When Fences and Fixed Ladders Fail: A Real Rooftop Risk Story

This is the first story in a three-part series highlighting real rooftop access failures and the safer, smarter solutions that LadderPort offers.

When it comes to rooftop access, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. While fixed exterior ladders and roof hatches are often the go-to choices in commercial design, they don’t always offer the safety, security, or practicality required for every situation.

Sometimes, the very systems we assume are "safe enough" can create the illusion of security—until something goes wrong. Architects, specifiers, and building managers must consider not only OSHA codes, but also how the building environment is actually used—and misused.

LadderPort ladder receivers offer a code-compliant, tamper-resistant, and aesthetic solution that addresses a range of access challenges. They’re easy to specify, blend seamlessly with most buildings, and add measurable architectural value.

Fixed Ladder Failure Leads to Skating Teens

Based on a true story from a LadderPort customer

"Our company owns unoccupied commercial buildings. To prevent unauthorized access, we invested in secure fencing systems—locked and designed to be hard to scale.

Unfortunately, that wasn’t enough.

During a routine inspection of one two-story property, our team arrived to a shocking sight: several teenagers were using the roof as an impromptu ice-skating rink. Yes, really.

They scaled the perimeter fence, climbed the permanently mounted fixed ladder on the exterior, and accessed the flat, icy rooftop to skate. One unavoidable stop could have easily resulted in a 20-foot skating accident—right off the roof."

The fence did its job. The fixed ladder didn’t.

A LadderPort ladder receiver, on the other hand, would’ve kept the building secure. The odds of someone hauling an extension ladder over that fence? Slim to none.

When rooftop access equipment is part of the problem, not the solution, it’s time to rethink your approach. Ladder receivers offer a practical, OSHA-compliant way to reduce liability and increase safety—especially for buildings that are vacant or intermittently occupied.

Why Ladder Receivers Add Value:

• Safer than fixed ladders: Used only when needed, and by those authorized to bring proper equipment

• Tamper-resistant: Reduces the risk of unauthorized roof access

• Easier to specify and install: Clean, code-compliant, and practical for many buildings

• Architectural value: Maintains building aesthetics without compromising function

  
  

To learn more about how LadderPort ladder receivers can be the smarter, safer alternative to fixed ladders, contact us for project consultations or download our spec sheets today.

Get ahead of the curve—design smarter roof access solutions.

Stay tuned for Story 2 in our three-part series.