Ladders with a flared base, or a base that extends farther out than typical ladders, offer extra support and stability. Extension ladders and ladders that can be adjusted have locks that ensure your safety. Ladders with slip-resistant rungs or steps help prevent accidents.
Choose what's best for you. FIBERGLASS: Maximum safety and durability. ALUMINUM: Lightweight and strong.
An A-frame or extension ladder may be appropriate for some tasks, but a platform ladder is safer.
Explanation: The safer choice when selecting a ladder is a folding ladder. Folding ladders are designed to be more stable and secure than other types of ladders. They typically have a wider base and anti-slip features, which reduce the risk of accidents or falls.
The best ladders for seniors
The models of the HAILO L100 TopLine series guarantee a notably high level of safe footing thanks to their extra deep, non-slip steps, and are stable household ladders suitable for the elderly.
Stepladders or folding steps are therefore particularly recommended for seniors. A safety ladder with comfortable handling should have some elements that give you additional support and allow you to stand safely even with tools in your hands.
Access Platforms & Push-Around Vertical Lifts (PAVs):
Low-level access platforms are easy to use, compact, and versatile in reaching a wide range of heights. They increase productivity and often require only one operator. Replacing ladders with low-level access platforms can lead to lower injury and accident rates.
For example, if you are working near sources of electricity, a metal ladder should be rejected since aluminum is an electrical conductor. Your body can complete an electrical circuit between the electrical power source, the ladder, and then to the ground in the event of a live wire contact incident.
Both Gorilla Ladders® and Little Giant provide high-quality and durable ladders, which guarantee safety and stability when being used.
Color codes for Fiberglass Stepladders and Extension Ladders. RED, 200 lbs, ANSI Code Type III. GREEN, 225 lbs, ANSI Code Type II. BLUE, 250 lbs, ANSI Code Type I. ORANGE, 300 lbs, ANSI Code Type IA.
The base of the ladder should be placed so that it is one foot away from the building for every four feet of hight to where the ladder rests against the building. This is known as the 4 to 1 rule.
Class III Ladders are only suited to occasional light domestic tasks and are definitely not suitable for use within any commercial or trade environment. Here at Ladders-Direct.com we do not recommend Class III ladders for domestic use and would advise users to purchase at minimum a EN131 ladder or step.
In comparison to aluminum ladders, fiberglass ladders are more difficult to work with because of their weight. Setting installation difficulties aside, the high cost of fiberglass also serves as one of its major disadvantages. However, if you need a non-conductive ladder, fiberglass can be your best option.
Ladder selection
Stepladders longer than 20 feet shall not be used. For single/extension ladders: As a general rule, the highest standing level should be four rungs down from the top. Single ladders should be no longer than 30 feet, and extension ladders should be no longer than 60 feet.
Common Hazards
Reaching or leaning too far rather than moving the ladder. Placing the ladder on boxes or pallets to gain height. Climbing the ladder while carrying items. Standing on the very top step or rung when the ladder is too short for the task.
For years, Little Giant advertised that their ladders were proudly made in USA. I did a little research online and it looks like LG quietly moved most or all of their manufacturing to China sometime in the last few years. I also see that company founder Hal Wing passed away earlier this year. That is too bad.
Environmental hazards: Leaving your ladder exposed to the elements, and not in a proper storage location is a sure way to damage it. If left in the heat and sun, the fiberglass rails on your ladder could bloom, causing the fibers to lose durability.
Gorilla Ladders® Lifetime Limited Warranty
Gorilla Ladders® guarantees to replace or refund up to the purchase price paid, at its discretion, for manufacturing material and workmanship issues to the original owner for the life of the product.
Ladders with a flared base, or a base that extends farther out than typical ladders, offer extra support and stability. Extension ladders and ladders that can be adjusted have locks that ensure your safety. Ladders with slip-resistant rungs or steps help prevent accidents.
3-foot rule – When using a ladder to reach a higher level (such as a roof) the top of the ladder must reach at least 3 feet past the edge of the level and be secured from slipping. Fall Protection – When the top of a fixed ladder is 24 feet or more from the lower level on a ladder the worker must use fall protection.
Ensure any locking bars are fully engaged; the stepladder platform – if it is split or buckled, the ladder could become unstable or collapse; the steps or treads on stepladders – if they are contaminated, they could be slippery; if the fixings are loose on the steps, they could collapse.
Fiberglass ladders offer the best choice for both for long life and safety from electrical conductivity.
Since the access platform is a “collective” type of fall protection, no training is necessary. Workers can perform their tasks hands-free and comfortably on stable, level surfaces. In contrast, ladders are prone to tipping, even when used correctly.