Finding the right ladder doesn't have to be complicated. Ballymore Safety Products offers a range of ladders designed for safety, durability, and convenience. Here's a quick-hit guide to help you choose the perfect ladder for your needs.
1. Consider the Ladder Material
Powder-Coated Steel
- Corrosion-resistant, ideal for dry areas
- Load capacity: 450-1000 lbs
- Component-based with replaceable parts
Aluminum
- Lightweight and easy to maneuver
- Indoor or outdoor use
- Load capacity: 350 lbs.
- Not safe around electricity
Hybrid (Aluminum + Steel)
- Combines strength and lightness
- Load capacity: 450 lbs.
Stainless Steel
- Extremely durable and corrosion-resistant
- Perfect for food service, marine, and industrial environments
- Easy to clean and maintain
2. Choose the Right Tread Type
Perforated Step Tread
- Economical with great slip resistance
- Common in retail and storerooms
- Available in steel, aluminum, and stainless steel
Expanded Metal Step Tread
- Aggressive, self-cleaning tread
- Ideal for warehouse and retail floors
- Steel only
Serrated Grating Tread
- Maximum slip resistance for industrial use
- Available in steel, aluminum, and stainless steel
Abrasive Mat Tread
- Solid steel step with non-skid mat
- Ideal for retail
- Steel only
Ribbed Tread
- Economical aluminum option
- Aluminum only
3. Specialty & Custom Ladder Options
- Deep top steps for heavy or bulky items
- All-directional ladders for versatile movement
- Employee-only signange or custom colors
- Ballymore offers custom orders for unique needs
4. Size Matters
Platform Height
- Consider working height and platform height
- Maximum convenient working height: 5-6 feet above the platform
Ceiling Height
- Minimum ceiling clearance: 6-7 feet above the platform
Step Width
- Standard widths: 16", 24", 36"
- Wider ladders are safer for bulky loads
Aisle Space & Obstructions
- Ensure enough room for use and storage
- Consider doors, overheads, and corners
Note: Load capacity includes the user and materials.
5. Locking Mechanisms for Safety
Lift Assist Lockstep (Ballymore Patented)
- Automatically secures ladder when weight is applied
Weight-Actuated Lockstep (Ballymore Patented)
- State-of-the-art automatic lock step for stair sections
Standard Lockstep
- Ideal for ladders over 5 steps
- Raises into rolling position using the lift bar
Spring-Loaded Casters
- Best for ladders 5 steps or fewer
- Wheels retract under user weight to secure ladder
Quick Takeaways
- Match ladder material to environment and load needs
- Pick a tread that fits your workplace: retail, warehouse, or industrial
- Measure heights and widths carefully (space matters)
- Choose a locking mechanism that maximizes safety
- Ballymore offers specialty and custom ladders for unique requirements
With the right ladder, your workplace can stay safe, efficient, and compliant. Ballymore Safety Products makes it easy to choose the perfect ladder for any environment.Â
Still unsure of what kind of ladder would be best for your space? Contact us today at 1-866-801-9829 or request a quote to find the best storage for your needs!
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