Maintenance Errors That Reduce the Lifespan of Aluminum Ladders

A durable aluminum ladder quickly becomes indispensable on a job site and is taken for granted by many workers. It's important to know that maintenance errors can impact its lifespan. Furthermore, they can pose a safety risk to workers.

Proper maintenance of aluminum ladders can extend their lifespan with minimal effort.

Does proper maintenance of an aluminum ladder matter?

An aluminum ladder installed on a job site is a means of safely ascending to heights. Its poor technical condition can lead to accidents.

Neglecting proper maintenance can turn a ladder into a workplace hazard.

Proper and timely maintenance of aluminum ladders can extend their lifespan, save money, and ensure the safety of workers.

To prevent actual accidents, inspect the ladder before use and identify any defects, such as:

• Bent steps,
• Loose rivets.

What mistakes should be avoided when maintaining ladders?

1. Neglecting scheduled inspections

This is the most common mistake:

A ladder should be visually inspected before each use. However, not many workers do this.

It is recommended to inspect the ladder monthly using a checklist for:

• Loose bolts,
• Cracks near hinges,
• Bent guides.

Ignoring these problems is the quickest way to shorten the lifespan of the ladder.

2. Harsh cleaning agents

Although aluminum alloys are durable, their protective oxide layer can be damaged by the use of strong chemicals.

Steel scrapers and acidic cleaning agents can damage the protective oxide layer, which can lead to pitting.

To clean aluminum ladders, use mild soap and clean water.

By following simple ladder maintenance guidelines, you will keep the metal surface intact. 

3. Damp Ladder Storage Conditions

Although aluminum alloys are resistant to corrosion, they are not completely impervious to it. Storing a ladder on wet ground or concrete, or outdoors, can lead to its deterioration.

If a ladder is stored in conditions of constant humidity, especially near the coast, corrosion protection measures should be taken: choose dry locations, store the ladder horizontally, and maintain a certain distance from the ground.

We offer the highest quality aluminum ladders. Each aluminum ladder comes with a warranty, technical data sheet, and is certified according to DSTU and EN131.

Call us or email us if you need clarification on any questions about aluminum ladders, which you can buy in just one click!

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