The Hidden Hazards of Shared Roof Access: Why Compliance Starts at the Ladder

Michele Oras
Jul 17
2 min read

In commercial and industrial buildings, it's common for roof access to be shared between HVAC techs, maintenance crews, and third-party contractors. But when multiple people use the same fixed ladder system safety compliance becomes a shared responsibility – and a potential liability.

Silver ladder leaning against a white wall, extending upwards into a clear blue sky. Perspective gives a sense of height and ascent.

Who Owns the Risk?

If your building provides access to the roof, you're responsible for ensuring that access is safe and OSHA-compliant. But what happens when vendors or tenants bring their own contractors? Even if you didn't hire the worker, you're still liable if an injury occurs due to an unsafe ladder system or missing safety features.

Common Issues with Shared Roof Access

No secure ladder connection: If a portable ladder isn't secured to the building, it increases the risk of slips and falls.
Fixed ladders with gate: Gates are often left unlocked, creating easy access for vandals and theives—every key holder is liable if something goes wrong.
Missing transition aids: Moving from ladder to roof without grab bars or a stable step platform invites missteps and falls.
Unclear access policies: When there's no signage or restricted access policy, anyone can climb up.

Compliance Starts at the Base

The best way to manage shared access risk is to install purpose-built, OSHA-compliant solutions at the point of entry. LadderPort ladder receivers and LadderDocks create a safer and more controlled access environment.

LadderPort: Provides a secure OSHA compliant attachment point for portable ladders, keeping them stable and aligned.
LadderDock: Prevents ladder movement and protects building surfaces during use and still allows the user to meet OSHA regulations.

Why Architects and Facility Managers Should Care

If you're designing or maintaining a building with shared roof access, incorporating these components ensures you're not just meeting OSHA standards—you're reducing liability and increasing user safety. It also sets a clear standard for contractors and service providers who access the roof.

Final Thought: Don't Wait for a Violation

Shared access doesn’t mean shared accountability. If you're the property owner or facility manager, you're responsible. Upgrading your roof access system now is cheaper than paying for an injury later.

Ready to secure your roof access? Explore LadderPort and LadderDock solutions to reduce risk and improve safety at the source. Visit ladderport.com to get started.