From step stools to 50' scaffolding human beings have been extending their reach to greater and greater heights through the use of ladders. These nifty gadgets come in aluminum, wooden, metal and even plastic and are used for a variety of purposes. Different types are needed for reaching high shelves, accessing attic or loft spaces, climbing onto a roof, scrolling along a ceiling to floor bookcase or building the top floor of a 20 story high-rise. The price of this tool ranges from cheap household to expensive industrial models.
Rolling ladders tend to work best when perusing a room filled library with ceiling to floor shelves. They attach to the top shelf (like a library roll) along a track and allow avid readers to access books on the top shelves of their extensive libraries. Want to utilize attic or loft space but don't want the steps constantly in the way? Install a Televator or telescope device that folds up into free space in the attic and pull down only when needed. An extension model is needed to expand the length of reach on smaller models. Aluminum scaffolding for taller buildings require aluminum scaffolding planks for the builders to stand on and reach their work.
Metal Saw
Safety factors are always a concern but even more so when using cheap or used steps. First of all choose the right type of ladder for intended purpose. There are three basic types of ladders; industrial or heavy-duty with a 250 pound capacity, commercial medium duty for loads up to 225 lbs. and household light duty with a 200 lb. load capacity. When using a ladder following basic safety rules. Place it on an even, straight surface and ensure it extends at least 3 feet beyond the destination surface. Make sure it's steady when both climbing up or down and keep both feet on the rungs. Never leave a ladder unattended! The last important item for ladder safety is maintenance. Inspect wood ones for cracks, splintering or rotting. Look for broken or immovable joints on extension types and broken welds or cracks on aluminum ones.
Ladders are everywhere around us including descending into pools and off fire escapes. With proper maintenance and use these handy tools can expand the ability to reach places otherwise inaccessible.