Ladders no longer need fall protection, just cages

The US Labor Department is proposing to remove a deadline that required employers to install fall protection systems on tall fixed ladders. This means employers can continue using older ladder cage systems instead of newer, more expensive fall arrest systems.

This change loosens safety requirements for fixed ladders over 24 feet tall. It allows employers to stick with existing ladder cages, which are less effective at preventing falls than personal fall arrest systems. This could mean more workers are exposed to fall risks, though the agency is seeking comment on the change.