Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What are the major features and benefits of Steel, Aluminum, and Stainless Steel ?

• Steel Ladders : For all around general purpose. Very rugged and economical.
• Aluminum Ladders : Non-magnetic and non-sparking. Paint-free for pharmaceutical & food applications. Aluminum mill finish with industrial grade welds. Also ideal for wash-down applications.
• Stainless Steel Ladders : Type 304 Stainless Steel construction. Ideal for wash-down and corrosive environments. Bead blasted finish. All stainless steel ladders are manufactured with industrial grade welds. Not recommended for Clean Room applications.

What are the differences between Ladder Slope and Stairway Slope ?

• Standard ladders have a Ladder Slope (approximately 59 degrees) and are designed for the user to face the steps when climbing and descending the ladder.
• Stairway Slope ladders (approximately 50 degree slope) allow the user to face outward when descending the ladder. Stairway Slope ladders are particularly effective when carrying heavy or bulky items up or down the ladder. Stairway Slope ladders have a longer base than Standard Ladder Slope ladders and the All-Directional Option is recommended on larger models to improve maneuverability.

What is the function of a Spring-Loaded Caster ?

• Spring-Loaded Casters retract under the user’s weight to secure the ladder to the floor. They function particularly well on shorter ladders (5 steps and below), and offer maximum maneuverability.

How does a Standard Lockstep work?  Is there another option?

• Standard Lockstep Ladders are ideal for applications over 5 steps. Ladder locks in place to climb when the trip bar is activated on the bottom step. Pedals under the bottom step release the Lockstep and allow the ladder to roll.
• The Weight Actuated Lockstep is the premium lockstep and is patented by Ballymore. The lockstep automatically activates when 70 lbs. of weight is applied to the stair section. The pedal under the bottom step releases the lockstep allowing the ladder to roll. It's the safest, most durable lockstep on the market today.

How do I choose Step Tread for my application ?

STEEL LADDERS :

• Perforated Step Tread : Economical, and provides excellent slip resistance. This tread is used extensively in retail and storeroom applications
• Expanded Metal Step Tread : This aggressive tread is ideal for warehouse or retail applications. This design is self-cleaning, allowing foot debris to fall through the tread.
• Abrasive Mat Tread : A solid steel step with a Non-Skid Abrasive Mat. Ideal for retail applications.
• Serrated Grating Tread : This is the most aggressive tread and is designed for the shop floor or any industrial application where maximum slip resistance is required.

STAINLESS STEEL LADDERS :

• Available with either Perforated or Serrated Grating Tread

ALUMINUM LADDERS :

• Ribbed Extrusion Tread : Solid Tread with non-slip ribs across the width of the step.
• Serrated Grating Tread : Aggressive open tread. Great for wash-down applications.