The Hidden Danger of Ladder Gates
- Michele Oras
- 5 days ago
- 2 min read
Facility managers often install ladder gates with the best intentions—to restrict unauthorized access and improve worker safety. But in the field, one problem shows up again and again: gates left unlocked.
What looks like a protective measure is, in reality, no protection at all.
The Illusion of Safety
An unlocked ladder gate sends the wrong message. From a distance, it appears secure. To a passerby, it looks like access is restricted. In practice, anyone can open it without effort.
This illusion of security is dangerous because it:
Creates complacency among staff and contractors.
Leads managers to assume a control measure is in place.
Provides no real deterrent to unauthorized access.
What We See in the Field
Across industrial and commercial sites, it’s common to find:
Gates left swinging freely.
Latches never engaged.
Hardware worn or bypassed entirely.
These gates are functionally useless. Worse, they give both leadership and OSHA inspectors the impression that safety controls are being met—when they are not.
The Real Risk of Unlocked Ladder Gates
Unlocked gates introduce serious risks:
Security concerns: Anyone can climb without resistance.
Regulatory exposure: OSHA 1910.23 requires employers to ensure safe access points are maintained—not just installed.
False confidence: Believing a gate is “doing its job” when it’s not can lead to overlooked vulnerabilities elsewhere.
How Ladderport Solves the Problem
Ladderport eliminates the issue by removing the gated permanent ladder altogether. Instead, we focus on secure, code-compliant access solutions that don’t rely on a latch being used correctly every single time.
By addressing the vulnerability at its source, Ladderport helps facilities achieve:
Consistent security with no moving parts to forget.
Reduced compliance risk through permanent solutions.
Improved worker safety without the illusion of control.
An unlocked ladder gate isn’t just ineffective—it’s a liability. Don’t let your facility fall into the trap of “looks safe” but isn’t.
See how Ladderport eliminates this vulnerability with permanent ladder safety solutions. Contact our team today to discuss code-compliant access options for your facility.