Ladders are great: quick to install, easy to climb, and very safe if used correctly.
(Read How to climb ladders safely)
But... a ladder isn't the right tool for every job. In some cases, you'll be able to work more safely and efficiently using scaffolding to reach the required height instead of a stepladder.
If you need to carry out any work at height and you're not sure whether a ladder or scaffolding is better suited to your needs, read on...
When should I use a ladder?
Ladders are great for:
Low risk situations
Jobs that won't take longer than 30 minutes
Environments where the ladder will be level and stable while in use
It's important to carry out a risk assessment before deciding to use a ladder. Make sure you can secure the ladder, and if you're likely to be working for more than half an hour, consider using an alternative access method.
When should I use a scaffold tower?
Our scaffolding towers are ideal for situations where the safe use of a ladder would be difficult. Erecting scaffolding takes longer than installing a ladder, but it reduces the risk of falling from a height and suffering injury.
IT'S WORTH IT!!
Consider using a scaffold tower instead of a ladder if:
You need to work at height for more than 30 minutes
You need greater freedom of movement while working at height
You cannot secure/stabilize your ladder
A scaffold platform allows you to move around more while working, whereas a ladder would need to be repositioned if you're working in a large area. Also, if you're doing intricate work that requires the use of both hands, a scaffold tower might be preferable (since you're supposed to maintain three points of contact with a ladder at all times).
Whether you need a ladder or a scaffolding tower, we're sure you'll find a suitable solution here at Almuco. Please don't hesitate to contact us if you don't find what you're looking for.