Ladders
A-frame aluminium stepladders
Aluminium steps are made of aluminium alloy, they are lighter than timber steps, very strong, rot proof and will not twist, warp or burn.
Parts
Treads – Not less than 76mm deep, they must have a non-slip surface and be horizontal when the steps are open.
Top – Not less than 100mm deep.
Back – Attached to the top by one pair of heavy-duty back flaps.
Locking Bar – Fitted to limit the degree of opening and prevent collapse.
Feet – Fitted on the bottom of all four stiles. They must be made of a non-slip material such as rubber and be easily replaced.
Sizes
Steps are sold by the number of treads; standard sizes are between two and fourteen treads.
The examples below are the approximate working heights of the steps when open.
The top step counts as one tread.
- 6 treads – 1.4 metres
- 8 treads – 1.8 metres
- 10 treads – 2.3 meters
- 12 treads – 2.8 meters
Ladder Safety
Safety checklist
Steps should not be used if they have any of the following defects
Broken, missing or makeshift treads Loose treads Dirty or greasy treads Broken stiles A defective locking bar.
Stepladders and folding trestles are not designed for any degree of side loading and become very unstable when they are used against the manufacturer's instructions.