When are fall arrest systems required while climbing ladders?

Fall arrest systems are crucial for ensuring safety during work at heights, particularly for tasks involving ladders. When climbing extension ladders, a fall arrest system is required primarily because these ladders can reach significant heights and often require the climber to maintain three points of contact while ascending or descending. Extension ladders are usually extended to considerable lengths, making a fall more dangerous and increasing the likelihood of injury if a climber falls.

In contrast, straight ladders, steep ladders, and step ladders may have specific safety requirements, but they do not universally necessitate the use of fall arrest systems in many situations. Straight ladders, for instance, might not require a fall arrest system if they are used in low-height applications or if proper safety measures are adhered to. Similarly, step ladders are generally designed for use at lower heights and have built-in stability features that reduce the risk of falling, hence fall arrest systems may not be mandated. The specific requirements can vary based on industry standards, local regulations, and the scenarios in which these ladders are used.