Discover the Versatility of Ships Ladder

When standard ladders aren’t the right fit for a small space with limited access room, ships ladders are what come to mind. Building contractors, construction professionals, architects, spec writers, and even roofing contractors and safety engineers have come to rely on ships ladders for safely accessing small spaces.

According to OSHA, ships ladders are fixed ladders with treads, risers, and steps that slope 50 to70 degrees horizontally. They are steeper than standard ladders and are designed for permanent installation.

Ship ladder applications

They may have been originally built and designed for ships, particularly for a ship’s deck and mezzanine, but they have come a long way since. Today, these space-saving access solutions are utilized in a variety of settings and environments, making them one of the most versatile ladders used today in commercial, industrial, and residential applications.

Loft access

There are ladders designed specifically for lofts, but when these are found to be too big for a loft’s access room below, aluminum ships ladders are a great substitute. A fixed access ship ladder is typically found in industrial and commercial settings for loft access.

Maintenance applications

In certain buildings and commercial structures, maintenance areas include small, tight spaces, and if the upper levels of these areas need to be accessed by maintenance personnel from time to time, a ship ladder could be the best access solution. Bear in mind, however, that for safety purposes, users must always have both hands on the handrails when ascending and descending. This means that any tool, equipment, or material needed for maintenance repairs must be attached to the body so, both hands are free to use the rails.

Also, take note of the weight and load capacity of the ladder to ensure users’ safety.

Equipment and machine access

Industrial work environments include machineries and equipment of various shapes and sizes, and these require routine maintenance checks as well as repairs as necessary. A portable ladder may not be the best access solution as it does not provide the same stability as a fixed ladder.

A ship ladder’s steep and small size make it a good access solution for certain machines and equipment. It is permanently installed with sturdy brackets, giving users a more stable and a safer means of access when equipment maintenance or repair is required.

Alaco Ladder’s Heavy Duty Aluminum ships ladders are as strong as steel ladders but lighter, easier to handle, install, and maintain, and more sustainable than steel. Alaco also manufactures and assembles Fall Arrest Systems, the newest things in ladder safety. They can discuss this with you as your alternative fall prevention solution for your ship ladder.

Fill out the Contact Form here so we can immediately discuss in detail your ladder requirements. For inquiries, you may also reach Alaco Ladder Company at (888) 310-7040.