Q & A: Portable Ladder - ANSI Standards
Question: “What is the minimum weight capacity allowed for a portable ladder in general industry?”
Answer: Wood, or metal? In relation to portable metal ladders, the 1910.26 standard does state that…
1910.26(c)(3)(ii)
Portable ladders are designed as a one-man working ladder based on a 200-pound load.
1910.25, covering portable wood ladders, makes no mention load capacity.
The American National Standards Institute (ANSI) does specify maximum load capacity for wood and metal ladders by rating, type and load:
Wood
Duty Rating |
Ladder Type |
(Pounds) |
Extra Heavy-Duty |
IA |
300 |
Heavy- Duty |
I |
250 |
Medium-Duty |
II |
225 |
Light-Duty |
III |
200 |
Metal
Duty Rating |
Ladder Type |
(Pounds) |
Special Duty |
IAA |
375 |
Extra Heavy-Duty |
IA |
300 |
Heavy- Duty |
I |
250 |
Medium-Duty |
II |
225 |
Light-Duty |
III |
200 |
There is no general industry guidance from OSHA for these “Walking-Working Surfaces” for minimum capacity.
Learn more about safety training online.
Related Articles
HSI January Newsletter
Your monthly digest of EHS, Compliance, and Professional Development resources and news for you and your business, with something for everyone.
Newsletter
HSI December Newsletter
Your monthly digest of EHS, Compliance, and Professional Development resources and news for you and your business, with something for everyone.
Newsletter
OSHA’s Required Training Frequencies
Workplace Safety
