September 12, 2009

HOW TO SAFELY USE STEP LADDERS IN THE UK

Step Ladders

In almost everybody’s household, numerous tasks require the use of a ladder. Step ladders are a convenient UK accessory able to handle assorted tasks in UK residences. They are virtually indispensable in this do-it-yourself era.

Sort of Step Ladders You Can Find

You may find step ladders in three different forms—wood, aluminium, and fibreglass. Wooden step ladders are heavier than the other types and are the oldest of the three. To provide extra support, metal pieces can be found on wooden ladders. The fibreglass step ladder is actually a combination aluminium and fibreglass in which the steps are made of aluminium while the side runner supports are composed of fibreglass. Aluminium step ladders are the only of the three not made up of other components—they are cheap but less rugged than the others.

Step Ladders

Positioning Both the Step Ladder and Yourself

Lots of people think they understand the basics of using a step ladder, but believe it or not, there’s a correct way and an incorrect way to use it. The last thing you want is the ladder on top of you instead of the other way around.

Where to place the ladder—while placing the step ladder, ensure that it is on a surface that is dry, flat, and solid. Ladders resting on soft ground (or non-level ground) could create a situation where your own weight throws you off the ladder once you’re on it. Placing it on an unstable area can cause it to move around underneath you. Also, the legs of a step ladder aren’t intended for being leaned up against the house and shouldn’t be used this way. Remember as well to position the ladder right in front of the space you’ll work within.

Step Ladders

Positioning Yourself—it’s so important to not stand so that you could fall off the ladder. Make sure not to get up on the top step. Only one person should be on the ladder at a time. Keep a firm grip on the sides of the ladder. Your legs won’t be as steady once you stay on the ladder beyond thirty minutes. If this happens, slowly climb down and give them time to rest.

Step ladders can be very useful and helpful part of any UK resident’s arsenal, and as long as safety is a top priority, everything should go great.

If you really think about the sort of chores you need to do around your home or apartment, you're likely to realise that you need both a step stool and a step ladder. Step stools are great for getting things down from high cupboards, dusting the top of the fridge and hanging pictures in rooms with normal ceiling heights. Choose a step stool that's about 3 feet (or less) high with rubber treads on the broad steps. If you need to reach higher than dusting the chandelier, a folding step ladder is in order. A step ladder is also essential if you'll be painting walls and ceilings or installing or maintaining items like overhead light fixtures. Once you have a wood, fibreglass or aluminium step ladder, it's certain that you'll find many ways to use it, from hanging curtains and draperies to installing window blinds and shades. Step ladders are also useful outdoors for washing windows on lower floors, painting trim or changing light bulbs in outdoor fixtures.

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