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Emergency-only fixed ladder without cage or platforms

Summary An OSHA region asked about a 120-foot fixed ladder used only for emergency exit. OSHA said the cage and platform requirements did not apply to that emergency-only ladder and advised posting 'Emergency Use Only' signs at both ends. OSHA archives the memo.
Document
Federal opinion letter
Agency
Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)
Document number
1978-05-17
Date issued
May 17, 1978
Status
Archived by the agency
OSHA labels this an archive document and warns that it may no longer represent OSHA policy.
Status last verified October 10, 2026
Topics
Workplace Safety OSHA 1910 Fixed Ladders Emergency Egress
Source
View the official document

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OSHA labels this an archive document and warns that it may no longer represent OSHA policy. It may no longer reflect the agency's current position. Treat this page as historical context, not current guidance, and verify current law before relying on anything here.
About this page: The full text below is the official document from Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). Ezel adds the plain-English summary and tracks the document's status. The official source linked on this page is authoritative for any reliance.

NOTICE: This is an OSHA Archive Document, and may no longer represent OSHA Policy. It is presented here as historical content, for research and review purposes only.

May 17, 1978

MEMORANDUM FOR:
BARRY J. WHITE, REGIONAL ADMINISTRATOR
Region V - Chicago

ATTN:
MILAN RACIC/JOE BODE

FROM:
BRUCE HILLENBRAND Acting Director,
Federal Compliance and State Programs

SUBJECT:
Fixed Ladder Used For Emergency Egress Only

This is to confirm a telephone conversation between Joe Bode and Bob Daly of our staff on the above subject.

It is our opinion that the fixed straight ladder 120' feet high and located on the outside of the elevator is used for emergency egress only and does not have to comply with the cage and platform requirements of 29 CFR 1910.27. However, employer should post "Emergency Use Only" signs at both ends of the ladder.

I am enclosing a copy of memorandum for Vernon Strahm for Richard P. Wilson dated April 29, 1977 for your information.

Enclosure

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