Workers rely on a variety of ladders for critical jobs across utility operations. From inspection and monitoring tasks to routine maintenance and emergency repairs, technicians, trades and other specialists need ladders to suit a range of access requirements, heights and working positions. There are often tight spaces to contend with, and the need to move ladders between sites.
The need for multiple ladders can create challenges. Workers going back and forth to get a different ladder waste time and can end up more fatigued. This is compounded if a worker driving between sites forgets to pack a key ladder entirely. Workers using the wrong ladder may lean or reach to get the job done, risking their safety and impacting productivity.
The Bailey Step Extension Ladder is a clever solution that has been developed to cut down on the number of ladders workers require to get jobs done safely and efficiently.
The Bailey Step Extension Ladder is a single ladder that covers three working positions, converting from a leaning ladder to a step ladder to an extension ladder. Stephen Laughlan, Marketing Manager for Prodriven Brands, says this flexibility is a game-changer.
“Within the limits of the size of the ladder, the Bailey Step Extension Ladder will allow you to do whatever job you need to. This is the all-in-one solution for any trade.”
The ladder can be positioned to lean against a wall for close-up work. The back legs have been designed to fold in without interfering with the front feet being flat on the ground, preventing the ladder from tipping. The ladder also features a factory fitted v-rung.
“The v-rung creates a groove to allow the ladder to be set on a rounded surface such as a power pole with more contact. This provides additional stability and keeps the ladder from moving when in the lean position,” Stephen says.
When there aren’t walls for support, the ladder can function as a standard step ladder. It’s rated for loads up to 150kg, and features anti-slip rubber boots to keep the ladder stable.
Instead of swinging into an extended position like most standard ladders, the Bailey Step Extension Ladder extends smoothly on a metal slide, making it ideal for high access points and tight spaces. The extension features heavy duty locking hinges and a full step overlapping construction for stability and safety.
The legs extend at 300mm increments, allowing workers to set the height of the ladder exactly to their specifications, and the back legs are narrow, so they can more easily fit work in tight spaces.
The ladder comes in six, seven and eight-step options, depending on the level of access workers require. The six-step ladder has a minimum height of 1.79m, with a maximum reach of 4.13m. The seven-step ladder has a minimum height of 2.09m with a maximum reach of 4.73m. The eight-step ladder has a minimum height of 2.39m, with a maximum reach height of 5.03m.
The ladder is available in both aluminium and fibreglass. The fibreglass model is preferred in the utilities sector because the material is non‑conductive, reducing the risk of electric shock when workers are handling equipment or components that may be live. A multi-function top cap allows workers to safely store tools and materials while performing tasks. When workers require multiple tools, they can get the job done efficiently, without constantly climbing up and down the ladder.
The ladder features PUNCHLOCK production technology, which connects the tread to the stile for greater torsional rigidity. This makes the ladder stronger and more durable compared to the use of rivets.
“Rivets loosen over time, requiring the ladder to be replaced. But the Bailey Step Extension ladder will last for many years, saving you money over the longer term,” Stephen says.
The Bailey Step Extension Ladder carries a limited lifetime warranty and complies with Australian Standard 1892, which governs the design, construction and use of portable ladders. It also has an industrial duty rating, making it compliant for use on commercial sites.
As Australia’s leading supplier of industrial solutions, Blackwoods has everything you need to keep your operations running smoothly. Keep your workforce moving, safely and efficiently with the Bailey Step Extension Ladder. Contact your Blackwoods account manager to find out more.