The industrial workplace is certainly different from say, the office, and we might as well say there are more risks involved with the job. Nowadays, luckily the space is given more consideration, particularly because inventory in the form of equipment and products can easily clutter, and this in turn can lead to accidents.
Since the cost-efficient solution lies in making more use of vertical space, this in turn leads to the requirement of equipment in the form of work ladders and platforms to carry out the job safe and sound. Considering there are many options, there are more ways you can choose the adequate ones, starting from the basics: the specific task they are going to be used for.
Taking this as the selecting aspect, you could make the purchase choosing the right style of ladders and platforms. A simple mistake of not taking the climbing limitations seriously can cause serious injuries, so you have to take this consideration carefully. Perhaps after all you need twin steps, or scaffolding.
In addition, the task you intend to use them for can also help you decide the height (remember, it depends on the person who uses them too!), the size, as well as whether or not you require a platform.
If you do need a platform, then you have to make a choice between width, or something more secure, like a safety cage if the task is done using a forklift in which case additional protection might be needed, like the use of helmets and full body harnesses.
Other considerations include the maximum safe load capacity the work ladders were designed for (i.e. the duty rating), if they have additional features or not, and most importantly, are they designed in accordance with the Australian safety standards, and do they come with load test certificates. Safety isn’t something that should be taken lightly!
And then, the materials. Though there is a variety of materials, from aluminium and steel, to fibreglass, polypropylene reinforced platforms and mesh roofs, your choice would depend on some factors, such as how long you intend to use the ladders and how much you’re willing to invest. If you’re up for something promising durability, then heavy duty steel is the option.
In case you’re not interested in the price factor, and want to buy something that’s both durable and at the same time lightweight, then fibreglass makes the ideal. On the other hand, if it’s something cheaper you are into, look no further than aluminium.
