HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT LADDER FOR THE JOB?

When it comes to choosing the right ladder for your worksite, the selection process can be tedious. SMB Trading helps you find the best ladder for the job by understanding your business requirements and workplace environment. Your employees may take ladders for granted, because they are common tools in every worksite. But as a responsible building owner or contractor, you need to know more about the equipment you provide them.

Step, extension and multi-purpose ladders are the most common types of ladders used for various work. In some cases, scaffolds and pump jacks are also used. Your employees need the right ladder to safely complete tasks without harm or fatal injury.

The workplace environment is your primary consideration when it comes to choosing the ladder. Ladders are built using either aluminium, fibreglass and steel. The usability of the ladder depends on the material as well. For instance, you can’t provide your worker with an aluminium ladder in Dubai, if the worksite has active electrical sources. On the other hand, if there are no electrical power sources in your work area, then an aluminium ladder is the preferred ladder type, because they are more lightweight compared to fibreglass.

Let’s have a detailed look at the other factors to consider when choosing the right ladder.

Ladder Type

Different ladders are designed to serve different kinds of work. Selecting the right ladder type is the first step in getting the work done safely. Some common types of ladders used are step ladders, platform ladders, extension ladders and leaning step ladders. There are also attic ladders, step stools, rolling ladders as well as accessories that make your ladder do more.

Step ladders in the UAE have changed over time. Today’s ladders have a fixed length and allow for free-standing use for a variety of jobs. Extension ladders can be stored easily with the added provision for adjusting the height as needed. Telescopic ladders in Dubai are a much better version of extension ladders as they occupy even lesser storage space. They are made with aluminium which significantly reduces its weight, making them more portable. The multipurpose ladder employs locking hinge joints. It is designed as an extension ladder that can serve as a step ladder with even or uneven side lengths, a single-section ladder, or a scaffolding structure.

Ladder Height

Four steps down from the top is the safest level of height in an extension ladder. A person standing higher may lose their balance and fall. A person’s maximum safe reaching height is approximately 4 feet higher than the height of the ladder. There are several guidelines that need to be considered when choosing the height of your ladder. Speaking with your employees and understanding their workplace requirements can help you decide on the ladder height they need. SMB Trading has in-house safety equipment experts who can guide you in selecting a ladder with the right height.

Ladder Weight

Every ladder is constructed to hold the maximum amount of weight which is the sum total of an average human weight, tools he is carrying and his PPE. Ladders are duty rated according to their weight and type. There are commonly 5 basic grades, Type III (200 lbs. load limit) and Type II (225 lbs. load limit) are recommended for lightweight works. Type I (250 lbs. load limit) are used widely in most worksites and Type IA and IAA are specially constructed for maximum performance and designed for professional use.

For easy reference, see the table below:

Ladder Material

Ladders are constructed for their usability, not for aesthetics. Ladder materials should be durable and strong, so that the environment doesn’t affect the construction of the ladder. Some work environments may use plenty of chemicals, so a thorough understanding of ladder materials and their durability is necessary to prevent injuries.

Maneuverability

The bigger the ladder, the bulkier it is to carry. Ladders need storage space and need to be easily transported within the site and between sites. The compact extension ladder goes a long way to improving maneuverability and ease of storage. They have three overlapping extensions, unlike the standard 16-footer, making them easier to move around and transport. 

Choosing the right ladder boils down to your job requirements. Otherwise, you’ll end up buying a ladder with features you’ll never use and overspend. Choose SMB Trading for safety equipment, PPE and different types of ladders in Dubai. SMB Trading is one of the most trusted authorized dealers of fall protection systems and ladders in the UAE.

We offer you a wide range of ladders for various uses. Our in-house experts will listen to your requirements, understand your worksite and advise the best ladder in Dubai that suits your budget.