When you need to reach things up high, a ladder is the obvious tool of choice. But if getting the job done means you’re up there for a long time, a stepladder can be a bit of a pain. A ladder work platform offers a solid, stable surface for you to stand on while you work, leaving both your hands free and your feet comfortable. They’re a great choice for painting, repairs, or any task that requires a bit of extra height, stability and freedom of movement. Plus with an adjustable aluminium work platform, you can set the height just right for any task.
Aluminium Work Platform Ladder FAQ
What’s the difference between a regular ladder and a work platform ladder?
A regular ladder has steps and is usually smaller and lighter with a narrower base than a platform ladder. They’re great when you need to reach stuff, but a platform ladder goes that extra mile when there’s work to be done.
Platform ladders, as the name suggests, have a flat surface or platform that you can stand on while you tackle tasks. Not only does this mean they’re more comfortable on your feet, but they’re often bigger and taller than regular ladders and have added safety features. Sporting a wider base for better stability, they may also have handrails and safety booms (which encircle you to help prevent falls) meaning you have support at any height. Being able to stand safely on the platform also allows you to use both hands and turn in whatever direction you need, unlike stepladders where you’re restricted to a single direction and only have one hand free. Most work platforms are just large enough to stand comfortably with two feet, though a portable work platform for painting generally has a very large work platform that can be around a metre long and half a metre wide.
Can you stand on the top step of an aluminium work platform ladder?
If the top step of your ladder is the work platform then yes, you can definitely stand on it. While you should never stand on the top step of a regular stepladder, generally platform ladders are designed so that the uppermost step is the work platform. Above this there may be a guard rail or boom – this is there to help stabilise you and should never be used to stand on. If you have a height adjustable work platform, always make sure it’s locked in place securely before climbing onboard, and that the ladder itself is on firm, even ground and stable before use.
What are the benefits of aluminium work platform ladders?
Aluminium is great for ladders. It’s lightweight which means you can move the ladder around without breaking a sweat, but it’s also incredibly durable to handle whatever the worksite throws at it. Being rust resistant makes it perfect for both indoor and outdoor tasks. An aluminium adjustable work platform allows you to tailor the height to your specific needs, making it versatile for different projects while offering the strength and security to safely stand on it all day.
Can you leave aluminium work platform ladders outside?
While its rust resistant nature means you could leave your aluminium work platform ladder outdoors occasionally, it’s best not to make a habit of it. Remember, rust resistance doesn’t mean it’s impervious to the ravages of the weather, and rust will eventually set in if left outdoors. So to ensure your ladder lasts a long time, you should treat it right. When you’re not using it, store your ladder in a dry, covered area to protect it from the elements. This will help avoid unnecessary wear and tear so it stays in top condition for years to come.
