With such a huge range of ladders available on the market, knowing what criteria to consider when choosing a ladder can be confusing. To help those facing this dilemma, ZARGES, a specialist in access and packaging, has put together three points to consider:
- Assess the purpose and duration of use
Effective safety management requires an individual risk assessment to take into account various factors before carrying out a task involving ladders. These factors include questions regarding the purpose of use and duration of the activity. For example, it makes a difference whether the task involves quickly replacing a light bulb compared to standing at great heights for hours while carrying out extensive work. If the task requires great dexterity or strength, it may make sense to use a scaffold or a platform ladder instead of a conventional ladder. Ease of setting-up and dismantling should also be considered, alongside looking for a low weight and transportable solution. - Test the durability
A quality ladder is characterised most importantly by its durability. This concerns both the design and material. For example, ladders should be built of material that can be used in workshops that might use corrosive chemicals in production, and be durable so that they can perform safely in all weather conditions for work outdoors. - Pay attention to stability and slip resistance
Environmental influences such as ice, snow and mud may strongly impair a ladder's slip resistance. Even in covered indoor areas, machine oil, water or other material can quickly lead to dangerous and slippery conditions. This is especially true when working on or in the immediate vicinity of equipment such as milling and drilling machines, where oil is used as a coolant – the risk of an accident can be mitigated with a ladder design especially tailored to the situation.
“It is important to identify the challenges and find the most suitable ladder for your needs. As far as the safety aspects of ladders are concerned, the requirements laid out in the new standard EN 131-1 and 2 set a benchmark that all responsible employers must measure themselves against," said ZARGES product manager, Simone Harrer.
ZARGES’ new R13 stepladder has already been certified and complies with the assessment criteria of the EN standard. The product is unique because both the stepladder’s treads and its platform are fitted with a surface with the highest anti-slip rating (R13). The user-friendly aluminium design is both light and sturdy. The R13 stepladder also features a platform measuring 300 mm by 250 mm, providing more comfort during prolonged standing compared to previous models.
More information on ZARGES products can be found at: www.zarges.com/uk
Further information on the R13:
- 80 mm-deep treads with profiled R13 surface as well as perforation for draining liquids
- Maximum working height thanks to 280 mm-high first tread
- Platform: 300 mm x 250 mm
- Aluminium storage tray
- Wear-resistant anodised stiles
- Maximum capacity: 150 kg
About ZARGES GmbH
ZARGES GmbH, based in Weilheim in Upper Bavaria, and Milton Keynes in the UK, is a global player with a workforce of approximately 800 and 3 production sites in Europe. Innovative technologies and established experience with high-quality aluminium make ZARGES a leading company in the three major business sectors: Access – Packaging, Transportation, Storage – Special Construction. ZARGES products combine the multiple benefits of the light metal material aluminium such as high stability with low weight, corrosion resistance and flexibility of use. ZARGES has the right product for every need and can also offer customised solutions. Regardless of whether they are from the service, retail, skilled trades or business sector or are private individuals: our customers value ZARGES as a reliable partner and benefit from the quality, expertise and comprehensive service that they enjoy for many years after purchasing ZARGES products. More information: http://www.zarges.com/uk/
Press contact
Stephanie Chadwick
LEWIS
Millbank Tower, Millbank
London SW1P 4RS
T: +44 20 7802 2626
zargesUK@teamlewis.com