Platform
The presence in the design of the stairs
of the platform — a special platform in the upper part. Such a platform is much larger than steps in area and it is noticeably more convenient to stand on it, especially if you have to turn in different directions during work.
Note that in double-sided ladders, the role of the platform can be played by the two upper steps, which are put together in the working position.
Tool shelf
The presence in the design of the stairs of a separate
shelf for tools.
The shelf is found mainly in ladders and mini ladders (see "Type"). It is a flat surface at the top of the ladder, either on the rail above the footboard or where the two halves of the ladder meet. Such a surface, usually, has holes or recesses for secure placement of tools; other special devices may be provided, for example, a hook on which you can hang a bucket.
The advantage of this function is obvious: it allows you to always have the necessary tools at hand, and it is more convenient to keep them on a shelf than, for example, in your pockets.
Max. height
The maximum working height of the ladder. In models that do not have a footboard (see above), this parameter is usually indicated in the specifications for the total length of the stairs. It is worth noting here that the height of the upper step in such cases rarely corresponds to the working height to the nearest centimeter - firstly, the stairs are almost never strictly vertical, and secondly, the outermost steps are usually not on the very edge. However, in most cases this difference can be neglected. If the design provides for a footboard, then the height is measured along it.
When choosing a ladder by height, it should be taken into account that the longer the structure, the greater its weight and, usually, the higher the price. Therefore, buying a model with a long length makes sense only when there is a real need for it.
Dimensions (folded) (LxW)
Ladder dimensions in fully folded position. The smaller they are, the more convenient the ladder will be in storage and transportation. Usually, only the length and width are indicated in the characteristics, because. the thickness of modern stairs is very small and in most cases it can be neglected; and in some models, only the length may be indicated at all — for the same reasons.
Weight
The total weight of the ladder. On the one hand, the lighter the model you choose, the more convenient it will be to carry, the less effort will be expended. On the other hand, lighter weight means less material used in the construction of the stairs, and this can adversely affect reliability. Therefore, it is worth choosing an option for this parameter depending on the planned features of the application. If the expected load on the ladder is significantly lower than the maximum, then you can not pay close attention to the weight. But if you have doubts and/or plan to work in difficult conditions with a heavy load, you should choose the more massive one from two models with the same characteristics. It is unlikely that this will seriously affect the cost of forces, but the risk of breakage and a dangerous fall will decrease significantly.
