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Fixed ladder rung dimensions while a rule is under review

Summary A manufacturer asked about fixed ladder rung dimensions while OSHA was reviewing its standard. OSHA restated the then-current maximum 12-inch spacing and 16-inch minimum clear rung length, and said the existing rule remained in force until the review was complete. OSHA archives the letter.
Document
Federal opinion letter
Agency
Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)
Document number
1981-11-27
Date issued
November 27, 1981
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OSHA labels this an archive document and warns that it may no longer represent OSHA policy.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 Access Rulemaking
Source
View the official document

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The current status of this document is unclear
OSHA labels this an archive document and warns that it may no longer represent OSHA policy.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 Treat this page as historical context, not current guidance, and verify current law before relying on anything here.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NOTICE: This is an OSHA Archive Document, and may no longer represent OSHA Policy. It is presented here as historical content, for research and review purposes only.

November 27, 1981

Mr. Richard V. Field, P.E.
A.O. Smith Harvecorn Products, Inc.
[Recipient address omitted]

Dear Mr. Field:

Your letter of October 29, 1981 to Mr. Harold White, Safety Supervisor, OSHA, North Aurora Area Office, was submitted to the Regional Office for comment. Attached is a complete copy of the subject standard. Specifically, 1910.27(b)(1)(ii) says that the distance between rungs shall not exceed 12 inches, and be uniform throughout the ladder length and 1910.27(b)(1)(iii) the minimum clear length or rungs shall be 16 inches.

This standard has not been reviewed. It is in the process of being reviewed by our National Office. This review has not been completed. Therefore, the existing standard remains in effect.

We hope this information is of assistance to you. Should you require any additional information please do not hesitate to call us.

Sincerely,

Michael G. Connors,
ARA Technical Support

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