In principal, the answer is yes; no matter what the style or design they all serve the same purpose – to allow somebody to climb from one level to another. However, there’s more to ladders than you might at first think.
There are many different types, designs and regulations to consider on site, each one solving a different problem. Here are a few things you should think about when looking to install an access ladder:
Initial considerations
Should you use:
- GRP (where conductivity may be an issue)
- Aluminium (weight and resistance to weathering)
- Steel (where cost is the only consideration)
- Stainless steel (in aggressive atmospheres)
- High alloyed grades of austenitic stainless steel (used in swimming pools or areas with high risk of stress crack corrosion)
What next?
- How high are you climbing (different standards)
- Do you need regular or intermittent access (design changes)
- What about carrying or moving materials (additional lifting jib)
- Personnel safety (fall back cage, running safety line)
- Unauthorised access (security cage lockable panel, high reach starting point)
Types of ladder
- Portable
- Portable with locating hooks to set the correct angle & creating high level “tie off”
- Portable (as above) providing access to higher level fixed ladder
- Fixed vertical low level no safety cage
- Fixed vertical 2.5m to 6.0m with safety cage or harness line
- Fixed vertical over 6.0m with intermediate resting platform
These variations in design allow a site specific solution to be produced which, when combined with platforms, edge protection and bridging sections,will resolve most access problems.
For detailed advice please call 01635 244100 or email sales@ecex.co.uk .
You can also view some interesting case studies at http://www.ecex.co.uk/fls.asp
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