CAT LADDER, SHIPS LADDER, COMPANIONWAY LADDER OR VERTICAL LADDER…

Vertical or Cat Ladder

At T&I Solutions we are well aware that all these phrases and names are used to describe essentially two different things, a fixed ladder parallel to the wall with round or square rungs and an inclined ladder with angled treads. Both ladders are defined in BS4211:2005 + A1 2008 and have a number of practical as well as aesthetic differences.

Cat Ladder or Vertical Ladder

This is a traditional ladder fitted with rungs and normally hoops when the climb height is over 3m and there is no limit to the heights that can be achieved when intermediate rest platforms are included. The ladder will be vertical or at most inclined at 75 degrees and when they include a walkthrough must be fitted with a fullheight self-closing gate.

Ships or Companionway Ladder

Ships Ladder or Companionway Ladder

A ships or companionway ladder has two main differences from a traditional vertical or cat ladder, firstly they are inclined (between 65 and 75 degrees) and they SHOULD NOT BE USED FOR A CLIMB HEIGHT OVER 3M. It is a common misconception tools and equipment can be carried up any inclined ships or companionway ladder, this is not true. Where any goods or equipment are to be regularly carried up, a full staircase should be fitted.