Step Ladders vs Platform Ladders Which Is Suitable For Your Work?
When it comes to workplace safety and even home safety, ladders have been cited as one of the leading causes for injury. One of the major reasons so many accident occur with a ladder is simply because the wrong ladder was chosen for the job.
A step ladder may be the perfect choice for one type of job, while a platform ladder may work better for another. Here’s a quick look at the differences between step ladders and platform ladders.
The Key Difference Between a Step Ladder and a Platform Ladder
There are a few small distinctions between these two styles of ladders, but the most significant distinction is the actual platform on the platform ladder. You’ll be standing on a 3″ ladder rung with a step ladder, but a platform ladder offers considerably more foot space.
The user may stand with both feet firmly planted on a surface that is usually 12′′ x 18′′ or larger. On the other hand, users will be standing just on a step if they were using a step ladder.
The Cost
Although a platform ladder is typically less expensive than a step ladder, the additional size of a larger standing surface makes it worthwhile in certain circumstances. In many cases, the user may stand at the same height on a bigger platform as he or she can do on a ladder rung of a step ladder.
The user will be standing at the same height on the platform as they would on the second rung down on an 8-foot step ladder, when compared to a 6-foot platform ladder. Because it is against basic ladder safety guidelines to stand higher than the 2nd rung on a step ladder, it’s obvious how much greater area this provides.
A platform ladder is often a superior choice than a step ladder in many situations. Step ladders, on the other hand, are usually less expensive and may be a wonderful low-cost option. Regardless of the ladder you pick, ensure that you understand basic ladder safety before using it for any task.
Advantages of a Platform Ladder
1) More Secured – Good Balance When Locked
One more security element is that when they are opened up, the platform in fact locks the ladder in the place. This element, in addition to all the truth that they have a little broader position and are weightier, creates a good deal additional balance when upright.
2) Mechanism That Discourages Users From Leaning Them Against Walls
Another pro or advantage is that, if they are utilized as designed by their layout, they stop employees from dealing with them in leaning them against walls, because of the reality that the function platform will not fall into position except if the ladder is opened up.
3) It’s Dimension Creates a Secure Footing
Yet an additional pro is its dimension, that creates an additional secure footing for the employee.
4) Designed For Long Standing At One Specific Height
A significant advantage of the Ladder is that the platform is designed for a long standing at one specific height and is significantly simpler on the feet.
With regular step ladders, the worker has a step over the arches from the feet and may result in discomfort with extended use.
Disadvantages of a Platform Ladder
1) Heavier Option
Platform ladders are heavier and bulkier than step ladders since they increase the burden of transporting them, especially the taller ones.
2) Many Do Not Come With An Option To Hang Equipment
A platform ladder does not have any space for equipment while functioning. However, the majority of step ladders come with a large prime shelf as well as numerous screwdriver slots and holes.
Staff who are used to using this material for tools may find it a nuisance, especially because the majority of step ladders do not have any provisions. There is just a cross-brace at the top that serves as a security railing.
3) A Possible Security Hazard At Times
The platform itself might also become a security risk. Because there is no possibility for moving near to each other when standing on a typical ladder’s step, every time a worker is stationary. Workers may be tempted to manoeuvre about as a result of the area provided by the platform step.
Choosing The Right Ladder For Reach
To calculate the length of a stepladder, add the height of the ladder when opened to half its overall length. For example, if your stepladder measures 12’2″ long and 6’10” tall when open, you’ll want to use a maximum height of 8 feet and a minimum distance between rungs of 1 foot 9 inches.
Extension ladders have certain further factors to think about. Based on the same physical characteristics of the person described above, the maximum ladder length and highest standing level come into play here.
Choosing The Right Ladder For The Kind of Job You Would Be Using It For
At the end of the day, choosing the right ladder really depends on the kind of job that you will be using it for. This will influence your decision to choose a ladder with different features and attributes such as:
- Is it lightweight?
- How strong and durable must it be?
- Does it have to be weather-resistant’
- Does it need to be able to resist corrosion
- Does it need to be catered for heavy-duty handling
- Is it suitable for my daily work activities: e.g. painting, roofing, or just managing warehouse storage
If you are unsure of which type of ladder will suit your needs, consult our material handling equipment specialists today.