What the result helps you understand
The available rise and footprint often determine whether the intended means of access is geometrically plausible before detailed design starts. A quick angle screen can expose a mismatch early.
Access & Safety
AS 1657 Access Slope & Ladder Pitch Calculator
Calculate access angle from rise and horizontal offset, compare it with the selected stair or ladder slope range, and show the offset needed at the range limits.
“I have a fixed platform height and limited floor space. Does the resulting pitch suit stairs, a step-type ladder or a rung ladder?”
Core formulae
Access slope and ladder pitch
Angle to horizontal
θ = tan⁻¹(rise / horizontal offset)Sloping length
L = √(rise² + offset²)Offset at selected angle
offset = rise / tan θThe calculator compares the resulting angle with the selected stair or ladder slope range only.
Simple arrangement sketch
Rise, offset and access angle
1
Access geometry
Enter the vertical rise and horizontal offset between the ladder or stair endpoints.
Results
Slope and pitch screen
Calculated angle to horizontal68.2 °
Sloping length3,231 mm
Selected type range60–70 °
Horizontal offset at steep limit1,092 mm
For the same rise at 70°.
Horizontal offset at shallow limit1,732 mm
For the same rise at 60°.
Calculated pitch falls within the selected access-type slope range
The angle screen is within 60–70°. Continue with the detailed geometry, clearances, landings, handrails and structural requirements for that access type.
Access types whose slope ranges include this angle
Inclined step-type ladder
Slope-only boundary
A matching angle does not establish AS 1657 compliance. This tool does not check rise limits, flights, landings, cages, fall protection, rung/tread geometry, handrails, clearances, access openings or structural capacity.
Job-file record
Save the calculation, not just the number.
Copy a permalink that reloads these inputs, or download a PDF record with inputs, visible results, assumptions, a sensitivity note, date and disclaimer.
Know where the quick calculation stops
Slope only. It does not check landings, maximum flight or ladder length, clearances, cages, fall protection, rungs, treads, handrails, openings, structural loads or whether the selected means of access is suitable for the task.
Important boundary
A calculator can show the arithmetic. It cannot establish every requirement that applies.
Confirm the actual equipment, loading, materials, condition, jurisdiction, contractual requirements, standard edition and current project documentation before using the result for design, repair, testing or lifting decisions.
Ask an engineer about this calculation →