We use ladders a lot in the construction industry. So much so, that we tend to take them for granted and use the same ladder for different types of jobs. Many times the use of the wrong ladder increases the likelihood of injury on the job site.
A platform ladder, like the one made by Louisville in the picture above, has a slip resistant platform towards the top of the ladder to allow the user to stand for long periods of time more comfortably than on a standard ladder. An upper top rail allows the worker to lean for extra safety and comfort.
For a two man job, there’s also an option for a twin front ladder, which has a set of steps on the front and back, instead of the typical step on one side, horizontal rungs on the back side. This allows one worker to carry materials up the ladder on one side and hand them to the worker on the other side of the ladder. The thinner rungs on the opposite side of a typical ladder are not as safe or comfortable for the foot.
The Louisville platform and twin front ladders are also equipped with Lousiville’s patented “Da Boot” slip resistant boot at the base of each side of the ladder and SHOX, which allows for impact absorption. The single side platform ladders allow a load capacity of 300 pounds (Type 1A) and 375 pounds (Type 1AA), whereas the twin front ladders allow for up to 300 pounds on each side of the ladder.
While we’re on the subject, fold out ladders should never be leaned against a wall without the horizontal spacer in place while in use. OSHA regulation 1917.119(f)(5) states that “…self-supporting ladders shall not be used as single straight ladders.” Keep your eye out for improper use of ladders and do yourself and your employees a favor by choosing the right ladder for the right situation.
Louisville Platform Step Ladder ($184-$481 on Grainger) | Louisville
Louisville Twin Front Platform Step Ladder ($409-896 on Grainger) | Louisville
Last summer, Hilti announced that they had developed their first exoskeleton designed for construction tradespeople in a partnership with Ottobuck, a prosthetics, orthotics, and exoskeleton provider. Earlier this month, Hilti officially released the exoskeleton, announced more details, and published its retail price on their website.