Ladders And Scaffolds
When using ladders or scaffolds, it's important to take safety into consideration. Ladders are best used for limited jobs like getting up on the roof or for simple repairs. For extended jobs off the ground, scaffolds are a better choice.Ladders
Make sure your ladder matches the job at hand. Most household and light industrial ladders are wood or aluminum, though fibreglass models are now available. If you want to be sure about what you're getting, look for the Canadian Standards Association (CSA) label certifying the ladder by grade: Type I for construction work; Type II for farm/trades; Type III for household use. If you're looking for a ladder for outside work, we strongly suggest you buy the more expensive and stable Type II.
The standard is voluntary and you won't find too many certified wooden ladders. Wooden ladders are intrinsically more rigid than aluminum ladders but they're prone to weathering.
Step ladders, with their strong triangular shapes, are safer than extension ladders in most cases. Unfortunately, that very triangle shape prevents you from getting in close to vertical surfaces. Most home owners opt for the more versatile extension ladder for outdoor work, especially at heights over two metres (m).
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December 4, 2008