How to select the best ladders for your industry

Ladders provide a convenient way of performing work at height and you'd think that after the years they've been in use that the relevant safety issues would be pretty well entrenched in people's minds. But if the number of people injured or killed each year while using portable ladders is any indication it's anything but the case. The most common injuries occur when people fall they can range from minor bruising and embarrassment to disablement and even death - even from what would normally be considered low heights. So let's have a brief look at some of the things you can do to prevent yourself being hurt the next time you use a portable ladder.

There are basically two types of portable ladder commonly used - step ladder or "leaning" ladders with the latter being either a single or extending form. Where you intend using the ladder will determine what type is the best. It would be probably impossible to use anything but a step ladder to change a light globe in the middle of a room whereas either type of ladder could be used to change the light globe on a wall mounted light. The next factor to consider is the height of where you want to access. If the ladders Perth are too short you won't be able to reach the job safely and if it's to long you may not be able to erect it within the space you're working.

Finally, if you're intending to do electrical work DO NOT use a metal ladder - you face enough risks working with electricity without adding the risk of working above ground on a conductive ladder.

• Selecting the right ladder for the job is the first step (pun unintended) in making sure you're not injured when doing the job.
• Step ladders are more stable than leaning ladders and can be safely used in a standalone mode by following these instructions.
• Inspect the ladder to make sure the rungs, side rails and anti-slip feet are in good condition, clean and not loose (or even missing).
• Make sure the soles of your footwear are clean and in good condition.
• Fully extend both sides of the ladder and make sure the spreader bars are locked in the open position to prevent the ladder collapsing on itself.
• Erect the ladder on a level, firm surface - use timber or similar pads to adjust surface level or provide support on unstable ground making sure both ladder feet are fully supported by a single pad.

Michael Joseph is a marketing manager for laddersperth.com.au and he is working since couple of years.