Use and Care Manual
FIBERGLASS LADDER TECHNICAL MANUAL
15
USE OF LADDERS
General. Restrict ladder usage to the purpose for which the ladder is designed.
Self-supporting ladders, such as stepladders and platform ladders, are not to be used as single
ladders, that is, in the closed position.
A non-self-supporting ladder, such as an extension or single ladder, needs to be erected
a minimum of one to three feet above the top support point when using for access to a roof or other
work level. Do not step on any rung above the upper support point since this could cause the ladder
to slip. Secure the ladder or have someone hold it while using it.
Pitch. Portable non-self-supporting ladders are to be erected at an angle of 75-1/2 degrees from
horizontal. Combination ladders are to be erected so that the top surface of the steps are parallel to
the surface supporting the base or bottom section. A simple rule for setting up a non-self-supporting
ladder at the proper angle is to place the base a distance from the vertical support equal to one-
fourth the effective working length of the ladder. The effective working length is the distance along
the side rails from the bottom to the top support points. A simple procedure for setting a ladder up
properly is as follows:
1. Place toes against bottom of ladder side rails.
2. Stand erect.
3. Extend arms straight out.
4. Palms of hands should touch top of rung at shoulder level.
TABLE A1 — DUTY CLASSIFICATIONS
Capable of Capable of
Supporting Supporting
Ladder Duty Rating
(pounds) Ladder Duty Rating (pounds)
Special Duty (Type IAA) 375 Medium Duty (Type II) 225
Extra Heavy Duty (Type IA) 300 Light Duty (Type III) 200
Heavy Duty (Type I) 250
Generally accepted usage/duty relationships are:
•
Special duty: for users requiring a 375-pound load capacity or for service requirements
such as industry, utilities, contractors, etc.
•
Extra heavy duty: for users requiring a 300-pound load capacity or for service requirements
such as industry, utilities, contractors, etc.
•
Heavy duty: for users requiring a 250-pound load capacity or for service requirements such
as industry, utilities, contractors, etc.
•
Medium duty: for users requiring a 225-pound load capacity or for service requirements
such as painters, offices, light maintenance use, etc.
•
Light duty: for users requiring no more than a 200-pound load capacity or for a service
requirement such as general household use.
Werner Co. recommends only extra heavy duty ladders for use with ladder jacks and scaffold planks.
Ladder Selection. Portable ladders are designed as one-man working ladders including any
material supported by the ladders. An exception is double front self-supporting ladders which are
designed to be used by two workers, one per side. The five duty ratings are shown in Table A1.
Werner Co. FRP ladders are available in Type IAA, Type IA, Type I and Type II duty ratings. Users
should give consideration to the length required, the type of loading, and service to which the ladder
will be subjected. Never overload a ladder.
Footing Support. The bottom ends of the ladder must be placed with a secure footing on a firm
level base. On firm but uneven ground, ladder levelers may be used. Safety shoes, spurs, spikes, or
similar devices of good substantial design are installed on all Werner Co. ladders. Ladders without
safety shoes, spikes, spurs, slip resistant pads or similar devices shall not be used. Do not use lad-
ders on ice, snow, or slippery surfaces, unless suitable means to prevent slipping are employed. Do
not place ladders on boxes, barrels, or other unstable bases to obtain additional height.
Top Support. The top of the straight or extension ladder shall be placed with the two rails support-
ed. A V-rung, pole lash, pole strap, or other device designed to support the ladder under load, shall be
used when using a non-self-supporting ladder against a pole. To support the top of a ladder at a window
opening, attach an
FIBERGLASS LADDER TECHNICAL MANUAL
15
CARE, USE, AND QUALITY CONTROL
OF REINFORCED PLASTIC LADDERS (Continued)
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75°