Use and Care Manual
FIBERGLASS LADDER TECHNICAL MANUAL
13
N
OTE: The ac dielectric strength test is employed as a means of evaluating other
characteristics of the composite.
7.10.2 DC Current Leakage. The dc current leakage shall not exceed 90 microamperes when a
voltage of 90 kilovolts is applied to electrodes spaced 10 inches apart on a length of rail composite
conditioned for 72 hours at 72°F and 60% relative humidity as follows:
(1) Affix a continuous length of metallic conductive tape completely around the specimen's
surface at the two locations spaced 10 inches apart.
(2) Connect the tape to the power source.
(3) Slowly raise the voltage to the 90 kilovolt level and measure leakage current.
(4) If flashover occurs at a voltage lower than 90 kilovolts, report the voltage and flashover
current level.
NOTE: The dc current leakage is affected by the surface condition, the presence of
metallic or other electrical conductive materials, and even the adhesives used in labels.
FIBERGLASS LADDER TECHNICAL MANUAL
13
ANSI A14.5 FIBERGLASS LADDER STANDARD
(SELECTED SECTIONS ABSTRACTED FROM A14.5, Continued)
GENERAL
To obtain maximum serviceability and safety and to eliminate unnecessary damage to equip-
ment, good safe practices in the use and care of ladder equipment must be employed
by the users.
While fiberglass ladders are designed for extended service, it may be necessary to perform additional
periodic care in order to assure their continued use.
NOTE: The guidelines discussed do not constitute every possible proper or improper
procedure for the care and use of ladders.
CARE OF LADDERS
Proper Handling.
Ladders, like any tools, should be handled with care and not subjected
to unnecessary dropping, jarring, or misuse. They are designed for a specific purpose or use; there-
fore, any variation from this use constitutes a mishandling of the equipment.
Storage. Ladders should be stored on racks designed to protect them when not in use. These
racks should have sufficient supporting points to prevent any possibility of excessive sagging. At no
time should material be placed on the ladder while it is in storage.
Transporting. Ladders transported on vehicles need to be properly supported. Overhang of the
ladders beyond supporting points needs to be minimized. Contact points at supports need to be of
a soft non-abrasive material, such as rubber or carpeting, to minimize the chafing and effects of
road shock. Securing the ladder to each support point will minimize damage due to road shock and
vibration.
Truck Racks. Ladders need to be tied down to the truck rack in order to avoid chafing caused by
relative horizontal and vertical motion of the ladder with respect to the truck rack, the truck, and the
individual ladder sections. Swivel type ladder shoes should be secured from pivoting while the vehi-
cle is in motion. Points of contact on all ladder racks and carriers shall incorporate a shock absorb-
ing material where
contact is intended to be made by design while supporting the ladder. This material
may consist of, but is not limited to, rubber and other elastomers, plastics and thermoplastics
and tex-
tiles. In choosing a material for this purpose, care should be exercised
to avoid the presence of abra-
sives such as glass reinforcements and certain mineral fillers in the cushioning materials which may
CARE, USE, AND QUALITY CONTROL
OF REINFORCED PLASTIC LADDERS