Nick Mueller wrote:

Howard Eisenhauer wrote:

But I've seen as bad as that in many buildings getting up to the roof
top or equipment penthouse.

Unsuited for frequent access. Once a year is OK.

It certainly wouldn't meet code for any
public area or residence though.

You'll only come down backwards. Or the stairs are samba-style (if you are
using that expression. If not: http://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sambatreppe).
But still they are a pain and quite dangerous.

Nick
--
The lowcost-DRO:
http://www.yadro.de

Seems like a standard ship ladder, can't be that dangerous, just need to
have a clue. I believe they are available as pre-fab off the shelf items
from some of the regular ladder manufacturers.