Ladder Fall Arrest Systems

Protect Workers with Both Active and Passive Ladder Fall Arrest Systems

Secure Climbing Solutions: Active and Passive Ladder Fall Arrest Systems

When working at height, OSHA mandates that employers protect workers from falls using compliant safety systems. There are two types of ladder fall protection systems: active and passive.

  • Active Systems require worker involvement (e.g., harnesses, lanyards, lifelines).

  • Passive Systems are built-in and require no user action (e.g., guardrails, gates, cages).

Ladder Fall Arrest Systms

Secure Climbing Solutions: Active and Passive Ladder Fall Arrest Systems

If you manage safety or facilities, OSHA requires fall protection at 4 feet or higher—including for external ladders. Here’s what that means in real terms:

OSHA-Compliant Protection Options

  • Active Fall Protection
    If workers use a personal fall arrest or restraint system (harness/lifeline), no additional system is required.

  • Passive Fall Protection
    If a perimeter guardrail is present, a self-closing gate is required to close the ladder opening (≥19″).
    If neither system is in place, you must install a ladder guard with a self-closing gate.

  • For ladders over 24 feet, OSHA requires an active personal fall arrest system—passive systems alone won’t meet the standard.

Active Ladder Fall Protection Systems

These systems require worker engagement (harness, lifeline, anchor). Ideal for fixed ladders over 24 feet:

  •  Vertical cable systems
  • Full-body harness with
  • front D-ring
  •  Traveler device
  •  Mounting brackets, tensioners, and cable guides

Hands-free movement + OSHA compliance = safer, more efficient access.

Passive Fall Protection Systems

No worker interaction needed. Passive systems stay in place and protect by design:

  • Ladder Guards
    Protects workers near roof edges, keeping them 6 feet clear of the leading edge during access.

  • Self-Closing Gates
    Spring-loaded gates for openings 17–48″. Mounts to walls or posts.

  • Fixed Ladder Cages
    Still in use but no longer OSHA-compliant for ladders >24 ft on new or replaced ladders.

  • Rooftop Guardrails & Warning Line Systems
    Provides additional rooftop safety once access is achieved—complementary to ladder protection.

We Design. Install. Maintain.

W.W. Cannon provides turnkey fall protection systems—from evaluation and product selection to installation and service. Our ladder safety solutions are built for OSHA compliance and long-term facility protection.

Need help choosing the right system? Contact our team today.

Product Documents

Garlock LadderGuard Fixed Ladder Fall Prevention
Garlock Self-Closing Safety Gates
Kattsafe Ladder Fall Arrest System
Kattsafe Ladder Fall Arrest Tech Specs
Wildeck LadderGard Safety Swing Gate
YellowGate Self-Closing Safety Gates
OSHA 1910.28 – Duty to provide fall protection and falling object protection
OSHA 1910.29 – Fall protection systems and falling object protection criteria and practices
OSHA 1910.140 – Personal Protective Equipment
OSHA Compliant Roof Safety
Rooftop Fixed Ladder Fall Prevention

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W.W. Cannon’s Turnkey Service Solutions result in a strong return on your investment. Get in touch with one of our specialists today for a complimentary consultation. We’ll answer any questions you have and help you plan your next steps.

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