Using the wrong ladder can be dangerous, as each one has its own limitations. Ignoring these limitations can result in a serious fall and even injury. So it’s important to know how to find the right ladder for the job. Take a look at our guide to find out.
The Style
Because there are different types of ‘elevated’ work, there are different ladder designs to suit them that keep you safe and productive in a variety of circumstances. Simply by looking at a retailer like Globe Ladders you’ll be able to see how overwhelming the array of ladders is.
Working indoors will be limited to 8 foot, so stepladders, platform ladders or multipurpose ladders are usually recommended. Outdoor work, however, will need a much further reach of thirteen feet or more. For this, a multipurpose or extension ladder is much more appropriate.
Size
The height of the ladder is particularly important. You need to remember when looking for a ladder of the right height that you should never stand on the top two rungs of a ladder. It becomes too dangerous as a person standing this high could easily lose their balance and fall. The maximum safe reaching height of a person is about 4 foot higher than the ladder. This should therefore be taken into consideration if you’re looking for a certain height of ladder.
When using extension ladders, the highest support or point of contact should be approximately 7-10 feet before the end of the ladder. The highest standing level is four rungs down.
The Duty Rating
The duty rating gives you an indication of the maximum capacity the ladder can carry. There is no relation between ladder height and the duty rating, so be sure to remember to check the rating before you buy or use a new ladder.
The five categories of duty ratings are:
- IAA – 375 pounds
- IA – 300 pounds
- I – 250 pounds
- II – 225 pounds
- III – 200 pounds
Make sure that you add your weight, your clothes, your tools and anything stored on the ladder so you know the total weight your ladder needs to support.
Material
The material you buy your ladder in will have an impact on what it can be used for. There are three main materials that ladders are made from: wood, fibreglass and aluminium. Wood is heavy yet economical, but is electrically non-conductive when not wet. Fibreglass is great value for money and is used by most professionals, and doesn’t conduct electricity. Aluminium is lightweight and easy to extend, but cannot be used for electrical work. A more in-depth guide is here.
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