Ladders or Steps?

Are you taking on feats worthy of a place in cirque de solei, just to get at that thing that you can’t quite reach?

Seriously though – if you’re required to work from a height you need to have access to the right equipment at all times. We’re not just saying this; it is part of the working at height regulations that all employers need to comply with.

Selecting the right tool for the job

At Manutan UK, we know that the job won’t be done properly and efficiently without the correct tools, and working at height is no different. The first thing to do is assess what the job entails and consider the following:

• At what height will you be working?
• How long will you be working for without a break?
• Will you move the equipment – if so, how often?
• Will you have restricted access to the area you need to work?
• Will the work involve lifting anything heavy?

There is a useful tool that the HSE has made available here that guides you to the most appropriate type of access equipment for your needs.

Now you know what type of equipment is going to be suitable for the job, here are a few options from our range:

Ladders

Telescopic Ladder – its lightweight (aluminium) and can be extended rung by rung up to 3.8m

Adjustable Ladder 3.7m – the reinforced auto-locking hinge enables the user to configure the ladder as a workbench, A-frame step and extension ladder.

Little Giant Ladder 5.21m – can be used in 16 unique configurations, as an A-Frame, extension, staircase, as a 90–degree ladder and as a trestle and plank scaffolding system.

8 tread industrial glass fibre extension ladder – non-conductive, for use where electricity may be present. Dual-action articulated feet enable the ladder to be used on hard or soft ground.

Click here to view our complete range of ladders.

Steps – everyday light-duty use

Mobile kick steps – ideal for accessing those just out of reach places. Spring-loaded castors that retract when weight is applied, providing a safe and steady working platform.

Foldable plastic step stool – ideal for maintenance activities. Slip-resistant and will stand upright when folded.

High back folding steps – handrail fitted with black foam rubber for additional grip or back support.

Click here to view our complete range of steps.

Steps/Towers – Heavy-duty

Large platform mobile steps – Step and platform handrails ensure user safety. Domed feet with rubber protection rings and retractable castors ensure complete immobility and safety when weight is applied during use.

Heavy-duty mobile safety steps – twin handrails for user safety. Retractable front castors which are hand lever operated. Caution/operation notice fitted to each step to remind the user of the safe operating procedures. Has a 100mm toe board on the top of the platform to prevent objects such as tools from falling

Telescopic folding tower – safe and more efficient alternative to fixed scaffolding, podiums, and other mobile access towers. Provides 4m of working height, from the van to in situ in 3 minutes or less!

5 Step access platform 1150mm – 48° incline for safe and easy use and a large working platform with removable safety chains on 3 sides for access.

To view our full range of ladders, steps and tower click here.

Roof rack clamps – the essential travel companion

Safely transporting your equipment from one location to another is a concern. With the exception of the working platform, it is unlikely the steps and ladders will fit conveniently in a van for transportation.

Check and see if the roof rack clamps sold by Manutan UK are going to be what you need to make moving the ladders easier. Even if you already use roof rack clamps, we recommend reviewing these regularly to ensure they are as sturdy as they should be.

We have 77 different ladders, steps and towers to suit all kinds of working at height. If you need any more advice get in touch with our sales team on sales@manutan.co.uk or call us on 0800 652 6000

At Manutan UK, we are passionate about providing our customers with the right products and information so that they can get on with the important job of running their business. Let us know if there is any other information you need, and we can get it added to our blog for you.