OSHA has officially begun phasing out cages and wells as the primary means of fall protection on fixed ladders. Under the updated regulations, fixed ladders must now be equipped with either a ladder safety system or a personal fall arrest system — a significant shift in how vertical access safety is managed.
What This Means for Existing Caged Ladders
While caged ladders are not immediately prohibited, the clock is ticking. Any fixed ladder currently equipped with a cage or well will no longer be OSHA compliant after November 18, 2036 unless it is upgraded or replaced with a compliant harnessbased system.
OSHA states:
“OSHA is phasing out cages and wells on fixed ladders as the primary means of fall protection. Fixed ladders must now be equipped with ladder safety systems or personal fall arrest systems. All fixed ladders that currently have a cage or well must be modified to meet this requirement.”
That means planning ahead isn’t optional — it’s essential.
Feldmeier is Already Ahead of the Curve.
At Feldmeier, safety and compliance are built into everything we do. That’s why our silos are already available with ViGo® Vertical Cable Lifeline Systems, offering a modern, OSHA compliant ladder safety solution designed to protect workers at height.
These ladder safety systems provide continuous fall protection, reduce user fatigue, and align with OSHA’s updated requirements — helping you stay compliant today and well into the future.
Need to Upgrade an Existing Ladder? We’re Here to Help.
If your facility currently relies on caged ladders, Feldmeier can help you evaluate your options for retrofit or replacement. Our team works with you to identify the best solution for your application, ensuring longterm compliance, improved safety, and peace of mind.
Stay Ahead. Stay Safe.
OSHA’s deadline may feel far away, but upgrading early avoids lastminute costs, downtime, and safety risks.
Choose Feldmeier — and stay ahead of the game. Upgrade your safety today.