Fixed Access Ladders
The Safetylyne Access Ladder system develops and engineered to provide an adaptable, modular solution for ladder access between service areas for internal and external uses.
Constructed of structural grade aluminium extrusions designed to increase grip ratings and ladder spans, providing a cutting-edge access solution which complies with AS 1657.
Fixed Access Ladders for Industrial Height Safety
Fixed roof access ladders provide critical vertical and inclined access in industrial plants, commercial facilities, and rooftops where regular maintenance and inspection are required. Manufactured from structural aluminium and designed to meet AS1657:2018 standards, they offer long-term durability, weather resistance, and compliance with workplace safety requirements.
Comparing Angled Ladders and Vertical Ladders
Angled Ladders
Angled ladders are a traditional choice for accessing elevated areas in various industrial and commercial settings. These ladders are securely attached to the structure at a fixed angle, typically ranging from 60 to 75 degrees. One of the key advantages of angled ladders is their simplicity and ease of installation. They are often preferred when space constraints or structural limitations make other options impractical.
Vertical Ladders
Vertical ladders often equipped with fall arrest systems, offer a different approach to height safety. These ladders consist of a cable or rail system that runs alongside the climbing path. Workers use a harness and lanyard to attach themselves to the line, providing continuous fall protection as they ascend or descend.
The primary advantage of vertical step ladders is their versatility and adaptability to various structures and environments. They can be installed on buildings, towers, and other elevated structures, offering reliable fall protection without the need for a traditional ladder structure. Vertical ladders are particularly well-suited for situations where space is limited or where regular ladder use may not be practical.
Choosing the Right Solution
When choosing between angled and vertical ladders, it’s important to consider a few key factors:
+ Space and Structure
Evaluate the available space and the structure of the building or facility where the height safety system will be installed. Angled ladders may be more suitable for structures with ample space and clear access points, while vertical ladders offer greater flexibility in tight or unconventional spaces.
+ Usage and Frequency
Consider how often the height safety system will be used and the specific tasks it will be used for. Angled ladders are ideal for frequent access to elevated areas, while vertical ladders are better suited for infrequent access requirements.
+ Compliance and Regulations
Ensure that the chosen height safety solution complies with relevant safety regulations and standards in your jurisdiction.
At Safetylyne, we ensure that all of our access ladders are manufactured to the highest standards, using durable materials and robust construction techniques. Our ladders are designed to withstand heavy use and harsh environmental conditions.
With over two decades of expertise in height safety systems, we are dedicated to providing reliable solutions that keep workers safe and secure.
Custom Access Ladder Solutions for All Industries
We specialise in designing, manufacturing, installation and certifcation of custom access ladders tailored to the specific needs of your facility.
Safetylyne’s height safety experts design vertical ladders, folding ladders, caged ladders, platform ladders, and step ladders - each built for safe, compliant access.
All height safety systems meet Australian height safety standards and perform reliably across a wide range of environments.
From industrial sites to commercial buildings, our bespoke ladder solutions support safe movement for maintenance, roof access, and HVAC platforms - even in complex or restricted spaces.
These access ladders are crafted from high-quality aluminium, designed to withstand harsh weather conditions and provide corrosion resistance, making them ideal for outdoor use, including coastal environments.
With anti-slip rungs and options for handrails and safety cages, we ensure your maintenance personnel can work safely at heights. We also offer modular ladder systems that can be tailored to fit complex access requirements, such as HVAC units, warehouses, construction sites, plant room maintenance access etc.
Understanding the Differences: Caged Ladders & Line Ladder Systems
CAGED LADDERS
Caged ladders have long been a staple in various industries for providing safe access to elevated areas such as rooftops, platforms, and mezzanines. These ladders are characterised by their enclosures (cages), typically made of aluminium, surrounding the climbing rungs. The primary purpose of the cage is to prevent falls and provide a secure pathway for ascending and descending.
In line with AS1657:2018 standards, Caged ladders must adhere to specific design and installation requirements to ensure optimal safety. These include appropriate ladder pitch, rung spacing, cage dimensions, and anchorage to a structure capable of withstanding the applied loads. The ladder cage itself must also meet dimensional standards to allow for safe ingress and egress.
One of the key advantages of caged ladders is their inherent stability and reliability. The ladder cage provides a physical barrier that helps to prevent slips and falls, especially in adverse weather conditions or when carrying equipment. Additionally, these cage serves as a visual indicator, making the ladder easily identifiable and promoting compliance with safety protocols.
Ladders with cages are ideal for offering safe and stable access to elevated points. However, if your tasks often involve carrying bulky equipment, we suggest looking at access stairs or stair towers. Our consultant can assess your specific situation and needs to help you find the right access solutions for your site.
LINE LADDERS
These systems feature a vertical lifeline that runs alongside the ladder, providing continuous fall protection for the user. The lifeline is typically attached to an overhead anchorage point and incorporates a sliding mechanism that moves with the user as they ascend or descend the ladder.
AS1657:2018 standards also govern line ladder systems, including requirements for the lifeline, anchorage, and ladder structure. Regular inspection and maintenance are essential to ensure these systems remain safe and effective.
One of the primary benefits of line ladder systems is their versatility and adaptability to various environments.
Unlike caged ladders, which require a dedicated enclosure, line systems can be installed on existing ladder structures, minimising the need for extensive modifications.
Additionally, the continuous fall protection offered by the vertical lifeline enhances worker safety, particularly in high-risk scenarios like work at heights.
Choosing the Right System
When determining whether to implement a caged ladder or a line ladder system, several factors must be considered, including the specific application, environmental conditions, regulatory requirements, and user preferences. Both systems have their unique strengths and limitations, and the decision should be based on a thorough risk assessment and consultation with height safety experts.
The Safetylyne Way
At Safetylyne, we are dedicated to developing end-to-end roof safety and maintenance access solutions tailored to our clients' evolving needs. As your trusted partner, we offer specialised insights into proprietary engineered systems and custom access solutions, simplifying the complexities surrounding access solutions. Contact the Safetylyne team, experts in height safety, today to explore tailored solutions for your height safety and maintenance access needs.
Reach out to us at info@safetylyne.com.au or call 1-800-666-686
Rung Ladders and Step Widths:
Compliance With Australian Regulations
Rung stairs, or ladder stairs, are designed for steep or vertical access, commonly used in industrial or maintenance environments with limited space.
These stairs feature cylindrical or flat rungs rather than traditional steps, and they are used for short-term access or infrequent use, such as in areas where only maintenance workers need to access equipment or rooftops.
Step Widths and Australian Standards
In Australia, the
width and design of steps or rungs are regulated to ensure safety.
Guidelines for Access Stairs:
- Minimum Step Width
According to AS 1657, the standard governing fixed platforms, walkways, stairways, and ladders, access stairs must have a minimum width of 600mm for standard stairways. However, wider steps are often used in high-traffic areas to accommodate multiple users and improve safety.
- Rung Width for Ladders
Rung stairs or ladders require rungs that are at least 400mm wide to provide sufficient stability and support. The spacing between rungs should typically range between 230mm and 300mm to allow safe and comfortable climbing.
- Tread Depth and Angle
For standard stairs, the tread depth is recommended to be not less than 185mm.
The angle of inclination for stairs generally ranges between 30° and 50°, depending on the type of access required and frequency of use. For rung stairs or steep access, inclinations closer to 60° or even vertical angles may be permitted, provided that proper safety systems, such as handrails or safety cages, are in place.
These regulations ensure that both rung stairs and traditional access stairs provide safe and reliable access to elevated or hard-to-reach areas, supporting the safety of workers in industrial, maintenance, and construction environments.
Are ladders suitable for fire escape solutions compliance?
- it depends on the building height. Learn more about Fire Escape Access Solutions here.
Nationwide Installation and Compliance
As a trusted provider of access systems across Australia, Safetylyne offers nationwide installation of access ladders, with a quick turnaround to ensure your projects remain on schedule. Whether you're located in Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne, Adelaide, Cairns, and other locations in Australia, our experienced team provides on-site assessments, ensuring that each step ladder is perfectly fitted and meets the safety requirements of your facility.
Our ladders are designed to comply with Australian Standards AS1657, providing you with peace of mind that your site is equipped with the safest and most reliable access solutions available.
Our commitment to delivering customised access solutions goes beyond just ladders. We integrate our ladders with roof
walkways,
guardrails, and
platforms to provide comprehensive access systems that enhance safety and efficiency across your entire facility.
Have a Question? Contact Safetylyne today
