• Do I need a side step fixed ladder or a walk through fixed ladder?

• How long should the ladder be?

• Do I need a fixed ladder with a cage or without a cage?

• Do I need a security gate or a security panel?

• What type of material should the ladder be made of?

Do I need a side step fixed ladder or a walk through fixed ladder? As the name implies, a side step fixed ladder is normally used to climb partially up the ladder and then step to one side onto an adjacent platform, floor or dock.  With a walk through fixed ladder one “walks through” the handrails that are at the top of the fixed ladder onto a roof or upper deck.

How long should the ladder be?  First determine the height that will be accessed.  If the fixed ladder is wall mounted, subtract from that height 1 foot.  This will allow the first rung of the ladder to be mounted 1 foot (+/-) above the floor.  It the fixed ladder is floor mounted, there is no need to subtract 1 foot from the height that will be accessed.

Do I need a fixed ladder with a cage or without a cage?  Safety cages provide some fall protection for the user.  The higher the elevation being accessed with the fixed ladder, the greater the need is for a cage.  Please check the building code in your area prior to ordering the ladder to ensure you will meet code after the ladder is installed.

Do I need a security gate or a security panel?  Security gates and/or panels discourage unauthorized use of the fixed ladder.  Security gates are mounted on the bottom of the cage of a fixed ladder.  Accordingly, security gates can only be used on fixed ladders with a cage.  Security panels are mounted on one of the ladder rails and goes across the rungs.  Both gates and panels are to be used with a lock (by others).  As with any security precaution, unauthorized use of the ladder cannot be guaranteed.

What type of material should the ladder be made of?  Ladders are usually made of painted steel, but some models are available in aluminum and stainless steel.  Painted steel ladders are less expensive, but must be protected from the elements.  Aluminum and stainless steel ladders are more expensive, but are rust resistant.