Used when there’s a significant distance to climb, these ladders come equipped with a safety cage to protect climbers from falling.
Marine cage ladders, also known as safety or caged ladders, are common fixtures on various marine vessels like ships and offshore platforms (such as oil rigs or wind turbines).
What are the primary?
- Access Between Levels: Like other ladders, cage ladders are primarily used to provide access between different levels or decks on a vessel or platform. They’re often found in areas where space is limited or where the height to be climbed is significant.
- Safety in High Places: The key difference between regular ladders and cage ladders is the safety cage that surrounds the upper part of the ladder. This cage provides an extra level of safety for people climbing at height, preventing falls and providing something to hold onto if the climber gets tired or dizzy.
- Access to Machinery or Equipment: In industrial settings, cage ladders are often used to provide safe access to machinery, equipment, or inspection points that require routine maintenance or monitoring.
- Emergency Escape Routes: In addition to normal use, cage ladders can also form part of a ship’s or platform’s emergency escape routes, allowing personnel to descend safely from height.
- Durable in Harsh Conditions: Given their robust construction, cage ladders are designed to withstand the harsh conditions of the marine environment, making them suitable for exterior use on vessels and offshore platforms.
As with all equipment on marine vessels and offshore platforms, cage ladders must comply with safety standards and regulations set by authorities like the International Maritime Organization (IMO) or the International Organization for Standardization (ISO). This includes standards related to construction materials, safety features, lighting, and emergency evacuation considerations.