Webster’s dictionary would define a ladder as an inclined or vertical set of rungs/steps used to elevate oneself onto a higher or lower platform.
Since the building of the first ladder many moons ago, they have become very commonplace, to the extent that few homes exist without one.
However, the question begs- what type of ladder should you choose? A giant one? A little one? Or perhaps a little giant ladder.
The decision might seem quite simple, but mind you- it is not silly.
Here in the outback, a ladder’s functionality must be as versatile as it can get.
Let’s take a look at the different kinds of ladders and where one can use them.
Primary Classification:
The EU and the UK have developed a system of classifying ladders into categories called “classes” that have been adopted throughout the world, with the three of them being Class 1, Class EN131, and Class III.
Of these, Class III are the ones that are rated for household use, and they are usually painted in red at specific spots to indicate their loading capacity, typically no more than 125kg.
Utility
While most ladders used for extra height gain purposes have rungs over steps, domestic ladders use steps as they offer a better footing. These are recommended for most households as individuals using them may not always be a spry chicken.
This is when you realise there are a lot of problems that need to be taken into account for.
While at home, it is not necessary that people around you would know the safety standards and practices that are to be followed while using a ladder, besides the ones that measure up behind common sense at any rate.
It must be operable by a single person. Most ladders need someone holding down the structure to ensure it doesn’t slip off and cause the person atop it to fall.
This is why stepladders you buy at home need to be counterbalanced with a support on the opposing surface so that the ladder is already at equilibrium before we even begin climbing on it.
It must be easy to use. It shouldn’t have complex features or lock mechanisms in place that will cause confusion to the user and, in worse scenarios, even lead to an accident to the user.
It must have a compact storage capability. Regardless of how big your home is, it is not preferred to keep such structures out in the open. Hence it must be foldable and easy to stow away.
It must last long. Who would want to invest money into a product that doesn’t see it through to the end of a year? A well-built and neatly-designed ladder should ideally last for a good 10 years, if not 15-20. Considering all of its safe loading practices are followed, the product will certainly last its expected lifespan.
Choosing from the wide variety of available ladders might seem like a bit of a chore at first, but after looking at the desired traits and seeing as to what we really want, a little giant ladder, it is easy to decide and finalise with what we want to use.
Be it a cosy apartment space in Sydney or a sprawling farmland in Brisbane, an easy to use stepladder is a must-have.
