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chris42  
#1 Posted : 21 April 2014 09:14:12(UTC)
Rank: Super forum user
chris42

Hi all

Looking for issues with combination ladders for those that use them. I have been asked by another manager if these are ok to use. I'm aware of the general issue with ladders in general, but wondered if anyone had any issues with this particular type ( link below gives an example, not necessarily the one we may buy). They seem to generally be to EN 131, so light commercial. This is fine as we only need to do short duration light work ( change bulbs, screwdriver type work). It will also be on good flat ground (tar Mac or concrete).

http://alloyaccess.net/z...KXwcWL8b0CFczItAodiz0A5g

The only reason I ask is that I'm not familiar using these and wondered if there is any particular issues worthy of note. I also was shown a picture from a web site showing someone up one of these (16 feet -same as we would want) cutting a hedge, didn't fancy it myself. So made me wonder.

I can't actually see a problem with their request, just wondered if there any unusual issues with this type.

Chris

frankc  
#2 Posted : 21 April 2014 19:12:53(UTC)
Rank: Super forum user
frankc

Chris42 wrote:


I can't actually see a problem with their request, just wondered if there any unusual issues with this type.

Chris



Can't see a problem myself if you are only using them for the work you described (Light work of short duration)
chris42  
#3 Posted : 23 April 2014 09:21:46(UTC)
Rank: Super forum user
chris42

Thanks Frankc

It was just the picture of the ladder in extended step ladder form, with the mans feet on a rung higher than what would be the apex of a step ladder. His centre of gravity was within the footprint of the ladder, but looked a bit odd.

Cheers
Chris
Steve e ashton  
#4 Posted : 23 April 2014 13:08:59(UTC)
Rank: Super forum user
Steve e ashton

I can't speak from professional knowledge but I use one of these myself at home. (Gutter cleaning, honeysuckle trimming, sky dish tightening, bulb-over stair well replacement). The one I have feels a wee bit 'wibbly' when standing above the 'apex' - but I put that down to my own knocking knees rather than any inherent flex or other problem with the ladders themselves (I have a problem with depths, not heights). As you say, above the 'apex' is still within the footprint and the centre of gravity is fairly well centred between the feet... And having something to hold onto is seriously so much better than standing on the top step of a conventional stepladder! (Yeah yeah I know - but I'm sure we've all been tempted!). And for the occasional use as an extension ladder (apple picking, ball retrieval, gutter cleaning (higher section of roof) it provides the additional options that a conventional SL doesn't.
chris42  
#5 Posted : 23 April 2014 13:33:31(UTC)
Rank: Super forum user
chris42

I may have been more than tempted in the past - BHSC (Before Health & Safety Career). Especially when I had a desire to get in my attic, on days long gone where I could only dream of owning a proper attic ladder. When sky was that blue stuff above my head and I was indestructible.

Now sky is a TV package and clouds have something to do with computers. I now have a proper attic ladder and I know I'm not indestructible.

Chris
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