Introduction

Whether you're a DIY enthusiast or a professional, selecting the right ladder is essential for ensuring safety and efficiency in various tasks. This guide will assist you to choose the right ladder for the job and learn how to use ladders more safely.

 

Ladder Certification

When selecting a ladder, it's important to ensure it meets the necessary safety standards. Here are two key certifications to look for:

BS EN 131 is a European standard for portable ladders. Ladders certified to BS EN 131 are designed to meet stringent safety and performance criteria.

BS 2037 is a British standard specifies requirements for metal ladders, including aluminium and steel ladders. It applies to portable ladders used in industrial and domestic environments. BS 2037 certified ladders must meet rigorous safety, durability, and performance standards.

Ensuring your ladder has these certifications guarantees that it has been tested and meets high safety and quality standards.

 

Material of Ladders

Aluminium

1. Pros: Lightweight, durable, and resistant to rust.
2. Cons: Conductive, making them unsuitable for electrical work.
3. Best For: General-purpose tasks both indoors and outdoors, such as painting, maintenance, or reaching high height workplace.

Fibreglass

1. Pros: Strong, non-conductive, and safe for electrical work.
2. Cons: Heavier and generally more expensive than aluminium ladders.
3. Best For: Heavy-duty tasks and professional use, particularly where electrical safety is a concern.

 

Types of Ladder

Step Stools

Description: Compact, lightweight ladders with two to four steps. Designed for quick and easy access to slightly elevated areas.
Ideal For: Reaching items in kitchen cabinets, closets, or other low-height tasks around the home.
 

Step Ladders

Description: Short, self-supporting ladders “A” Frame ladder with flat steps. Often foldable for easy storage.
Ideal For: Tasks that require a lower reach, such as changing light bulbs, painting, or work at elevated area.
 

Extension Ladders

Description: Single Pole or Extendable ladders that lean against a surface, allowing for significant height adjustment.
Ideal For: Tasks requiring higher reach, such as roof work, tree trimming, or exterior painting.
 

Multipurpose Ladders

Description: Versatile ladders that can be configured in various ways, including as a step ladder, extension ladder, or work platform.
Ideal For: A range of tasks and flexible use. Great for homeowners and professionals who need a versatile tool.
 

Dual Purpose Ladders

Description: Ladders that can be used as both step ladders and single pole ladders.
Ideal For: Flexibility in different tasks, space-saving, and those who need both step and extension functions in one ladder.
 

Platform Ladders

Description: Ladders with a larger, flat platform at the top step, providing a secure standing area. Often includes safety rails for added stability.
Ideal For: Tasks that require prolonged standing at height, such as painting, decorating, or working with tools at an elevated level.

 

Maximum Weight Load

Choose the suitable load capacity of ladder for your job. The weight rating of a ladder includes all the weight the ladder can support, which is the weight of user plus the weight of the tools or equipment carrying by user.

 

Height and Reach

Highest Permitted Standing Level:
The highest permitted standing level on a step ladder is 3 rungs down from the top and 4 rungs down from the top for extension ladder. Standing higher than this can cause a person to lose balance and fall.

Maximum Safe Reaching Height:
A person's maximum safe reaching height is approximately 4 feet higher than the height of the ladder. For example, a typical person can safely reach an 8-foot ceiling while standing on a 4-foot ladder.

Step 1: Measure the highest point you need to reach.
Step 2: Choose to use a ladder slightly higher than you might need, so you avoid the need to stretch to reach the work area, which could make you lose your balance and result in a fall or serious injury.

 

Safety Tips

Proper Use

1. Always read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
2. Ensure the ladder is fully opened and locked before use.
3. Maintain three points of contact (two feet and one hand) while climbing.

 

Inspection

1. Check the ladder for any damage, such as cracks or bent parts, before each use.
2. Do not use a damaged ladder.

 

Stability

1. Place the ladder on a stable, level surface.
2. Use additional supports or ask someone to hold the ladder if necessary.

 

Ladder Pre-Use Check Guide

Stiles: Inspect the stiles to ensure they are not twisted, bent, or damaged. Compromised stiles could cause the ladder to buckle or collapse.

Feet: Confirm that the feet are intact and not missing, worn, or damaged, as this could cause the ladder to slip.

Rungs/Steps: Check that the rungs or steps are not cracked, bent, worn, missing, or loose. Any of these issues could result in ladder failure.

Locking Devices: Ensure that all locking devices are in good condition and functioning correctly. Worn or damaged locking mechanisms could cause the steps to collapse.

Stepladder Platform: Verify that the platform is not split or buckled, as a compromised platform can lead to instability or collapse of the ladder.