Ladder used in rescue operations
A ladder is a vertical or inclined set of steps, usually made of wood, metal, or plastic. They are used to access a higher level that is otherwise unreachable. Ladders are used in rescue operations as well. In these operations, ladders are used to provide access to the victim who is stuck at height and cannot be reached by any other means. A ladder is a primary tool used in rescue operations. It is used to access windows or balconies that are too high or too difficult to reach. There are different types of ladders used in rescue operations.
Ladders are used in rescue operations for two main reasons:
1) To help people reach the top of buildings and other heights they can’t reach otherwise.
2) To provide access to areas that are too dangerous or difficult to get to by any other means.
Different Types of Ladders
Attic Ladder
These ladders are for small spaces as the extensions can be stacked onto each other to be stored away in the attic. These simple extension ladders rely on guided frames to expand or contract. Attic ladders are attached to a door and joined via hinges so that they reach the floor.
Basic Extension Ladders
These ladders are the most frequently used and are very useful for several purposes. It uses tracks to adjust the length and teeth to lock the height into a straight position.
Telescoping Ladders
Telescopic Ladder is a type of extension ladder than can extend out to become the required length, with each subsequent step sometimes becoming less wide or not depending on the design situation. Without any additional support, telescopic ladders do not rank high.
Platform Ladders
Such a ladder with a platform at the top step is known as a platform ladder. Platform ladders have far-reaching measures, like stairs, and that’s why they are handy for painters, electricians, and construction workers who have to stand on the ladder for a long time to complete their job.
Podium Ladders
A podium ladder is very similar to a platform ladder that offers stability and safety for the workers. Podium ladders have more comprehensive steps than a typical ladder to rest tools or other items, and on these ladders, workers can efficiently finish their work.
Multipurpose Ladders
A Multipurpose or Multi-way Ladder can use for more than one purpose. These ladders can be known for a variety of positions and multiple features, so these are known as multipurpose ladders.
Folding Ladders/Articulated Ladders
These types of ladders are just like a step stool. These ladders are not used for higher places; you can easily fold them after finishing the job.
Trestle ladders
Trestle Ladder is similar to that as it supports two people at the same time. These double front ladders are designed to help two people simultaneously.
Step Ladder
This type of ladder is commonly used in any industry or any organization. You can take it anywhere you need because of its self-supporting function, and using this ladder does not require any other support.
Straight Ladder
These ladders are the original ladders made by bamboo, not in the old days but also nowadays these are still made by bamboo. These are portable ladders without any self-supporting function. While using these types of ladders, we need some surface for support.
Flexible Ladder
This type of ladder rolls up. These ladders are used for recreational activities such as emergency escapes, training, obstacle courses, and many more.
Pool Ladder
These ladders can help you quickly get in or out of a pool. Depending on the collection and other physical structures around your pool, these ladders are in different sizes and shapes.
Gorilla Ladders
The ladders are handy, and the steps are durable and can save from accidental breakage, which can cause the user to fall.
Werner Ladders
Werner Ladders are safety equipment that will prevent accidental falls like harnesses and anchors. These ladders are used for construction, general repairs, and maintenance.
Little Giant Ladders
Little Giant ladders are designed to help you work quickly and effectively and are also used in multiple positions and designs. Ladders have adjustable height and podium steps that enable fast deployment, making jobs faster and safer.
Fire Escape Ladders
Fire escape ladders are the stairway down an outside wall to help people escape from a burning building. These ladders are specially designed to bring the firefighters and their equipment to the upper stories of buildings to fire fighting and rescue people.
Hook ladder
Ladders are shaped much like a question mark known as a hook ladder and hang suspended vertically down the face of the building. Firefighters use these ladders to rescue people from burning buildings.
Ladder stabilizer
A ladder stabilizer is a metal piece or aluminum piece that has been molded to attach to the top of any ladder. Ladder stabilizers are essential for working around windows and high walls when painting or doing any exterior work. A ladder stabilizer offers safety while on the ladder when it comes to completing a task that is high above the ground.
Wooden Ladders
the most common and popular ladder type is wood, which is easy to transport and lightweight. They are non-conductors of electricity, making them safe and affordable because wooden ladders are cheap, just like aluminum ladders. Wooden ladders are ideal for outdoor projects in extreme summer or winter.
Aluminum Ladders
Aluminum ladders are the most popular ladder material, which is lightweight and conductive. An aluminum ladder may not be the best choice during electricity work.
Fiberglass Ladders
Fiberglass ladders are long-lasting ladders, and these are the best option for any other ladders. These types of ladders may be suitable for operating near electrical wires or during electrical work. Fiberglass ladders are more expensive than aluminum and wooden ladders and also heavier than aluminum ladders.
Ladder Safety Rules
ladder safety means selecting the right ladder, setting it up safely, and paying attention to working techniques. While using ladders, we consider two main things, one is ladder type, and the second one is ladder height.
Safety steps
Selection of the right ladder for the given task.
Inspection & check damages of your ladder.
Set up in the right & safe place.
Design on a flat surface.
Wearing slip-resistance shoes.
Wear proper PPEs for any work.
Ensure the three-point of contact.
Only one person at a time on the ladder.
Different Types of Ladder Materials.
Hi, I am John Smit a Captain in Fire Department City of Newyork with over years of experience in the field of Firefighting and HSE. My passion for fire safety started when I was a young boy and witnessed a neighbor’s house go up in flames along with precious lives. Since then, I had dedicated my life to ensuring the safety of buildings, properties, and individuals in case of a fire and medical emergencies.