive at-
mospheric exposures, flat solid bar stock 2-1/2 inches
wide by 1/2-inch thick, or the equivalent in strength
in solid or hollow shapes, is required.
5.2.2.3 Aluminum Ladders. The minimum size
of aluminum structural components shall be deter-
mined in accordance with the provisions of AA SAS-
30-1982. In cases where the ladders are subjected to
corrosive atmospheric exposure or placed in contact
with dissimilar materials, the aluminum shall be treated
in accordance with requirements of AA SAS-30-1982.
5.2.2.4 Wood Ladders. The minimum size of
side rails for wood ladders shall be as required in ANSI
A14.1-1982.
5.2.2.5 Ladders of Other Materiais. The mini-
mum size recommended for steel may be modified by
a factor that shall be the ratio of the allowable unit
stress for steel conforming to ASTM A36-81a to the
allowable unit stress for the type and shape of other
metal(s) used.
5.2.3 Splices
5.2.3.1 AU splices shall be designed so as to en-
sure full structural continuity of the side rails. Splices
shall be made at intermediate supports only if the type
of material used requires that location.
5.2.3.2 Au splices shall provide smooth transi-
tions with the main side rails so as to afford minimum
interference with the gripping surface for the hands
 A N S I A 1 4 - 3 44
of each person using the ladder. Sharp or extensive
projections shall not be permitted.
5.2.3.3 Provisions for expansion due to thermal
changes shall be made at splices if these provisions are
required to prevent buckling or buildup of stresses in
the side rails.
5.2.4 Maximum Spacing of Supports
5.2.4.1 Steel Ladders. The maximum spacing of
supports for fastening the side rails to the structure,
building, or equipment shall be 10 feet O inches for the
size of side rails recommended in 5.2.2, and for the
clear widthof steps or rungs specified in 5.1.2. For
additional design loads or attachment of ladder safety
devices, or for variations in size (cross section) of side
rails, the maximum spacing of supports shall be ad-
justed in accordance with recognized design practice
(see, e.g., Fig. 6 and 15).
5.2.4.2 Ladders Constructed of Aluminum,
Wood, and Other Materials. The maximum spacing of
supports for fastening the side rails to the structure,
building, or equipment shall be as required to ade-
quately support the loads, subject to the same require-
ments specified for steel in 5.2.4.1.
5.3 Terminations at the Top of a Ladder
5.3.1 Top Step or Rung. The top of a step or rung
of a ladder shall be level with the top of the access/
egress level or landing platform served by the ladder
(see Fig. 8 , 9 , and lo), except as required by 5.3.4.2
or as permitted in 6.2.1-2.
5.3.2 Extensions for Side-Rail Ladders
5.3.2.1 The side rails of throughor side-step
ladders shail extend 3 feet 6 inches above the top of
the access/egress Ievel or landing platform served by
the ladder (see Fig. 8 , 9 , and 10). For a parapet ladder,
the accesslegress level shall be the roof if the parapet
is cut to permit passage through the parapet; if the
parapet is continuous, the access/egress level shall be
the top of the parapet (see Fig. 9).
5.3.2.2 For through ladder extensions, the steps
or rungs shall be omitted from the extension and tlfe
extension of the side rails shall be flared to provide not
less than 24 inches, or more than 30 inches, clearance
between side rails. Where ladder safety devices are pro-
vided, the maximum clearance between side rails of the
extensions shall not exceed 36 inches (see Fig. 8).
5.3.2.3 For side-step ladders, the side rails and
the steps or rungs shall be continuous in the extension
(see Fig. 6).
5.3.3 Extensions for Individual Rung Ladders
5.3.3.1 Individual rung ladders, except those in-
tended for manholes (see Fig. 11) and terminations
with hatches (see 5.3,4), shall be extended above an
accesslegresslevel or landing platform either by the
COPYRIGHT American National Standards Institute
Licensed by Information Handling Services
m 2595512 00081b4 2 =
AMERICAN NATIONAL STANDARD A14.3-1984
continuation of the rung spacings as horizontal grab
bars or by providing vertical grab bars that shall have
the same lateral spacing as the vertical legs of the rungs
(see Fig. 10).
5.3.3.2 Grab bars shall extend at least 3 feet
6 inches above the accesslegresslevel or landing plat-
form served by the ladder.
5.3.3.3 The minimum size (cross section) of the
grab bars shall be the same as for ladder rungs (see 5.1.3).
5.3.4 Terminations with Hatches
5.3.4.1 Hatches shall meet the minimum in-
side clearances specified for wells in 6.2.2. In the
case of unusual hatch condiions, the clearance on
the climbing side may be reduced to 24 inches from
the centerline of the steps or rungs if the underside
of the hatch opening is fitted with a deflector plate
(see Fig. 12).
5.3.4.2 Counterbalanced hatch covers shall
open at least 70 degrees from the horizontal. The
springs or other counterbalance mechanisms for the
hatch may project into the hatch opening provided
they do not reduce the clear width of access/egress
to less than 24 inches. The top rung of the ladder may
also be located below the top of the hatch to provide
required clearance for the hatch cover (see Fig. 13).
5.4 Clearances
5.4.1 Climbing Side of Ladders
5.4.1.1 Ladders without cages or wells shail have
a minimum perpendicular distance of 30 inches from
the centerline of the steps and rungs to the nearest
permanent object on the climbing side (see Fig. 14).
5.4.1.2 Ladders with cages or wells shall have
clearances as specified in Section 6.
5.4.1.3 When unavoidable obstructions are en-
countered, the minimum clearance may be reduced to
24 inches if deflector plates are provided (see Fig. 14).
5.4.2 Back Side of Ladders
5.4.2.1 The perpendicular distance from the cen-
terline of the steps and rungs, or grab bars, or both, to
the nearest permanent object in back of the ladder
shall be not less than 7 inches (see Fig. 8 and lo), ex-
cept in elevator pits complying with clearance require-
ments as specified in ANSIIASME A17.1-1981.
5.4.2.2 For a through ladder, the step-across
distance from the centerline of the steps or rungs to
the nearest edge of the structure, building, or equip-
ment shall not be less than 7 inches or more than 12
inches. If the normal step-across distance exceeds 12
inches, a landing platform shall be provided toxeduce
the distance to between 7 and 12 inches (see Fig, 15).
5.4.3 Width or Side Clearances
5,4.3.1 Ladders without cages or wells shall have
a minimum clear width to the nearest permanent ob-
11
 ANSI A14.3 8 2595512 0 0 0 B l b 4
AMERICAN NATIONAL STANDARD A14.3-1984
ject of at least 15 inches on each side of the centerline
of the ladder (see Fig. 6).
5.4.3.2 Side-step ladders at the point of access/
egress to a platform shall have a step-across distance of
15 inches minimum and 20 inches maximum from the
centerline of the ladder (see Fig. 6).
5.4.3.3 Ladders with a cage or well shall have
clearances as specified in Section 6.
5.5 Grounding. Lightning protection, bonding, and
grounding of metal ladders and attachments shall be
in accordance with ANSI/NFPA 78-1983.
5.6 Moisture Resistance. All fixed ladders shall be de-
signed to minimize the accumulation of moisture so as
to help reduce corrosion on metal ladders or rot of
wood ladders.
6. Design Details for Cages, Wells, and Platforms
6.1 Cages
6.1.1 General Design
6.1.1.1 The general construction of cages shall
consist of horizontal bands or supports and vertical
bars. An example of cage construction is shown in
Fig. 16 and 17, but equivalent construction may be
used.
6.1.1.2 Horizontal bands shall be fastened to the
side rails of rail ladders, or directly to the structure,
building, or equipment for individual rung ladders.
6.1.1.3 Vertical bars shall be on the inside of
the horizontal bands and shall be fastened to them.
6.1.1.4 Cages shall be designed to support the
live loads and dead loads specified for ladders in 4.2.1
and 4.2.3.
6.1.2 Cage Size
6.1.2.1 Cages shall extend not less than 27
inches, or more than 30 inches from the centerline of
the step or rung (excluding the flare at the bottom of .
the cage), and shall not be less than 27 inches in width.
The inside of the cage shall be clear of projections.
6.1.2.2 Horizontal bands shall be spaced not
more than 4 feet on center vertically for the size and
spacing of vertical bars recommended in the example
shown in Fig. 16 and 17. For variations in size (cross
section) and spacing of vertical bars, the maximum
spacing of horizontal bands shall be in accordance with
recognized design practice.
6.1.2.3 Vertical bars shall be spaced at intervals
not more than 40 degrees on center around the circum-
ference of the cage. This will give a maximum spacing,
center to center, of approximately 9-1/2 inches (see
Fig. 17).
12
COPYRIGHT American National Standards Institute
Licensed by Information Handling Services
=
6.1.2.4 The bottom of the cage shall be at a level
not less than 7 feet or more than 8 feet above the point
of access/egress to the bottom of the ladder. The bot-
tom of the cage shall be flared not less than 4 inches all
around within the distance between the bottom hori-
zontal band and the next higher band (see Fig. 16).
w e r e practical difficulties are encountered, cages
may start at 10 feet above the point of access/egress.
6.1.2.5 The top of the cage shall be a minimum
of 3 feet 6 inches above the top of the platform, or the
point of access/egress at the top of the ladder, with
provision for access/egress to the platform or point of
access/egress (see Fig. 16).
6.1 -2.6 Any portion of the cage above the plat-
form or above the point of access/egress that cannot be
fastened to the side rail shall be fastened to the guard-
rail, or directly to the structure, building, or equipment.
6.2 Wells
6.2.1 General Construction
6.2,l.l Wells shall consist of a wall or walls, or
equivalent construction, completely encircling the lad-
er. The inside of the well shall be clear of projections
(see Fig. 11).
6.2.1.2 The top rung or step of the ladder shall
meet the requirements specified in 5.3.1, except that
individual rung ladders may have the top step or rung
located not more than 6 inches below the top of the
well or access/egress point.
6.2.1.3 The top of the well shall have railings
and toeboards in accordance with ANSI A12.1-1973,
and arranged as to provide safe access/egress for the
well.
6 . 2 2 Well Size
6.2.2.1 The inside face of the well on the climb-
ing side of the ladder shall extend not less than 27
inches or more than 30 inches from the centerline of
the step or rung. The inside clear width of the well
shall be a nominal 30 inches (see Fig. 11).
6.2.2.2 The bottom of the wall on the access
side shall start at a level not less than 7 feet or more
than 8 feet above the.point of access to the bottom
of the ladder (see Fig. 11).
6.3 Platforms
6.3.1 General Construction
6.3.1.1 Platforms shall consist of a horizontal
area on which a person may step while climbing a lad-
der, either for rest purposes or for access to another
section of the ladder.
6.3.1.2 All platforms shall be provided with
railings and toeboards, in accordance with ANSI A12.1-
1973.
6.3.2 Platform Size, The total depth of the plat-
form shall provide a minimum space of 30 inches from
 ANSI A 3 4 - 3 B 4
the centerline of the ladder on the climbing side. The
width of the platform shall be not less than 30 inches.
7. Ladder Safety Devices
7 , l General Design
7.1.1 AU components of ladder safety devices shall
meet the design requirements of Section 7.
7.1.2 The ladder safety device shall allow at least
two persons, but not more than four, averaging 250
pounds each (including equipment), to ascend or
descend simultaneously; however, ony one person at
. a time (except in rescue operations) shall use the same
portion of carrier between intermediate mountings for
rigid carriers or cable guides for flexible carriers.
7.1.3 The ladder safety device shall be designed to
absorb the impact load of a solid object weighing at
least 500 pounds in a free fall of 18 inches.
7.1.4 Design and installation of mountings shall not
reduce the design safety factors of the fixed ladders.
7.1.5 Brittle materials shall not be utilized in ladder
safety devices.
7.2 Safety Factors
7.2.1 Flexible components such as webbing and
fabric shall have a safety factor of not less than 5 for
the designed static load.
7.2.2 Flexible carriers shall have a safety factor
not less than 10 times the designed static load.
7.2.3 Ductile material shall have a safety factor of
not less than 5 times the designed static load.
7.3 Ladder Safety Devices Consisting of a Carrier,
Safety Sleeve, and Safety Belt
7.3.1 The safety sleeve shall be of a type which can
be operated entirely by the person using the ladder
safety device. It shall permit the person using the lad-
der safety device to ascend or descend without having
to continually manipulate the safety sleeve.
7.3.2 The maximum length of movement of the
safety sleeve, in an accidental fall, shall be not more
than 6 inches.
7.3.3 The maximum length of the connection be-
tween the centerline of the carrier and the point of
attachment to the safety belt shall not exceed 9 inches.
7.3.4 Mountings for rigid carriers shall be attached
at each end of the carrier with intermediate mountings
spaced along the entire length of the carrier in accor-
dance with the manufacturers recommendations.
Intermediate mountings shall be installed within 1 foot
below each splice on the carrier, and not less than one
every 25 feet.
7.3.5 Mountings for flexible carriers shall be at-
tached at each end of the carrier. Cable guides utilized
COPYRIGHT American National Standards Institute
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2575532 OOOB370 O W
.AMERICAN NATIONAL STANDARD A14.3-1984
with a flexible carrier shall be installed at a minimum
spacing of 25 feet and a maximum spacing of 40 feet
along the entire length of the carrier.
7.4 Ladder Safety Devices of Other Designs. Ladder
safety devices utilizing other designs shall meet the de-
sign requirements of this standard, including the re-
quirements of 7.1 and 7.2.
8. Protective Finishes
8.1 Metal Ladders
8.1.1 If carbon-steel rail ladders and carbon-steel
individual rung ladders attached to metal are exposed
to the elements, to minimize corrosion they shall re-
ceive a prime coat of paint and one (or more) field
finish coat(s) of paint; or shall be hot-dip galvanized;
or shall receive equivalent methods of metal protec-
tion. -
8.1.2 Carbon-steel individual rung ladders em-
bedded in masonry or concrete shall be hot-dip gal-
vanized as protection against corrosion at the critical
points where the rung metal enters the masonry or con-
crete. Equivalent protective methods may also be used.
8.1.3 For all carbon-steel ladders exposed to con-
tinuously moist conditions, hot-dip galvanizing is rec-
ommended as protection except where the moisture
condition is also corrosive to galvanizing, in which case
special coatings shall be provided or a noncorrosive
metal used.
8.1.4 The exposed portions of ladders of aluminum
or other noncorrosive metals do not require painting,
except that those portions of the ladders in contact
with dissimilar metals or embedded in masonry or con-
crete shaii be painted or otherwise protected in ac-
cordance with recognized maintenance practice.
8.2 Wood Ladders. Wood ladders shall normally be
treated with a nonirritating preservative suitable for
the service. Wood ladders may be painted, after the
preservative treatment, in accordance with the require-
ments of ANSI A14.1-1982.
8.3 Combined Materials. When different types of ma-
terials are used in the construction of fixed ladders, the
materials used shall be treated at their interfaces with
suitable protective materials, as necessary, to prevent
any deleterious effects of one material on the other.
9. Maintenance and Use of Ladders
9.1 General
9.1.1 The guidelines discussed in this section do not
13
 AMERICAN NATIONAL STANDARD A14.3-1984
constitute every proper or improper procedure for the
maintenance and use of ladders.
9.1.2 Proper use of the fixed ladder systems will
contribute significantly to safety. Haste, sudden move-
ments, lack of attention during use, ladder condition
(worn or damaged), and users age and physical condi-
tion contribute to falls. The footwear employed by the
user may also contribute to falls. The likelihood of
falls is not increased by the users excessive weight or
size. However, improper climbing posture creating user
clumsiness on the ladder may cause falls.
9.1.3 The safe useful life of the fixed ladder sys-
tems is dependent on its proper in-service maintenance.
While ladders are designed for extended service, it is
necessary to provide periodic in-service maintenance
to ensure their continued safe use. Ladders are not de-
signed or intended to possess an infinite safe useful life.
9.2 Use
9.2.1 When ascending or descending, the climber
shall face the ladder and shall maintain a firm hold on
the ladder with both hands.
9.2.2 Hand tools shall be carried in a pouch, holster,
or otherwise secured so as not to create a hazard while
climbing.
9.2.3 Heavy objects shall be hoisted aloft and so
lowered.
9.2.4 Users shall report any defects or deteriora-
tion promptly to their supervisors.
9.2.5 Ladders should be free of oil, grease, or
slippery materials on climbing or gripping surfaces.
Shoes and footwear should be kept clean.
9.3 Maintenance
9.3.1 Ail fixed ladder systems should be maintained
in a safe condition. Inspections for rust, corrosion, and
deterioration should be made at least annually, with
more frequent inspections to be made as determined
by use and exposure.
9.3.2 All bolts and welds shall be in place and secure
before a ladder is used, and no ladder should be used if
any fastenings or welds are missing, or if the joints be-
tween the rungs and the side rails are not tight.
9.3.3 Where structural damage or defects make a
ladder hazardous, the ladder shall be taken out of ser-
vice and either repaired by a competent individual or
blocked, fenced, or removed so that it cannot be used.
9.3.4 When repairs are made to fixed ladder sys-
tems, the materials used should be at least the equiva-
lent of the original constrction.
9.3.5 Records should be maintained of annual or
regularly scheduled inspections and maintenance to
fixed ladder systems.
9.3.6 If grounding protection has been provided for
14
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the ladder, then the ground connection (or connec-
tions) to the ladder shall be inspected for continuity
at least annually.
9.3.7 If a ladder safety device is provided, it should
be inspected in accordance with the manufacturers
recommendations.
9.3.8 Depending on the geographical location of
the ladder and the amount of ultraviolet rays (sun-
light) to which a glass-fiber-reinforced plastic ladder is
subjected, periodic maintenance to overcome deteriora-
tion may be required. As a result of the abovementioned
conditions, some degree of glass fiber prominence may
be apparent. If this condition is evident, it is suggested
that the following procedure be used to cover the ex-
posed glass fiber.
The ladder should be washed with a suitable com-
merical solvent or liquid detergent solution compatible
with its composition and allowed to air dry, Safety
procedures involving adequate ventilation, no smoking,
and proper personnel protective equipment shall be
employed when using these substances, Handling of the
ladder after it has been washed should be kept to a
minimum. The ladder rail should be brushed or sprayed
with a good commercially available grade of acrylic
lacquer, polyurethane coating, or other suitable ma-
terial. Depending on the degree of glass fiber promi-
nence, one or two coats may be required. It is m-
portant to read and use the directions supplied by the
various material manufacturers of any substance used
in a maintenance program.
9.3.9 If a glass-fiber-reinforced plastic fixed ladder
is to be installed out-of-doors,it is recommended that
a coat of good commercially available slip-resistant
paste wax or other suitable material be used on the
fiberglass side rails of the ladders. This will greatly de-
crease the possibility of glass fiber prominence. It is
further suggested that a semiannual coating program
be carried out to ensure longevity of the ladder. It is
important to read the instructions supplied by the vari-
ous material manufacturers of any substance used in a
maintenance program. Glass-fiber-reinforced plastic
ladders that are used in areas of high humidity, such as
the seacoast atmosphere, should be coated with one of
several commercially available materials, which will
significantly enhance the life and the appearance of the
ladder. The ladder supplier should be contacted for
recommended practices to be followed in this field
(in-service) maintenance program.
9.3.10 Ladders of wood or wood components
may be coated with a nonconductive finish such as
varnish, shellac, or a clear or tinted preservative. Lad-
ders shall not be coated with any opaque covering ex-
cept for a minimum amount needed for identification
or warning, and then only on one face of the side rails.
 A N S I A 3 4 . 3 4 4 W 2 5 7 5 5 3 2 0 0 0 8 3 7 2 i.I =
AMERICAN NATIONAL STANDARD A14.3-1984

10. Revision of American National Standards

Referred to in This Document
t
When the American National Standards referred to
in this document are superseded by a revision ap-
proved by the American National Standards Institute,
Inc, the revision shall apply.

- FIXED LADDER RANGE -7

O0
Fig. 1
Pitch of Fixed Ladders

15

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 A N S I A311-3 8Ll W 2 5 7 5 5 3 2 0008373 b W

AMERICAN NATIONAL STANDARD A14.3-1984

n- -3 ft 6 in MIN

-ASCENT
24 f t OR LESS

GROUND LEVEL, FLOOR, OR ROOF

I
I - P A S E E FIG.11 FOR

DESCENT
24 f t OR LESS

Fig. 2
Length of Climb 24 ft or Less - Cage, Well, or
Ladder Safety Device Not Required

-3 f t 6 in MIN

CAGE OR LADDER
SAFETY DEVICE
- 24 f t
OR LESS
-GREATER THAN 24 f t

It
7 f t MIN
8 f t MAX

Fig. 3
Length of Climb 24 ft or Less with Elevated Access -
Cage or Ladder Safety Device Required

16

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 GREATER THAN 24 f t
NOT TO EXCEED 50ft

GROUND LEVEL, FLOOR, OR ROOF

EXCEED 50ft

Fig. 4
Single Length of Climb Greater Than 24 ft but Not Exceeding 50 ft -
Cage, Well, or Ladder Safety Device Required

17

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 A N S I A34.3 84 = 2575532 0008375 T m

AMERICAN NATIONAL STANDARD A14.3-1984

- 50 f t M A X
EACH SECTION

-50 f t MAX

- 5 O f t MAX

-
ASCENT DESCENT

(a)
Multiple Sections, 50 f t Max Each Section When Cages or Wells Are Provided
(Ladder Safety Devices May Also Be Used)

LADDER
SAFETY
DEVICE-

-150 f t

- i50ft MAX

GROUND LEVEL,
FLOOR, OR ROOF

ELEVATION SIDE VIEW

(b)
'Continuous Length of Climb 150 f t Max
between Platforms When Ladder Safety Device Is Provided
Fig. 5
Total Lengths of Climb Greater Than 50 ft - Platforms and Cages,
Wells, or Ladder Safety Devices Required
18

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 12-in MAX CENTERS,
ALL RUNGS 3 f t 6 in MIN

16-in CLEAR WIDTH MIN

BETWEEN SIDE RAILS
15

IO f t O-in NOMINAL
MAX SPACING
OF SUPPORTS
(SEE 5.2.4)

MIN CLEARANCE
TO ANY PERMANENT
OBSTRUCTION
FOR LADDER
WITHOUT CAGE
OR WELL
7 i n MIN
12 in MAX
4SUPPORT SPACING, LADDER SIDE CLEARANCES
DIMENSIONS AND SIDE CLEARANCES FOR SIDE-STEP LADDERS

Fig. 6
Support and Ladder Dimensions and Side Clearances

19

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 ANSI Al4.3 84 = 2575532 0008177 3

AMERICAN NATIONAL STANDARD A14.3-1984

MIN
CROSS SECTION

Fig. 7
Individual Rung Ladders - Suggested Design of Rungs

DEVICE IS USED

R PLATFORM
__ __ .~

WALL ANCHOR

STEPS OR RUNGS

-7 in :... -9 .. . ...
.,
MIN Y.,. ,.y.. ...?
___I Q

GRATING .. .
PLATFORM rFLOOR FASTENER .:.d...+.,.'

Il,/
Q. v.
FLOOR OR :p 0:. .'
PLATFORM L I N E 7
.' .4 ., .q.'
.Q . .
EL EVA? I

Fig. 8
Termination at Floor or Platform

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 A N S I A1Li.3 8 4 m 2575512 0008178 5 m
AMERICAN NATIONAL STANDARD A14.3-1984

-3ft
MIN

7T

I
-3 f t 6 in

1
MIN r f t 6 i n p
FLUSH
TOP OF WITH
RUNG STOP
FLUSH
WITH
ROOF3

ACCESS OVER ACCESS THRU

I 'I ACCESS OVER
PARAPET PA RAPET GRAVEL STOP
Fig. 9
Terminations at Roof

VERTICAL

Fig. 10
Grab Bars

21

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 ANSI A34.3 8 4 W 2 5 7 5 5 3 2 0 0 0 8 3 7 7 7 W
AMERICAN NATIONAL STANDARD A14.3-1984

$ LADDER LADDER
7 i n MIN
II
AND WELL 7 in M I N 1 , AND WELL

5 in NOMINAL-

RAIL LADDER INDIViDUAL

RUNG LADDER
ia)
Horizontal Sections
Rectangular Wells

i I

-3' 4 - h MIN, 3 7 - i n M
MAX

T
WELL
W E L L DIAMETER
DIAMETER

RAIL LADDER INDIViDUAL

RUNG LADDER

(b)
Horizontal Sections
Circular Wells

Fig. 1 1
General Arrangements for Ladders in Wells

22

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 23

COPYRIGHT American National Standards Institute

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 A N S I A34.3 84 2 5 7 5 5 3 2 0008383 5 W

AMERICAN NATIONAL STANDARD A14.3-1984

r 1 24-in MIN
REDUCED CLEARANCE
(SEE FIG.11 FOR
NORMAL CLEARANCES)
fCURB

Fig. 12
Deflector Plate for Hatch Opening with Reduced Clearance

CLEARANCE AS

~UTOMATIC
HATCH WIDTH HOLD-OPEN
24 in AND OPERATING
FACE-FACE OF ARMS, ONE EACH SIDE
OPERATING ARMS

Fig. 13
Counterbalanced Hatch Cover at Roof

24

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 A N S I AL4-3 A4 a 2575532 0008382 7

AMERICAN NATIONAL STANDARD A14.3-1984

o
*

(5

NORMAL CLEARANCE REDUCED-CLEARANCE

DEFLECTOR P L A T E FOR
HEAD HAZARDS

Fig. 14
Minimum Ladder Clearances

25

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I AMERICAN NATIONAL STANDARD A14.3-1984

-10 ft O in MAX

-10 f t O in M A X
(SEE 5.2.4)

Fig. 15
Through Ladder Clearances - Ladder Placed Far from Wall

26

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 A N S I A1'4.3 8'4 2 5 7 5 5 1 2 O008184 O W

AMERICAN NATIONAL STANDARD A14.3-1984

A" 2 x -in HORIZONTAL BANDS/

18 in M I N 7
1 3
I t 1 I- X- -in
2 16
15 in MIN3
20 in MAX
u T

27 in MIN
VERTICAL BARS7

r30in MAX
.-IZ
a
Yi
.
I-

Po

ACCESS THROUGH ACCESS LATERALLY EXAMPLE F CAGE

LADDER FROM LADDER ELEVATION

Fig. 16
Example of the General Construction of Cages

27

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 ANSI A 1 4 . 3 8 4 2595512 0008185 2

AMERICAN NATIONAL STANDARD A14.3-1984

-7 I
in M
III
NI1
-I...,.
f t 2 i n_I_I f t 3 in RADIUS-

I
3
r
L

- I

2 x 4
- i n HORIZONTAL
i
I
I
1 3 -in
12x16 VERTICAL

Fig. 17
Example of a Cage Plan

28

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 American National Standards
The standard in this booklet is one of 8000 standards approved to date by
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