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Extension ladders consist of a traditional ladder and one or two additional sliding sections, called extensions. These can be extended to increase the height of the ladder, and then secured in place with locking clips to provide stable equipment ideally suited to the job at hand.
This makes them a particularly flexible option for users who need to perform a range of jobs at different heights, saving time, effort and money by eliminating the need for multiple ladders. For users working alone, only one piece of equipment needs to be transported and erected.
Extension ladders are useful for work in high places, such as clearing drains, cleaning or decorating upper-level features or exterior maintenance work.
Before purchasing an Extension Ladder, there are a few things to consider to ensure you get your money’s worth. Since quality usually means safety, these should not be overlooked, especially when working alone.
Ladder Material – Aluminium is always the best choice for extension ladders. It is lightweight, hard-wearing and not prone to corrosion or rusting like other materials, making it the perfect choice for outdoor work. Fiberglass Extension Ladders are brittle and break easily when subjected to pressure or extreme cold, and if this happens during use, the consequences can be catastrophic. Wooden ladders require regular weatherproofing and are prone to chipping and wear, making them less safe. The lightweight nature of aluminium also makes it very easy to transport and install, especially when working alone.
Cost – Since telescoping ladders can be adjusted to the desired height, only one ladder is needed instead of several of different heights. Obviously, it is always more cost effective to purchase just one unit, and once purchased, it can be used for many different projects in the future.
Certification – Not all suppliers disclose complete safety information about their products. It is always worth checking that your telescopic ladder has the EN 131 kite mark, or in the case of telescopic ladders, the newer EN 131-6 standard that is specific to these models. This ensures that the ladder has been rigorously tested to meet UK and EU safety standards and provides maximum user safety when used correctly.
Size – always ensure that the ladder is the correct height for the job at hand. When fully extended, a telescopic ladder should always have at least two rungs overlapping between sections to prevent bending in the middle and subsequent collapse, and never work on the top two rungs of the ladder. With two- and three-step ladders available, it is not difficult to find a ladder that can be extended to the correct height without taking these risks. It is also worth checking the width of the ladder to ensure that it is as comfortable as possible to use, and consider using a ladder platform for extended periods of use.
By observing these guidelines, you can safeguard yourself while using ladders! Always take preventive measures and remain attentive to your surroundings when engaging in ladder-related tasks. As always, don’t hesitate to reach out to us by clicking the button “Contact Us” or “WhatsApp” for any inquiries.
