Ladders are an indispensable tool in our daily lives. Whether you are cleaning windows or repairing roofs, you can't do without the help of ladders. The right ladder makes your work easier and safer. There are many types of ladders, including extension ladders, step ladders, multi-purpose ladders, loft ladders ，foldable ladder and scaffolding. The step ladder includes one step ladder,  two-step ladder,  three-step ladder, and the like. How to choose the one that fits your job needs among the many ladders is very important to you. The significance of this article is to help you pick a suitable ladder.

Match Your Ladder Size To Your Work

There are numerous ladder sizes and lengths. You need to know the maximum reach height when shopping. Keep these points in mind to avoid buying one that’s too short or too tall so you can work safely and efficiently.

1.Stand no higher than two steps down from the top of a step ladder. Typically, this means a 5-1/2-foot person with a vertical 1-foot reach can safely access a point 4 feet beyond the length of the ladder.

An extension ladder needs to be several feet taller than the height you need to reach.

2.The highest, safe standing level is four rungs from the top of the ladder.

3.The sections must overlap at least 3 feet on ladders up to 36 feet in length and as much as 5 feet on longer ladders.

4.The ladder should be at the correct angle, with the base 1 foot out from the surface it rests against for every 4 feet of height to that point.

5.When the ladder rests against a surface, such as a roof line, it needs to extend 3 feet beyond the top support point.

6.All of these factors combined mean you should look for an extension ladder 7 to 10 feet longer than the highest point it rests against.

7.Make sure you keep three points of contact when climbing, descending or working (two hands and one foot or one hand and two feet on the ladder at all times). 

Ladder Load Capacity Ratings

Load capacity or duty rating indicates the weight a ladder can handle. You may also see this referred to as a performance rating. To determine the load capacity, include the weight of the user plus the weight of any tools and materials you need to use. Look for the following ladder ratings:

1.Type IAA ladders have a load capacity of 375 pounds.

2.Type IA ladders have a load capacity of 300 pounds.

3.Type I ladders have a load capacity of 250 pounds.

4.Type II ladders have a load capacity of 225 pounds.

5. Type III ladders have a load capacity of 200 pounds.

Ladder ratings are provided by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI).

There are many factors to consider when choosing a ladder. This is to ensure your safety when using the ladder.