Whether you are a contractor, tradesman, builder, shopkeeper or homeowner, a step ladder is indispensable for various tasks, from hanging pictures to painting walls. These ladders are helpful for numerous industrial, domestic, or light-duty applications. Platform ladders or platform step ladders, or step ladders, are handy ladders. As the name suggests, these ladders come with a stable and safe work platform rather than a typical step for a person to work on.
While working, a platform ladder can assist you in staying balanced. That means you have additional stability when climbing a platform step ladder to access high spots or perform home repairs. These ladders provide you with extra room for all of your gear and tools. So if you are scared of climbing traditional ladders, climbing onto a platform step ladder can make elevation easier for you.
If you still need convincing, continue reading! This article further discusses why platform ladders are a great choice.
They are safer.
The first and foremost thing to note is that they are safer and more stable. People can move about the job site more easily thanks to the platform’s potential to provide a bigger working space than a traditional A-frame ladder. Additionally, the platforms of these ladders are built of steel rather than wood, which makes them more stable and less prone to topple. When ascending a ladder or working above ground level, you’ll feel safer with this added support behind you. The ladder’s broad base offers exceptional stability when working in high places. It has a continuous steel rail while it is open, ensuring maximum strength, safety, and durability.
They have a larger work area.
A-frame ladders are less safe than platform step ladders because the latter provides a more extraordinary workspace and better stability. They can be positioned at almost any angle, from vertical down to around 90°, making them much more flexible than A-frames, which can only be put up at right angles to whatever surface they’re leaning against (like a wall). This makes platforms ideal for reaching windowsills.
They are easy to store and easy to use.
These ladders are strongly recommended to be used by new climbers before they hop on to less giant step ladders. These ladders can be released and collapsed to the tiniest size possible while not in use. That means they can fit into any corner of your room or garage without occupying much space. They are also lightweight and can be easily transported from one place to another without much hassle. Further, for usage, you can position this ladder on a flat surface and get the total balance you need while working. Therefore, a platform ladder might be your ideal partner if this is your first time making any house improvements and you need the best and safest ladder to step on.
But just like every other ladder, there are some crucial safety measures you need to keep in mind. They are as follows:
- The employee should wear tucked-in rather than baggy clothing when using a platform step ladder. Slip-resistant footwear is also crucial to prevent accidents. While working, wearing sandals and flip-flops is risky.
- There are safety precautions put on every platform ladders Remember to follow the instructions when assembling the platform step ladder. Take a second person’s help if necessary when using the ladder.
- Use safety cones while working outside to prevent mishaps on sidewalks or other pedestrian areas. Avoid raising the platform step ladder’s top height by putting boxes and ladders.
- Keep your centre of gravity on the platform step ladder. Bring the mobile ladder up near the project at hand.