If you need to buy a rolling ladder for your warehouse or distribution center, it’s important to choose a sturdy, safe, and durable ladder that will function properly after many years of use. With that in mind, here is a detailed guide on everything you need to look for when buying rolling ladders.
What are rolling ladders?
A rolling ladder is an essential piece of equipment in warehouses and distribution centers. From equipment maintenance and upkeep to storage facilities and stock rooms, a platform ladder is the best solution for getting within arms reach of an elevated task.
Many people would recognize a rolling ladder from its use in a retail setting. It looks like a set of stairs rising to a platform, and the unit is on wheels so that it can be easily moved around. In fact, rolling ladders can be safely handled and moved into desired positions and locations by one person. The wheels can be locked so the unit is stable when someone uses it.
Rolling ladders are more sturdy and less likely to fall than a standard ladder, so they’re considered a much safer choice at businesses where ladders are used regularly.
Rolling ladders come in a variety of types. These include ladders that fold up for more convenient storage, adjustable-height rolling ladders, and specialty ladders that come equipped with features such as all-terrain wheels or built-in shelves.
What are rolling ladders used for?
You can use rolling ladders in a wide range of commercial settings and applications, including:
- Stocking or accessing high-up products in a stockroom or warehouse
- Completing repairs or other tasks at an elevated level
- Accessing items that are stored at an elevated level at hospitals, schools, offices, and other locations
In short, anytime you need to routinely access elevated levels and/or spend an extended amount of time working at those levels, you could benefit from a rolling ladder. Their ease of maneuverability and safe, sturdy base make them an ideal solution for these tasks.
What are types of rolling ladders made in America?
At Tri-Arc, we are proud to offer a variety of rolling ladder types and styles that are made in America. The company is based in Pittsburgh. Not only does Tri-Arc build our ladders in America, the raw materials we use are sourced almost entirely in America. To serve the wide-ranging needs of our customers, Tri-Arc makes a variety of rolling ladders including:
Steel rolling ladders
Our steel rolling ladders are some of the most sturdy and durable rolling ladders on the market. Featuring a heavy-duty construction, they’re ideal warehouse ladders and come in several varieties. If you need a ladder that’s going to see a lot of use, consider our high-quality steel rolling ladders.
Specialty rolling ladders
Tri-Arc’s specialty rolling ladders come equipped with unique features that make them perfectly suited for specialized tasks. Our all-terrain rolling ladder, for example, features 10-inch, semi-pneumatic wheels that provide easy maneuverability over rough or uneven surfaces. Our stock-picking ladder comes equipped with built-in shelves that make it ideal for gathering stock from a distribution center or warehouse.
50° safety angle incline ladders
Our 50° safety angle incline ladders feature a more gentle incline angle. This makes for a safer ascent and descent and is especially useful for tasks that require a forward-facing descent from the ladder.
Adjustable height ladders
For applications requiring employees to access varying heights, our adjustable height ladders are the perfect solution. These rolling ladders come in 50-90″ and 80″-120″ models. They also feature steps that automatically articulate as you adjust the height of the ladder.
What are other rolling and fixed ladder and platform solutions?
At our Engineered Access Solutions division, Tri-Arc designs and makes custom products for aviation, military, industrial and other customers. Tri-Arc’s product line includes several other options that provide stable, safe access to elevated work zones, including:
Fixed steel ladders
Fixed steel ladders can be attached to walls and come with or without cages at the top.
Work platforms
Work platforms are designed to be rugged, durable, safe and comfortable for the workers who use them. Tri-Arc makes fixed and rolling platforms of different sizes and configurations.
Cantilever ladders
Cantilever ladders give workers access to hard-to-reach areas by allowing the platform to extend beyond the back of the ladder.
What are rolling ladder safety standards?
Rolling ladders are generally considered to be much safer than other types of ladders, but it is still crucial to follow all recommended safety procedures to avoid workplace injuries. Using only ladders that are OSHA certified is a great place to start. Every rolling ladder that Tri-Arc sells has received OSHA certification.
OSHA rules state: “All rolling ladders used in general industry settings must comply with the Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s regulations for Walking-Working Surfaces and Personal Fall Protection Systems (29 CFR part 1910, subpart D).”
Below are some of the key takeaways from this OSHA regulation:
- If a rolling ladder is used, it must be secure. This is important during harsh weather conditions or on uneven ground that could potentially cause the ladder the move.
- Boxes or other unstable bases should never be used to provide additional height.
- Employees who are required to use a platform ladder on the job must be properly trained by certified personnel.
In addition to choosing a ladder that is safe, durable and designed for your needs, it is also important to follow a few best practices and avoid common mistakes that could lead to injury.
Rolling ladder Dos:
- Always inspect your ladder before each use; never step on a ladder that appears to be damaged.
- Use the ladder’s handrails for support when climbing up or down.
- Face the ladder when climbing up or down.
- Make sure that all four corners of the ladder are secure and in place before stepping onto it.
Rolling ladder Don’ts
- Never jump off of a ladder.
- Do not use a rolling ladder on an uneven surface.
- Never lean off of a ladder.
- Don’t try to move or relocate a ladder when someone is on it.
- Note the overall weight capacity and never exceed it.
With a little caution and common sense, rolling ladders are incredibly safe to use. All Tri-Arc ladders have passed the stringent requirements of OSHA certification, so you can rest assured that the Tri-Arc ladder you buy was built with safety in mind.
What is rolling ladder specifications?
Each type of Tri-Arc rolling ladder comes with its own specifications for steel strength, step size, weight capacity, special features and other factors. The web page for each type of ladder includes a link to the complete specifications.
Do you have an application that requires a customized solution?
Contact us and talk to our specialists to find the ideal solution.