Section 408.10335. Clearance.

(1) The perpendicular distance from the center line of the rungs on the climbing side of a fixed ladder shall be not less than 36 inches for a pitch of 76 degrees, and not less than 30 inches for a pitch of 90 degrees to the nearest permanent object, except with respect to a cage or well installation. The minimum clearance for intermediate pitches between these 2 limits shall be in proportion to the slope. (See figure 2.)

(2)   A clear width of not less than 15 inches shall be provided each way from the center line of the fixed ladder to the nearest permanent object, except with respect to a cage or well installation.

(3)   The perpendicular distance from the center line of the rung on the back side of a fixed ladder to the nearest permanent object shall be not less than 7 inches, except that when an unavoidable object is encountered, the minimum clearances shown in figure 2 shall be followed.

(4)    The distance from the center line of a grab bar to   the nearest permanent object in back of the grab bar shall be not less than 4 inches. A grab bar shall not protrude on the climbing side.

(5)   The step across distance from the nearest edge of a fixed ladder to equipment or a structure shall be not less than 2 1/2 inches nor more than 12 inches. (See figure 3.)

(6)   Where used, a counterweighted hatch cover shall open not less than 60 degrees from the horizontal. The distance from the center line of the rungs or cleats to the edge of the hatch opening on the climbing side shall be not less than 24 inches for offset walls or 30 inches for straight walls. Protruding potential hazards shall not be permitted within 24 inches of the center line of the rungs or cleats. Such hazards within 30 inches of the center line of the rungs or cleats shall be fitted with deflector plates placed at an angle of 60 degrees to the horizontal. (See figure 4.) The relationship of a fixed ladder to a counterweighted hatch cover shall be as prescribed in figure 5.

Figure for 408.10335 (1 of 2)

Figure for 408.10335 (2 of 2)

History: 1979 AC.