Use and Care Manual

FIBERGLASS LADDER TECHNICAL MANUAL
1
INTRODUCTION
Fiberglass ladders were developed after years of design, testing and field use as a
non-conductive tool. For the best performance and greatest life expectancy, fiberglass
ladders must be maintained and handled with greater care than wood or aluminum ladders.
This manual outlines fiberglass’ unique characteristics, test results, handling
procedures, maintenance, and recommended modes of use.
While the test data is of greatest interest to the technically minded, it is important that all
users understand the nature of fiberglass ladders and the proper maintenance procedures.
Recommendations for specialized use, maintenance, storage, transport, or other needs are avail-
able from Werner Co. upon request.
TABLE OF CONTENTS PAGE NO.
The Effects of Weathering on
Fiberglass Reinforced Plastic (FRP) ladders 2
Factors Affecting the Service Life of FRP Ladders 3
Corrosion Resistance Guide for Fiberglass 5
Recommended Coating Methods
and Materials for Fiberglass Ladders 5
Independent Electrical Laboratory Tests 7
Electrical Tests 7
Special Electrical Tests 8
Flammability Tests 8
Environmental Temperature Load Testing 9
Miscellaneous Structural
Tests on Fiberglass Ladders 10
ANSI A14.5 and A14.10 Fiberglass Ladder Standards
(Selected Sections Abstracted from A14.5) 10
a. Physical Properties (Typical)
b. Accelerated Weathering Test Procedures
c. Electrical Properties
ANSI A14.5 Section on Care,
Use, and Quality Control of
Reinforced Plastic Ladders 13