How to choose the right ladder for your needs

It is important to ensure you choose the ladder best suited to your needs. Our partners at Werner Ladders have put together information to assist you in choosing the correct ladder for your needs.

HEIGHT

When selecting the ladder for the job, you need to consider the height that you will be working at and the height that you can safely reach to. We recommend always choose a ladder slightly higher than you might need to avoid overreach and follow the instructions on the ladder for safe use. Our suggested safe working height is based on 1.75m as the average reach height of a person when standing on the maximum advised safe climb/standing height.

Extension Ladders

Maximum standing height is 4 rungs down from the top of an extension ladder.

Step Ladders

Maximum standing height is 3 steps (includes the top) down from the top of a swing-back step ladder.

For a platform step ladder, the maximum standing height is the platform.

Multi-purpose Ladders

Maximum standing height is 4 rungs down from the top when used in the stairwell or freestanding extension ladder position with extending ladder at the top.

WERNER SAFETY STANDARDS

Always take care to choose the correct standard of ladder for the job in hand. The Werner range of ladders that we stock all meet the new EN131 standard, where applicable, with ladders having a load capacity of 150kg. If you are going to use the ladders for commercial purposes, you must use ladders that have been tested for Professional Use with a load capacity of 150kg. However, if you are going to use ladders at a private dwelling for non-commercial purposes, you can use ladder certified for Non-Professional Use.

MATERIALS

It’s important to consider what material your ladder is made from. Werner offers ladders made from both fiberglass and aluminium. Each material offers unique benefits suited to specific conditions, applications, or preferences.

Fiberglass -Safety and durability

Non-conductive for working near electricity

Designed and tested for extreme temperatures

Won’t dent, shatter, rust or corrode

High visibility colour

Aluminium – Lightweight and Strong

Not for use near electricity

Designed and tested for extreme durability

Won’t dent, shatter, rust or corrode

Easy to transport and store

UNIQUE NEEDS AND PRODUCT DESIGN

When choosing a ladder, it is also important to consider the environment or purposes you will be using a ladder for. Do you for instance, do you need access on a staircase? Do you need to use the ladder in an environment where you need protection from electrical sources? Do you need a ladder that can fulfil multiple configurations? Do you need a ladder that is easily transported as you are on the go from job to job? Do you need a lighter weight ladder to carry around to prevent physical strain and will that ladder be able to support your weight and the tools you use?

These are all considerations that will help determine the correct ladder for you. If you and your team need more information on which Werner ladders are the right fit for your purposes, you can reach out to our dedicated sales team for advice atsales@totalsource.ie