Step Ladders go through a number of stages during their lifespan. Even though this is normal, it's important to keep an eye on your ladder's stability and don't let it get out of hand when it's been through a lot of use.
LADDER SIGNS OF WEAKENING
The bottom line is that these are some things to keep in mind when inspecting your ladders, regardless of whether you are a professional or a do-it-yourselfer. It's likely that the professionals have already eliminated weak and damaged ladders; DIYers might not, though.
FIBERGLASS BLOOM
Fiberglass ladders' non-conductive rails make work safer—something electricians and other professionals who deal with electrical materials always prioritize. If you take good care of your fiberglass ladder, it can last a very long time; However, if it is used improperly or excessively, its lifespan may be reduced. Before climbing your ladder, always check for signs of damage, like fiberglass bloom.
Fiberglass bloom can occur on any old fiberglass surface, including your ladder and other old fiberglass surfaces. The fine fibers in fiberglass break down when it is used too much, heated, or exposed to the sun. It causes discomfort, pain, and itchiness when touched with naked skin.
Because it can cause splinters, fiberglass bloom isn't just a problem if you work near electricity; A fiberglass ladder can also become conductive if it gets wet. It is evident that those who deal with electricity face a significant problem. If you use a fiberglass bloom ladder and work near electricity, you should get rid of it as soon as possible.
CRACKS
Cracks are another issue to consider when working with Heavy Duty Step Ladders. On the other hand, when hit, fiberglass ladders are more likely to crack, while aluminum ladders are more likely to dent. To avoid cracks, do not throw the ladder out of a truck or let it fall. If you notice rail cracks, stop using the ladder.
RAILS WITH DENTS OR DEFORMATIONS
Despite the fact that some parts of a ladder, like the rungs, can be replaced, others, like the rails on your ladder, cannot. When ladder rails are dented, cracked, or deformed, the ladder's structural integrity is put at risk, making it unsafe to use. Dented, bent or deformed ladder rails must be removed as soon as possible because they pose a risk.
WORN TREAD
Because it is essential to have the appropriate treads on your ladder, you might be curious about their current location. Typically, treads can be found on your ladder's feet and rungs. If the rungs or the treads on the feet have become excessively worn, they must be replaced. Despite the laborious process, if you take the time to replace those ladder parts, you will always be safe.
NEXT STEPS
When you discover that your Platform Step Ladders need to be retired or taken off a construction site, the next steps are simple. Your manager should be notified, and the ladder should be marked so that no one else can use it because it has been deemed unsafe. DIY customers might find the process more challenging. You run the risk of someone using a dangerous ladder if you dispose of it or transport it to a landfill. Make a ladder unusable if you are unable to destroy it. If you are unable to destroy it, seek assistance from a nearby business. It is essential to destroy a damaged ladder by cutting its rungs or dismantling it in other ways.
WANT TO KNOW MORE?
If you require assistance maintaining the stability and safety of your ladder, the customer experience team at Little Giant is happy to assist you. We may be able to direct you to a resource that can assist you in getting rid of a broken ladder.
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