-How to choose aluminum ladders?
This video, produced by the Taipei Labor Inspection Office, is an animated feature titled Ladder Operation Safety. With a runtime of approximately 25 minutes, it provides detailed explanations and safety instructions for using ladders (aluminum ladders, extension ladders, step ladders, mobile ladders, platform ladders, articulated ladders, and household ladders) during work. We hope it can be widely shared with the general public, equipping more people with the knowledge and safety practices necessary for using ladders at home, in factories, offices, and business establishments.
Take a little time to watch and understand them, as gaining extra knowledge can enhance your safety. Ensuring your safety and mine is the greatest happiness for our families!
On June 26, 2015, TVBS NEWS aired a story about a cable TV technician who tragically died from electrocution while repairing a cable using an aluminum ladder. It was reported that this incident occurred due to accidental contact with an electrical source and the lack of a proper construction permit.
This unfortunate event highlights the importance of understanding the differences between aluminum and fiberglass ladders:
Aluminum Ladders:
As the name suggests, these are made of aluminum, a type of metal, often alloyed for added strength. During manufacturing, the aluminum undergoes special treatments to ensure its strength and hardness meet safety standards, making it distinct from regular aluminum materials used for windows or construction. However, since it is a type of metal, aluminum conducts electricity, a characteristic often overlooked by the general public.
Fiberglass Ladders:
Fiberglass ladders, as the name implies, are made from glass fibers. Contrary to popular belief, fiberglass is not lighter than aluminum. It consists of layers of fiberglass mats and threads interwoven together, with no metal components, making it completely non-conductive.
In terms of strength, hardness, flexibility, and stability, both types of ladders are nearly equivalent. Due to the unique non-conductive properties of fiberglass material, most people think such high-safety ladders are unnecessary for everyday use and therefore prefer aluminum ladders as their primary choice.
This preference is not entirely unreasonable, as the manufacturing process of fiberglass ladders is more complex and costly, making them less affordable for the average consumer. However, for those working long hours in electrical maintenance or related industries, choosing fiberglass ladders, such as platform ladders, extension ladders, or single ladders, is a vital step in ensuring personal safety.
It is well known that Chunghwa Telecom technicians often use yellow extension ladders, single ladders, and platform ladders. This is because Chunghwa Telecom places great emphasis on maintenance and employee safety, ensuring their workers use safe products to perform their tasks, thereby improving the quality of service for the public. These yellow ladders are made of fiberglass.
While not every industry or worker places a high emphasis on ladder safety, fiberglass ladders are common in international markets due to high labor costs. In many households, a fiberglass platform ladder is a common fixture. Even for simple tasks like changing a lightbulb, using a non-conductive fiberglass ladder is preferred for safety.
Aluminum ladders are lightweight, convenient, and affordable, making them a favorite among local consumers. However, for industries with specialized requirements, selecting the appropriate ladder material not only ensures safety but also improves efficiency and service quality. This is why CHIAO TENG HSIN ENTERPRISE CO., LTD. makes it a priority to thoroughly understand our clients’ needs and operating environments. Providing the right and safe product is an integral part of our professional service.
The variation is due to the different way in which the values for safe working are expressed. In the British Standard it is "Duty rating". These have been arrived at by taking into account the general conditions and probable frequency of use for each type.
The European Standard uses "Maximum static vertical load". To help clarify this, we have given both sets of figures. British Standard stepladders to BS 2037 (Aluminum) or BS 1129 (Wood) or BS 7377(Step-stools).
Class 1 (Industrial) - Heavy Industrial Use Duty rating 130kg - Maximum vertical static load 175kg.
BS/EN 131 (Previous Class 2) - Light Trade Use Duty rating 115kg - Maximum vertical staticload 150kg.
Class 3 (Domestic) - Domestic DIY Use Duty rating 95kg - Maximum vertical static load 125kg.
Class 1 (Industrial) - Heavy Industrial Use Duty rating 130kg - Maximum vertical static load 175kg.
BS/EN 131 (Previous Class 2) - Light Trade Use Duty rating 115kg - Maximum vertical static load 150kg.
Class 3 (Domestic) - Domestic DIY Use Duty rating 95kg - Maximum vertical static load 125kg.
It is important that you choose the ladders that best fit your needs. If you are a builder or tradesman buying a Class 3 ladder is not advisable as they are not designed to withstand the rigors of day to day trade use.
Even if you are looking for home use ladders you may want to think about buying a set that at least meet the EN 131 standard. They will be safer, last longer and probably work out more economical over the longer term New ladders are generally marked according to their safe working load. This classification however, can vary slightly in the values given, and has caused confusion.
The variation is due to the different way in which the values for safe working are expressed. In the British Standard it is "Duty rating". These have been arrived at by taking into account the general conditions and probable frequency of use for each type.
The European Standard uses "Maximum static vertical load". To help clarify this, we have given both sets of figures. British Standard stepladders to BS 2037 (Aluminum) or BS 1129 (Wood) or BS 7377(Step-stools).
Professional aluminum ladder supplier- CHIAO TENG HSIN ENTERPRISE CO., LTD.
» Choosing a safety and right ladder is not only became to your good tool, also insure your security and steady working condition.
We are real welcoming your calling if you have any concern in choose the right ladder.
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People usually are very confused in how to choose a safety and right ladder for using, follow the steps and let you find your own suitable ladder easy and quickly.
First of all, please make sure the environment where you are going to use the ladder.
Using in the house
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Using in the working area and industry environment.
.
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Please estimate your working situation and condition to decided the exactly ladder of loading capability for your request.
» Choosing a safety and right ladder is not only became to your good tool, also insure your security and steady working condition.
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Regularly clean the ladder to avoid chemical corrosion of the ladder surface. Regularly check connecting parts and apply lubricating oil when needed. |
If any part of the ladder becomes misshapen or damaged or connecting parts do not work properly, contact the manufacturer for professional repair. |
If any part of the ladder becomes misshapen or damaged or connecting parts do not work properly, contact the manufacturer for professional repair. 3 Poor environmental conditions can reduce the lifespan of a ladder. In general, ladders have a one-year lifespan for indoor use. If used continually, the metal parts will become oxidized, reducing the overall safety of the ladder. The user should exercise caution. |
Aluminum ladders can only be placed in approved locations, i.e. corridors, emergency exits, warehouse entrances. Do not store outdoors, in order to avoid damaging the ladder. |
Before using the aluminum ladder, make sure the ladder feet and the rungs are safe. If a rung is broken, do not use the ladder. |
Make sure that the ground below the ladder is smooth and that there is no water or oil which may cause slipping. |
The aluminum ladder must be completely opened. Do not place both feet on the top rung of the ladder. Adopt correct posture when using the ladder. |
If you feel the ladder is unstable, ask another person to help steady the ladder while you work. |
When moving the ladder, make sure that you do not hit any overhead objects or pipes. |
Select an aluminum ladder of the proper height. If the work to be done is at a height higher than 4m, then do no use a step ladder. Use an aluminum ladder or an extension working ladder. |
If the height of the ladder is insufficient, do not climb on a shelf or use a box or a chair instead of the ladder. |
Broken ladders must be clearly marked as such and must be repaired in a timely manner. Do not try to use tape or rope to fix temporarily. |
When using an agriculture-use tripod ladder, you must first make sure that the bottom feet are stuck in the soil. It can be climbed after it is fixed in place. Do not use it on muddy ground or on a hard surface. |
When using a ramp product, you must make sure that the placement is parallel. Do not use it on terrain with a big height difference to avoid falling when on the ramp. If there is a breakage on a ramp, please contact a professional aluminum ladder factory for handling as soon as possible. |
» Choosing a safety and right ladder is not only became to your good tool, also insure your security and steady working condition.
We are real welcoming your calling if you have any concern in choose the right ladder.
Or, please contact us from our Facebook.
https://www.facebook.com/TaiwanCTHLadder
Key Points for Consumers to Select the Correct and Safe Ladder:
- Must include detailed usage instructions and safety reminders.
- Should provide guidance on how to maintain and store the ladder.
- Must pass third-party impartial testing and inspection.
- Should carry product liability insurance.
- The full name and logo of the manufacturing company must be clearly displayed.
- Clear illustrations should inform consumers how to use the ladder safely and highlight prohibited or dangerous usage.
- The weight capacity of the ladder must be clearly indicated.
- 「ELECTROCUTION HAZARD」
「THIS LADDER CONDUCTS ELECTRICITY WATCH FOR WIRES」
Avoid using near electrical sources or high-voltage areas to prevent the risk of electric shock.
「THIS LADDER DOES NOT CONDUCT ELECTRICITY」 - This ladder is designed with non-conductive properties.
» Choosing a safety and right ladder is not only became to your good tool, also insure your security and steady working condition.
We are real welcoming your calling if you have any concern in choose the right ladder.
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Column |
Technical information and problem discussions |
author |
王書龍 摘要 |
Farewell
|
42 | Publication time |
2000/08 |
Ladders are made from different materials and in a multitude of designs to be used in a variety of circumstances. The main options are listed here.
Aluminum Ladders The aluminum alloys used in modern ladders are allow for lighter weight and greater strength and so stand up to day-to-day wear and tear well. They will dent and not chip or crack when subjected to severe impact. They do not need a protective finish as they will not dry out or weather with age or sunlight exposure. The worst that happens with age is a slow oxidizing of the surface, which is easily polished off. However, they do conduct electricity and heat with obvious drawbacks.
Fiber Glass Ladders Fiber glass ladders do not conduct electricity, as long as they are not wet. Fiber glass ladders tend to be used for electrical applications. They withstand the elements well and do not need treatments if left outside and can safely be stored near heat sources. These ladders tend to be heavier than aluminum ladders and unlike aluminum, fiber glass can crack under a heavy impact, such as dropping them onto a solid surface.
» Choosing a safety and right ladder is not only became to your good tool, also insure your security and steady working condition.
We are real welcoming your calling if you have any concern in choose the right ladder.
Or, please contact us from our Facebook.
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<Folding Ladder version>
Does your Ladder always “GAGA” when you Do need it?
Follow my steps; your Ladder will not be GAGA any more.
1.Please put the oil into the black joints before you start to use the folding ladder.
2.In order to let the oil infiltrates into the joints, please move the ladder's joints carefully.
3.After insure the joints and ladder are all in good condition, then, starting to use ladder.
4.Please storage the ladder inside after using.
We believe that “Ladder GAGA” will be left your life forever.
Try it!
Chiao Teng Hsin Ladder let your life easy and better.
» Choosing a safety and right ladder is not only became to your good tool, also insure your security and steady working condition.
We are real welcoming your calling if you have any concern in choose the right ladder.
Or, please contact us from our Facebook.
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- If the straps show signs of wear or cracks, please replace them immediately.
- The hooks must maintain a fixed level of tightness and should not be too loose. The surface of the hooks is made of rubber; if it is damaged, it must also be replaced. Please note that the internal material is metal, which poses a risk of electric shock.
- The straight poles are made of FRP material, which is fragile and prone to cracking if subjected to excessive impact. During use, it is essential to inspect for cracks every time, as this concerns both physical and mental safety. Cracks most often occur at the bends. Pay attention to the placement surface, as transportation impacts require careful inspection of potential wear at the placement site. If there are issues, stop use immediately and replace or update as necessary.
- The rope is the soul of the ladder. Its flexibility must be checked during every use. Due to exposure to wind and sunlight, the rope, made of nylon and cotton, will age over time. If it becomes tight, this is a normal sign of aging and requires replacement to prevent damage to the pulleys.
- The extension hooks secure the ladder during elevation and retraction. They have a spring mechanism, so please ensure their flexibility by applying oil frequently to prevent rust and spring aging, ensuring smooth operation.
- If the rope functions normally, the pulleys should not present issues. However, if the pulleys become loose, adjustments can be made, but if aging occurs, replacement is necessary.
- The feet covers of the ladder are the most prone to wear during use and are considered consumable items. Users should inspect for wear every time during use. If the straight poles are damaged, repairs will be difficult and may lead to premature ladder disposal.
- Users must conduct a detailed inspection of the ladder's condition daily before use.
» Choosing a safety and right ladder is not only became to your good tool, also insure your security and steady working condition.
We are real welcoming your calling if you have any concern in choose the right ladder.
Or, please contact us from our Facebook.
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The most impartment part of folding ladder is the joint. Please keep the joints are all good condition.) Please check the video fist before you using.
» Choosing a safety and right ladder is not only became to your good tool, also insure your security and steady working condition.
We are real welcoming your calling if you have any concern in choose the right ladder.
Or, please contact us from our Facebook.
https://www.facebook.com/TaiwanCTHLadder
Before using the folding ladder, please make sure the joints are all in good condition and also the ladder is in the best.
Please check the video fist before you using.
» Choosing a safety and right ladder is not only became to your good tool, also insure your security and steady working condition.
We are real welcoming your calling if you have any concern in choose the right ladder.
Or, please contact us from our Facebook.
https://www.facebook.com/TaiwanCTHLadder