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Be sure to choose a ladder that complies with Australian Standards AS/NZS 1892.3:1996. AS/NZS compliant ladders are tested to meet stringent strength and durability criteria.
Be sure to exercise safety and common sense when using your ladder.
Special attention should be given to:-
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Pitch angle:- Non self supporting ladders should be no more than 1.5m out from the base of the wall. It is recommended that a 4:1 pitch ratio should be observed at all times.
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Footing:- Ensure a solid and safe footing is established before attempting to climb your ladder. Failure to do so could result in serious injury.
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Top of the ladder:- The top of the ladder should be firmly against a solid surface. Do not place the top of your non self supporting ladder against a window or brittle surface.
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Height above landing:- Your ladder should be no less than one metre above the area you are attempting to gain access to. The ladder should also be firmly secured to ensure horizontal and vertical movement is eliminated.
Climbing and working from your ladder
Ensure you are facing the ladder so that both hands are free to grip the ladder securely at any time if need be. Keep your ladder close to your work zone - never over reach when attempting to work from a ladder, serious injury may occur. Only one person should be on the ladder at a time, unless in the case of emergency. If it is absolutely necessary for two people to be on the ladder at once, make sure the 4:1 pitch ratio is strictly observed. A 3rd person stabilizing the ladder in this instance is recommended.
Maintenance
Ladders should be maintained and regularly inspected for defects. Cracked, broken or damaged ladders should never be used.
A polyurethane or acrylic lacquer that coats the fibreglass rails of your ladder may deteriorate in time. High humidity, solar radiation (UV) and general wear and tear can cause the protective coating to break down exposing the fibreglass substrate which can cause skin irritation. Should this occur, the rails should be cleaned thoroughly with detergent and then, once completely dried, the rails should be coated in a polyurethane or acrylic lacquer once again. The will encapsulate the exposed fibres and eliminate further irritation. (The polyurethane or acrylic lacquer can be purchased from a general hardware store)
Close inspection should be carried out on the ladder before each use. If the ladder tips over or is impacted adversely, if the ladder is exposed to excessive heat or if the ladder is exposed to corrosive substances of any kind DO NOT USE IT! Damaged ladders should never be used.
Storage
Ladder should be:-
Stored under cover
Stored on protective supporting racks
Kept clean and free of dirt and contaminants
Inspected regularly for defects
Replaced if badly or irreparably damaged
Make it your business to understand and correctly use your ladder. Ladders are indispensable devices and will provide you with years of faithful service if treated correctly. Happy Climbing!!
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