Choosing a Little Giant Ladder System

In order to make a safe ladder choice, duty rating, ladder length and the material from which the ladder is constructed are the most important elements.

Ladders are designed to support one person plus the materials and tools for the job. In order to assist you in making a safe choice, the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) has defined tests that determine the duty rating, type, and maximum working load (which includes tools, planks, materials as well as the user) for each ladder.

When considering what length of ladder is best for you, please keep in mind that the ladder length and the maximum working length (extension ladders) or highest standing level (stepladders) are not the same. The following chart will be helpful in assisting you to make a safe choice:

Portable ladders are constructed primarily from three materials: wood, aluminum, or fiberglass. Matching the job and working environment with the proper ladder material is the third component in making the safest ladder choice. For example, if you will be working with or around electricity, it is important to select a non-conductive material such as wood or fiberglass.

Familiarize yourself with the ladder's load capacity. Light-duty ladders are designed to hold 200 lbs.; medium-duty ladders hold 225 lbs.; heavy-duty ladders hold up to 250 lbs.; and extra-heavy-duty ladders hold weights of up to 300 lbs.

Use a stepladder for most household purposes. This type of ladder is available in heights of 4 to 16 feet and has a hand foldout shelf on the side opposite the rungs.

Use an extension ladder outdoors to reach high branches or the roof. These are made to reach 20 to 40 feet.

Try an articulated or multipurpose ladder for a variety of uses. This aluminum alloy ladder can be a stepladder or straight ladder or act as a scaffold, and comes in lengths of 12 to 16 feet.

Some important factors when considering ladder material properties are:

DUTY RATING TYPE WORKING LOAD Extra Heavy Duty, Industrial 1A 300 Lbs. Heavy Duty, Industrial 1 250 Lbs. Medium Duty, Commercial 1AA 225 Lbs. Light Duty, Household 1AAA 200 Lbs. WOOD LADDERS: Least expensive. Not conductive when clean and dry. Heavier weight provides extra stability. ALUMINUM LADDERS: Weather resistant. Durable and lightweight. Material is conductive. FIBERGLASS LADDERS: Weather resistant. Not conductive when clean and dry.