RL40

The Kattsafe RL40 series is the RL30 vertical fixed ladder with an aluminum cage attached. It uses the same stiles, serrated rungs and landing kits, adding 2 x 1/4 inch flat-bar hoops on extruded straps at 48 inch spacing. Logistics Lighting quotes the RL40 for projects whose specification still calls for a caged ladder and ships direct from Kattsafe. Because OSHA changed the rules on cages in 2018, read the note below before specifying.

What OSHA says about cages

As of November 19, 2018, a cage is no longer considered compliant fall protection on newly installed fixed ladders that extend more than 24 feet; a personal fall arrest system or ladder safety system is required instead. By November 18, 2036, existing cages on such ladders must be replaced with a ladder safety or fall arrest system. A cage is still permitted as a supplementary feature, and on ladders under 24 feet it remains a common specification for older facilities and some jurisdictions. Kattsafe's lifeline system can be fitted to the RL40 as well.

Key features of the RL40 series

• Five landing configurations. RL41 grab rails, RL42 parapet platform, RL43 and RL44 8 foot walkway platforms, RL45 3 foot walkway platform.
• Industrial rating. 1,000 lb unit load and 1,000 lb per rung without failure.
• Serrated square rungs at 12 inch spacing on 6106-T6 stiles.
• Modular kit cut to height on site, with stainless fasteners; mill finish or powder coat.
• Compliance and warranty. Meets OSHA 1910.23 and 1910.28 and Cal-OSHA 3277 as applicable; five-year warranty.

Specifications

• Material: 5000 and 6000 series structural aluminum; stiles 2-1/4 x 1-1/2 x 1/8 in
• Overall width 23-3/4 in; between stiles 20-5/8 in; stile extension above the landing 42 in
• Cage: 2 x 1/4 in flat-bar hoops on 2 x 1/2 x 1/8 in extruded straps, hoops at 48 in maximum
• Weight: 6.4 lb per 40 in ladder section plus 18 lb per 40 in cage section
• Clearance behind the ladder 7 in minimum; platform required above 12 in; rest platforms at most every 150 ft
• Kit heights under 24 ft: RL41 to 100, 147, 195, 240 and 289 in; RL42 to 94, 141, 189, 234 and 283 in
• Mounting: LD421.280 wall bracket standard; LD419F non-penetrating base plate or LD419S floor mount

Where the RL40 fits

For new work we usually recommend the uncaged RL30 with a vertical lifeline, which is lighter, cheaper to ship and meets the current rule at any height. Specify the RL40 where the drawings call for a cage or the owner's standard requires one. Under 16 feet the angled RL20 is the easiest climb. Finish the landing with the GRLP ladder protector and a hatch rail or GR34 guardrail; everything is on the roof access and fall protection page.

Frequently asked questions

Can I get a cage on a ladder over 24 feet? Yes, but it must also have a fall arrest or ladder safety system to comply; we quote both.

Where does the cage start? Kattsafe's configuration drawings show where the hoops begin and their 48 inch spacing for each kit height.

What does Kattsafe need to quote? Climb height, wall and floor substrates, wall-to-centerline distance and any obstruction.

How to get a quote

Send the ladder worksheet or call 307-633-9696 with the climb height, landing type and substrates. We confirm the configuration and current lead time on the quote. The data sheet, cage installation manual and configuration drawings are in the Documents tab.

Related reading: OSHA fall protection for skylights, in our daylighting library.