Proper Ladder Storage
Proper ladder storage is an important part of ensuring user safety and can contribute to many years of successful use. All aspects of storage--securing; supporting; transporting; and maintaining metal, wood and fiberglass ladders--must be considered. Does this Spark an idea?
Best Practices
Whether your ladder is made of metal, wood or fiberglass, always store it where it can be reached without causing an accident. Make sure to secure the ladder to its storage place, using chains, ropes, clips or the like. Ladders should be placed horizontally on racks, but only if sufficient support exists; otherwise the side rails can sag. A ladder with sagging rails cannot be used safely.
Remember that a ladder is a tool and an important piece of safety equipment. Do not use it like a chair by sitting on the side rails. Never store material on your ladder, and protect it from contamination by dust, dirt and other debris. Return it to a safe, secure storage area protected from the weather after use. Should your ladder be exposed to slippery substances like grease or oil, remove the slickness promptly using steam or industrial-strength cleaning solvents.
Good storage practices apply both in the shop and on the road. When transporting your ladder, check to ensure it is both properly secured and sufficiently padded with soft material. Vibrations and road bumps easily cause damage. Make sure enough support points are in place to prevent the sagging of your ladder's side rails.
Properly storing and moving your ladder helps keep it in good condition. Minor maintenance, such as bolt tightening and hinge lubrication, is also beneficial and easily done by the average person. Major repairs must be performed by qualified mechanics or your ladder's manufacturer.
Metal Ladders
In addition to the guidelines listed previously, metal ladders have a couple of special requirements. Metal ladders exposed to any kind of fire or powerful chemicals are no longer safe and should not be used. Rustproofing is also recommended for metal ladders exposed often to water or rain.
Wood Ladders
Treat wood ladders used outside to help stop weather damage. Sealants, such as linseed oil, provide either a transparent penetrating preservative or a clear finish. Paint is not an appropriate weather sealer; it can make cracks in the wood hard to see or hide them altogether. Keep wood ladders away from moisture and high heat, and always store them in well-ventilated places.
Fiberglass Ladders
Fiberglass ladders should not be stored in locations exposed to sunlight or other sources of ultraviolet light. Ultraviolet light can cause the fiberglass to break down, compromising ladder safety. As with ladders made of metal, fiberglass ladders exposed to fire or strong chemicals are unsafe and should be discarded.
Tags: your ladder, ladders exposed, side rails, always store, ladder storage
