Ladder

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Ladder and telegraph pole

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Leaning ladder setup

Ladder is a vertical or inclined set of rungs or steps. There are two types: rigid ladders that are self-supporting or that may be leaned against a vertical surface such as a wall, and rollable ladders, such as those made of rope or aluminium, that may be hung from the top. The vertical members of a rigid ladder are called stringers or rails (US) or stiles (UK). Ladders are commonly made of wood, metal, or fiberglass, but they have also been made of tough plastic.

Ladders have a wide range of uses, from simple domestic tasks such as reaching high shelves or attic spaces, to complex construction projects, where they are used to access the upper levels of buildings under construction. They are also used extensively in agriculture, for tasks such as picking fruit in orchards, and in various industrial contexts.

Types of Ladders

Step Ladder

A Step ladder is a self-supporting ladder. It consists of a wide base and a top platform with steps in between. It is hinged in the middle to fold for easy storage and transport. Step ladders are ideal for use when a stable and firm standing surface is needed.

Extension Ladder

An Extension ladder consists of two or more sections that slide along one another to achieve a greater length. They are used for reaching high places and are leaned against a support. Safety is a key consideration with extension ladders, and they should be positioned at the correct angle to prevent accidents.

Telescopic Ladder

A Telescopic ladder is a modern innovation where the ladder can slide inward and outward, similar to the sections of a telescope. This allows for easy storage and transport while still providing significant reach when fully extended.

Rope Ladder

A Rope ladder is made of rope and rungs, often used in emergency situations, such as fire escape ladders. They are also used for boarding ships and in outdoor activities like tree climbing.

Multi-Purpose Ladder

A Multi-Purpose ladder can be adjusted to serve as a step ladder, extension ladder, or scaffold. These ladders are versatile and can be used for a variety of tasks around the home or workplace.

Safety Considerations

When using a ladder, safety is paramount. It is important to ensure that the ladder is stable and secure before climbing. The use of a ladder should always comply with local safety regulations and guidelines, which may include proper angle placement, securing the ladder at the top and bottom, and avoiding overreaching while on the ladder.

History

The history of ladders dates back thousands of years. Early ladders were made from tree branches and were used to reach high places, for both practical purposes such as harvesting fruit and for ceremonial purposes. The design of ladders has evolved over the centuries, with materials and construction techniques improving to increase safety and functionality.

In Culture

Ladders have also played a role in various cultural and religious contexts. For example, the biblical story of Jacob's Ladder, in which Jacob dreams of a ladder reaching to heaven, has been interpreted in many ways across different cultures and religious traditions.

See Also

• Scaffolding
• Stairway
• Fire escape