Unlike single or double section ladders, triple extension ladders pose an extra level of complexity. First of all, they're heavier than most other ladders and secondly, they're a lot more awkward to move around and handle.
In today's blog, we take a look at some of the common queries we get about triple extension ladders to show you how to use them in a safe manner. Don't forget you can shop our entire range of triple extension ladders by clicking the button below:
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How to inspect a triple extension ladder
Before using your ladder we'd always recommend carrying out a thorough ladder inspection and risk assessment. With triple extension ladders, the potential hazards are a little more serious.
Most triple extension ladders reach much taller than single or double extension ladders, some even reach heights up to 10 metres! Because of their longer-than-average lengths, it's absolutely paramount that you're confident the ladder can support you while you work at height.
If you notice any of the following, do not use your triple extension ladder:
- Damage to the rungs
- Damage to the rung locks
- Damage to the pulley system
When carrying out your risk assessment to determine whether or not it's safe to use your triple extension ladder in a particular space, you should:
- Check that the floor is even
- Make sure you can complete the task at hand without leaning to one side or standing on the very top rungs
- Ensure you can maintain at least three points of contact with the ladder at all times
How to fully extend a triple extension ladder
To fully extend your triple extension ladder, you should start by moving the ladder near to where you want to ascend (it can be a bit of a pain to move the ladder once it's fully extended). Then, start to move the sections apart, if the triple extension ladder is rope operated, this will just be a matter of pulling the rope down towards you.
As the ladder starts to extend, you should be able to clip the rung locks in place using the locking mechanism to create a ladder that's completely secure from the base to the top!
Be wary of your hands as you extend your triple extension ladder, fingers and hands can be pinched between the moving sections easily.
How to position a triple extension ladder
To position your triple extension ladder against a structure safely, you need to make sure it's propped up at a safe angle. Make sure that both the left and right sides of the ladder make contact with the wall in front, and don't start to ascend until you're confident that it's safe to do so. We go into more detail about putting a ladder against a house in a previous blog.
Using the ladder safely involves climbing up one rung at a time and maintaining three points of contact with the ladder. If you have small items that you need to take up your triple extension ladder with you, we'd recommend putting them in a secure tool belt around your waist. Climb slowly and steadily... it's not a race!
How to store a triple extension ladder
Once you've finished using your triple extension ladder, simply retract the sections and find a suitable space to store it. Most triple extension ladders are compact when they're not in use, meaning you should be able to store your in your shed or garage with ease.
Whether your triple extension ladder is made of aluminium or glass fibre, you should keep it somewhere dry and out of harm's way. This will help to keep your ladder working properly for longer. Read more tips on storing your ladder.
Hopefully, this answers some of your questions about using and storing your triple extension ladder. Shop our triple extension ladders now. Got a query about our triple extension ladders? Give us a call on 01446 789538.
