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The Aluminum Mobile Platform Ladder 300 lb Rated Louisville Ladder AP5000 Series |
Which ladder is right for your job?
You’ll save time and energy and reduce your risk of injury if you know how to select the correct ladder for the job. Key factors to consider are type and style of ladder, ladder length, duty rating, and the material from which the ladder is constructed.
Step Ladders & Platform Ladders
Step ladders, and their close cousins, platform ladders, are the most commonly used ladder in the industry. In contrast to extension ladders, step ladders and platform ladders are self-supportable, which means they do not need to be leaned against any type of support to be used. As such, they may be used in the middle of the room, underneath a tree for trimming or a variety of other locations where support for an extension ladder is an issue. There are two major varieties of step ladders; the first is a simple front step ladder. On the front step ladder you will find rungs on one side of the ladder and the other side is designed only for support and is not to be climbed on. The more popular variety is the twin step ladder which provides rungs on either side of the ladder allowing you to climb up whichever side is more convenient and allows you and a friend to climb the ladder simultaneously.
Step Ladder Safety
- Never use the top or top step of a stepladder as a step without the secure addition of a professional safety cage on a compatibly designed step ladder
- Never use cross bracing on the rear section of step ladders for climbing unless the ladders are designed and provided with steps for climbing on both front and rear sections
- Metal spreader or locking devices must be provided on stepladders to hold the front and back sections in an open position when ladders are being used
Step Ladder Height Guide
LADDER SIZE
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*HIGHEST STANDING LEVEL (APPROX)
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MAXIMUM REACH
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4’
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1’ 11”
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8’ 6”
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5’
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2’ 10”
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9’ 5”
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6’
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3’ 9”
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10’ 4”
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8’
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5’ 8”
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12’ 3”
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10’
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7’ 7”
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14’ 2”
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12’
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9’ 6”
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16’ 1”
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*Based on a 5’7” user with a 12” reach
Platform Ladders
A platform ladder is a front step ladder with a platform as its top step. A top rail guard is usually around two feet higher than the platform to provide safety while you are working. Platform ladders provide that higher level of comfort you look for while standing on a ladder for any amount of time. You won’t be killing the bottom of your feet or your shins when you stand on the platform. This ladder allows you to work on any project that requires you to use two hands as safely as if you were on the ground itself. Being able to rotate around and work in which ever direction you need helps you to work safer and faster.
Good, sturdy step ladders and platform ladders are indispensable tools for many service trade professionals, like painters, builders and remodelers, firefighters, and many many more. If you’re considering stepping up the quality of your equipment, or maybe it’s simply time to replace your old, well-worn favorites, Creech Ladder has everything you need to succeed.
Stay tuned for more useful industrial ladder types in our next post. To learn more about ladders, scaffolding, and a wide array of service industry equipment available for your vehicles and more, check out Creech Ladder. We're your one-stop-shop for accessories that improve safety, stability and usability. You can call us direct at 615.242.8601, or check out our website for special offers and updates at: http://web.vanandtruckequipmenttn.com/home/.
And remember, if it's out of reach, call the folks at Creech!
