Spreaders are long treads that extend well past the vertical ropes to stop the ladder from twisting about its long axis (possible when a ship rolls and the ladder is no longer in contact with the ship’s side) with the person possibly becoming trapped between the ship’s side and the ladder. When not being used, the ladder is stowed away (usually rolled up) rather than left hanging. On late 19th-century warships this kind of ladder would replace the normal fixed ladders on deck during battle. These and railings would be removed and replaced with Jacob’s ladders and ropes while preparing for battle the days before. This was done to prevent them from blocking line of sight or turning into shrapnel when hit by enemy shells.
They are used to allow access over the side of ships and as a result Pilot ladders are often incorrectly referred to as Jacob’s ladders. A pilot ladder has specific regulations on step size, spacing and the use of spreaders. It is the use of spreaders in a pilot ladder that distinguishes it from a Jacob’s ladder.
While they were a popular way of boarding a vessel or carrying out shipside maintenance during the era of wooden ships and even as recently as the 1950s, their use today on board modern merchant ships is minimal due to obvious safety issues. Today, Jacob’s ladders are used only to board lifeboats and liferafts and as a draft ladder.
The first is a flexible hanging ladder. It consists of vertical ropes or chains supporting horizontal, historically round and wooden, rungs. Today, flat runged flexible ladders are also called Jacob’s ladders. The name is commonly used without the apostrophe (Jacobs ladder).The second applies to a kind of ladder found on square rigged ships. To climb above the lower mast to the topmast and above, sailors must get around the top, a platform projecting from the mast. Although on many ships the only way round was the overhanging futtock shrouds, modern-day tall ships often provide an easier vertical ladder from the ratlines as well. This is the Jacob’s ladder.
Safety is key when it comes to all DIY or home improvement projects, and the same can be said wherever you are entering and exiting the loft. When it comes to loft ladder safety, you can never be too cautious. It’s easy to avoid simple safety precautions, especially when you may use a loft ladder regularly, however caution should always be a priority.
When using a loft ladder, you must keep three points of contact at all times. This makes sure that you always have a secure connection to the loft ladder at all times. Difficulty may arise when you are wanting to carry items in and out of the loft, so we suggest a second person standing by to help and hold the ladder.
Considering the importance of correct installation to ensure optimum loft ladder safety, you should consult a specialised company, such as Loft Centre, who can recommend the safest system for your particular loft, and help you choose amongst the numerous ladder types. Although Loft Centre do not fit loft ladders, we supply an excellent range of safe, sturdy loft ladders that are easy to fit.When using ladders, you should wear a flat, closed toe shoe. Shoes or trainers with a bit of grip are best. Foot wear like sandals or slippers can often have slippery soles which can cause a fall. Always double check your laces are tied before using the loft ladder.
It should be positioned firmly under the loft hatch or trap-door, the slightest wobble is an alarm bell, and it should comfortably reach the loft opening.
Overloading yourself while ascending and descending a ladder can result in a serious injury. Double check the class rating and duty of the ladder, if you can’t find your specific model, just remember to never carry more than 130 kg when using a loft ladder.The best loft ladders are carefully designed to ensure the user’s safety. There are also plenty of additional parts you can purchase to make sure your ladder is extra secure, such as handrails and loft exit grab rails.
Even though most lofts get used infrequently (if only used as a storage space), loft ladder safety should not be taken lightly. The ladder should be sturdy and present solid handholds and footholds. It’s a good idea to check your loft ladder regularly to make sure all the features are in good order and there are no obvious signs of damage that could compromise its stability.
The installation of your loft ladder can majorly affect your safety while using it, and most loft ladder accidents are due to incorrect ladder installation. Loft ladders that are fitted correctly, are installed into restricted spaces and are secure. They come in numerous sizes, are easy to install and observe all safety regulations. Standard, fitted loft ladders are sturdy objects: once they are installed they convey a sense of reassurance. The installation should be done by professional craftsmen or a DIY expert, so that you can rest easy that all safety regulations have been observed. Often the hatch that leads to the loft needs changing to fit well with the model you have chosen; renewing an old hatch is another significant safety measure as you update to newer materials and systems.
You have the freedom to choose from multiple sliding sections, concertina loft ladders, telescopic loft ladders or sliding varieties, you’re guaranteed loft ladders that are reliable and sturdy, giving you the freedom to explore your loft.
Our range of loft ladders and attic ladders allow safe and easy access to extra storage space. We have a range of styles that typically either slide or fold up, meaning its out of the way of the floor space below. Make sure you’re getting maximum usage of your loft or attic with loft ladders from the very best manufacturers. These ladders can be purchased separately to loft hatches, giving you the freedom to shop around for the perfect hatch that will fit your brand new ladder.
The fittings are modified sleek and durable stainless steel hardware from Q-railing. The nearly vertical railing attaches securely to the second-floor railing with cable infill, so you can make a safe transition on and off the stairs.
Richlite is an incredibly durable, extremely versatile and highly sustainable material made from resin-infused paper. Yes, it’s superstrengthified paper! It was originally developed over 70 years ago for industrial tooling and pattern making. Today, its applications are impressively diverse. Richlite is a premium surface material. Some of it’s applications are in the aerospace, marine, action sports, culinary, architecture, and design industries. Machine shops and automotive manufacturers also use Richlite.At Meteek our goal is to provide custom design solutions that not only fit your life, but that fit challenging spaces as well. We had a great time finding solutions to this ladder-like stairway. We refitted the stringers with new treads and created a double railing based on the design of a ship’s ladder stairway (click here for more on ships and railings!).
What size ladder do I need for a loft?
To work out the correct height of loft ladder you will require, measure from the floor of your landing to the top of your roof joints, to the floor of your loft. Most loft ladders will reach up to 3m. Don’t forget to measure the dimensions of your loft hatch too, as you’ll need this information too.
Tucked away on the piney shores of Lake Vermilion is a family cabin with a design issue. The owners were frustrated by a steep stairway, reminiscent of a ladder to a sleeping loft. The handholds were inadequate and had a tendency to give one splinters.
Handmade from many layers of high quality custom craft paper, Richlite’s surface texture comes from the natural variation in the way fibers lay within the paper. We appreciate that it contains 65% FSC®-certified or recycled paper. The remaining 35% is phenolic resin. Richlite’s color comes from a combination of the paper and the tone of the resin. Richlite performs similarly to a dense hardwood.
Andy removed the original stairway, brought it back to Meteek and performed a few wonders. He replaced the stringers and removed the cleats beneath the stairs, creating a splinter-free zone. The steps themselves are durable Richlite. Handholds cut at the front of each stair make it an easy climb for children.
Meteek’s Andy Hoffman is a wizard when it comes to creating custom pieces. After carefully measuring the space, Andy crafted each piece in our shop and built the railings with all the twists and turns necessary for the small space. He transported the pieces back to the site and expertly assembled them to fit the of the upper railing. Brilliant!
A challenging space, innovative materials, and precision prefabbing… at Meteek, we construct the elements that express the uniqueness of your endeavors. Call us today—we are excited to hear from you!An alternating tread staircase is a type of steep, safety stair with a staggered step design. Alternating tread stairs have steep angles to save space. The staggered step design increases the usable tread depth to provide the user a full tread surface on each step. Since ships ladders have very narrow tread surface, they must typically be descended backwards like a vertical ladder. When backing down a ladder, OSHA requires that users use at least one hand for grasping and do not carry tools or items that can cause loss of balance. It helps to understand the a few of the most important design induced safety factors of stairway design as outlined in Chapter 13 of Fall Protection and Prevention: Principles, Guidelines, and Practices.Ship stairs and ship ladders (or ships ladder) are terms often used to mean the same type of device. OSHA uses the term ship stair while IBC uses the term ships ladder. The design requirements are the same for ship stairs as they are for ships ladders no matter the terminology.
When choosing between a standard stair, ship stair, or alternating tread stair, the most important consideration is safety. Which stair design is the safest?
Ship stair (ship ladder) means a stairway that is equipped with treads, stair rails, and open risers, and has a slope that is between 50 and 70 degrees from the horizontal.The results are clear. The alternating tread stair is the safer, more comfortable option when it comes to space saving stairs. If you have limited space and need a steep stair, choose the alternating tread stair. IBC section 1011.15 Ship Ladders states that ships ladders are permitted to be used in Group I-3 as a component of a means of egress to and from control rooms or elevated facility observation station not more than 250 square feet with not more than three occupants and for access to unoccupied roofs. OSHA defines Alternating tread-type stair as a type of stairway consisting of a series of treads that usually are attached to a center support in an alternating manner such that an employee typically does not have both feet on the same level while using the stairway.Ship stairs and ship ladders are addressed by both OSHA and IBC. OSHA uses the terms ship stair and ship ladder interchangeably while IBC uses the term ships ladder. OSHA requires that all ladders between 60 and 90 degrees be device-facing, so any ships ladder that is angled 60 degrees or steeper must be descended backing down.
IBC also allows an exception to IBC 1011.12 so that access to the roof from the top story is permitted to be by an alternating tread device, a ships ladder, or a permanent ladder. Also, the exception to IBC 1011.12.2 allows access to unoccupied roofs to be a roof hatch or trap door.
Alternating tread stairs use a staggered step design to increase tread depth at steep angles to save space. This design allows for a safer, face-forward descent down the stair.Alternating tread stairs, ships ladders, and ship stairs are all steep angled stair devices used in space-restricted applications. How do these devices differ from each other? OSHA and IBC define and set standards for the different designs of steep stairways. This guide will help you understand the different designs and code standards, and help you make the right decision in choosing the safest, code-compliant option.
Because alternating tread stairs have a full usable tread surface for each foot, the stairs are designed to be descended face-forward like a standard stair. They are not subject to the requirements of OSHA 1910.23 Ladders for facing the ladder (backing down the ladder) while climbing. The face-forward descent allows users to see in the direction of travel and more easily carry tools or items while descending.
Alternating tread stairs are legal to install and use in space-restricted areas under OSHA section 1910.25. Alternating tread-type stairs are used only when the employer can demonstrate that it is not feasible to provide standard stairs.
Another study by Virginia Tech Human Factors Engineering Laboratory demonstrated that alternating tread stairs had 72% fewer missteps than ship stairs and were preferred by users. The participants in that study also rated the alternating tread stairs higher for both safety and comfort during descent.
Alternating tread-type stair means a type of stairway consisting of a series of treads that usually are attached to a center support in an alternating manner such that an employee typically does not have both feet on the same level while using the stairway. Ship stairs shallower than 60 degrees can be designed as face-forward descent devices. However, because these devices have much shorter tread depth, walking down face-forward is very difficult and potentially unsafe for the user. Users are left with a very small tread surface for each foot causing a fall hazard. You can see that in this photo below. A key difference between a stair and a ladder is the way in which they are used. OSHA 1910.23 states the following requirements on employees using ladders.How ship stairs or ship ladders are designed to be descended is up to the designer or operator. Designers should consider that as stairs get steeper, tread depth shortens and becomes a major risk factor of stairway design. For standard ship stairs, a shallower angle is safer than a steep angle. Alternating tread stairs have the unused half of each tread removed to provide more tread depth at steeper angles. These are all considerations that should be factored into your next design.Ships ladders are steep angled stair devices with angles between 50 and 70 degrees. This is much steeper than the typical angle of stairs of 45 degrees per OSHA and 30-32 degrees per IBC. Because they are so steep, ships ladders have much less usable tread depth than a standard OSHA or IBC stair design.
Ships ladders shall have a minimum tread depth of 5 inches (127mm). The tread shall be projected such that the total of the tread depth plus the nosing projection is not less than 8 1/2 inches (216mm). The maximum riser height shall be 9 ½ inches (241 mm).2018 International Building Code (IBC) defines an Alternating tread device as a device that has a series of steps between 50 and 70 degrees from horizontal, usually attached to a center support rail in an alternating manner so that the user does not have both feet on the same level at the same time.The video demonstrates the difference in walking down an alternating tread stair next to a steep stair. The increased tread depth gives the user a complete surface to rest each step.
In the case of backing down ships ladders, employees should follow the same OSHA rules for descending ship ladders as for descending fixed ladders. Employees should use at least one hand to grasp the ladder while backing down and should not carry objects while climbing the ladder. A ship ladder angle is between 50 and 70 degrees. OSHA section 1910.25(e)(1) requires ship ladders to be installed at a slope of 50 to 70 degrees from the horizontal. Alternating tread devices shall have a minimum tread depth of 5 inches, a minimum projected tread depth of 8 1/2″, a minimum tread width of 7 inches, and a maximum riser height of 9 1/2.” The tread shall be measured horizontally between the vertical planes of the foremost projections of the adjacent treads. The riser height shall be measured vertically between the leading edges of adjacent treads. The riser height and tread depth shall result in an angle of ascent from the horizontal of between 50 and 70 degrees.
Alternating tread stairs are a type of ships ladder or ship stair device. They are used in applications with space constraints to save floor space. Typical applications for alternating tread stairs include conveyor and equipment access, work platforms, crossover stairs, and anywhere in a facility that does not have space for a standard stair design.
Many studies have demonstrated that narrow tread depth is a risk factor for stairways. A recent study measured the perceived difficulty in descent of stairways. This study, by Hisao Nagato, of the Ohara Memorial Institute for Science of Labor in Japan, looked at how difficult it was for users to descend stairways with varying tread depths. The result showed that stairs become increasingly difficult to descend as tread depth narrows. To measure the difficulty, the researchers used a metric called the Z-value, which increases as difficulty increases. Below is a chart showing the Z-values for different stair designs. Ship stairs were shown to have very high perceived difficulty while descending due to the short tread depth.The side mounted handrails also act as the guardrail fall protection for the device. Because they have an integrated side-mounted hand / guardrail, alternating tread stairs do not need to be used with fall arrest systems.
IBC uses the term ships ladder rather than the term ship stairs. IBC does not refer anywhere in the code to the term ship stair. The IBC code requirements for ship stairs is the same as for ships ladders.
IBC Section 1011.14 states that Alternating tread devices are limited to an element of a means of egress in buildings of Groups F, H, and S from a mezzanine not more then 250 square feet in area and that serves not more than five occupants; in buildings of Group I-3 from a guard tower, observation station or control room not more than 250 square feet in area and for access to unoccupied roofs.
The two most common types of steep angled stair devices for space constrained applications are alternating tread stairs and ship stairs or ships ladders.
The side mounted handrails also act as the guardrail fall protection for the device. Because they have an integrated side-mounted hand / guardrail, ships ladders do not need to be used with fall arrest systems.
From this chart, you can see that standard stairs have the most tread depth, followed by alternating tread stairs, followed by spiral stairs, then ship stairs.Stairways, ship stairs, and alternating tread stairs are not subject to these requirements. Stairways and alternating tread stairs can both be descended face forward in the direction of travel. Some ship stairs can be descended face forward depending on how steep the angle. The angles of ship stairs and ladders overlap between 60 and 70 degrees. Ship stairs can be as steep as 70 degrees, while ladders can be as shallow as 60 degrees.
What is a marine ladder?
A boat ladder is a boat accessory that allows boaters to more easily move off, on and around their boats. They typically extend from the hull or swim platform to-or-under the water line and can be permanently mounted to your boat or added as a retractable/non-permanent installation.
As mentioned above it is always preferable to have someone on the ground helping you, even if you only think it is going to be a quick job, it\u2019s always better to be safe than sorry. You should always have three points of contact on any ladder and when ascending or descending a loft ladder is no exception. If you find yourself carrying an item that requires both hands then would suggest to instead tag team with someone else and either pass the item down to the person on the floor, alternatively have the person on the ground pass the item up to eliminate any scenario where someone is having to ascend or descend the loft ladder without having three points of contact.Before climbing into your loft, ensure there are no visible cracks, dents or damage to the ladder before you start to use it. If carrying heavy items up and down from the loft, take into account the weight loading of your loft ladder. Maximum weight loads for loft ladders include the user and whatever tools or items they are carrying. Take care when lifting objects in and out of the loft. Should a fall occur, this means the weight of the item you are carrying is also likely to fall on top of you as well.
Whenever you go up into the loft always ensure that you have a light source with you. Even if it is just your phone (just make sure you don’t forget it up there). Obviously brighter is better and a dedicated, permanent light source is preferable but any light source is better than nothing to help prevent any trips and falls and to make your job easier.
Shop our range of fixed vertical ladders. Vertical ladders are a safe and practical solution for a number of applications for the maintenance and access on buildings. We offer a range of fixed vertical ladders that can be customised to your requirements. This includes, walkthrough, parapet and safety cage which is recommended over 3m. When vertical ladders are over 10m a resting platform is requiredIf you want to make sure your loft ladder will fit your dimensions and space available then be sure to take full advantage of our custom-built loft ladder finder to guarantee a perfect fit. Simply enter your dimensions and get instant results.
Whenever you go up into the loft always ensure that you have a light source with you. Even if it is just your phone (just make sure you don\u2019t forget it up there). Obviously brighter is better and a dedicated, permanent light source is preferable but any light source is better than nothing to help prevent any trips and falls and to make your job easier.
Loft ladders can often be overlooked when it comes to ladder safety as it is stored away out of sight and only used once or twice a year. People assume that a loft ladder will always be safe and ready to use, but this is not always the case. You must always check the condition of the ladder before every use.
How to safely access a loft?
Loft Ladder Safety- 5 precautionary tips when using ladders:Wobbly Loft Ladders Equal a Red Flag. Even though most lofts get used infrequently (if only used as a storage space), loft ladder safety should not be taken lightly. … Always Maintain 3 Points of Contact. … Don’t Overload the Loft Ladder. … Wear Suitable Footwear.
Ladderstore prides itself on being the specialists at working at height, which allows us to have one of the most extensive ranges of loft ladders online. If you are looking for a loft ladder with a hatch, a telescopic loft ladder or folding loft stairs we have you covered.
With the festive period nearly upon us and the yearly trip up to the loft just a couple of weeks away, we must make sure we are not putting ourselves in any unnecessary danger, besides we are sure that nobody wants to have an accident so close to Christmas.
If our full range of loft ladders is rather daunting. Then take a look over our best sellers. If you are still feeling unsure, then why not give one of our experts a ring? On 01204 590 232.Does everyone in the house know you are going up into the loft and what for? You want to inform everyone in the house you are going in the loft should you have an accident, this also ensures that no one is going to accidentally lock you in or cause an obstacle for when you are coming down. It is also best to have someone to help you at the bottom of the loft ladder to ensure it is always safe for you to climb out and help carry down anything that requires two hands.No matter what ladder you are using you should always make sure you are aware of your surroundings and ensure people around you know what you are doing.
As mentioned above it is always preferable to have someone on the ground helping you, even if you only think it is going to be a quick job, it’s always better to be safe than sorry. You should always have three points of contact on any ladder and when ascending or descending a loft ladder is no exception. If you find yourself carrying an item that requires both hands then would suggest to instead tag team with someone else and either pass the item down to the person on the floor, alternatively have the person on the ground pass the item up to eliminate any scenario where someone is having to ascend or descend the loft ladder without having three points of contact.
Ready to discuss your next project? One of our design consultants will be in touch soon to set up a time to chat with you and/or your contractor about your project details and timeline!When little space is available, ship ladder stairs are the way to go. They are compact, safe, and easy to maneuver, making a ladder that is both stylish and convenient. It is no wonder that ship ladders are most commonly used for lofts, balconies, attics, or basements.
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Buying a loft ladder makes accessing your extra storage space a lot easier and safer. The ladder which you ultimately end up buying is going to depend on your personal preference, space available to you and how often you intend on using it. So, let’s take a look at your options!
High-quality timber loft ladders usually come with a frame and a loft hatch attached, ready to be installed to your loft opening. They will contain locks which hold the ladder in either a closed or locked position and are usually ‘sprung’ to make them lower or raise. You will be required to make your loft hatch the size needed to fir your ladder, however, most have different hatch sizes that you can choose from to suit your specific dimensions.
These type of loft ladders are great for saving space and bring a good balance of form and function. They look fantastic and can fit into most loft hatches, even the smallest of sizes. The standout benefit of using a telescopic loft ladder is their outstanding value, as their simple design results in a much more attractive price.
Are loft ladders safe?
Loft ladders can often be overlooked when it comes to ladder safety as it is stored away out of sight and only used once or twice a year. People assume that a loft ladder will always be safe and ready to use, but this is not always the case. You must always check the condition of the ladder before every use.
So, these are the different types of loft ladders available for you to choose from to gain access to your loft. Whichever one you choose will be determined by a variety of factors, none more so than personal preference and needs. Here at SLG, we supply our very own range of ladders that include some of the variations mentioned up. These are fully adjustable, coming in three different lengths and host of other beneficial features. You can browse our collection below! If you are interested on any one of our loft ladders and would like to speak to a member of our team regarding a purchase or would like to learn more about a particular product for your loft, then please do not hesitate to get in touch with us today. When it comes to picking the right type of loft ladder, we know how hard it can be. There are several factors that you need to take into consideration, such the size of your loft entrance, the distance of your entrance from the ground and the functionalities that you’d like and expect from the ladder. To make things a little easier for you, we run through the different types of loft ladders that are available to you and provide a brief breakdown of each. Folding loft ladders are another, highly-popular type of ladder that is used by households to access their loft as a result of their simplicity. Here, the ladder simply folds up, usually in two or three sections which end up stacked on top of each other on the left hatch once fully closed. By far the most popular and practical option used by homeowners is the timber folding ladder, due to their quieter, smoother and more secure nature in comparison to aluminium loft ladders. The latter can sometimes ‘bend’ or ‘flex’ as you stand on a and climb up them which can be quite concerning for some. Electric loft ladders are another type of ladder that you can install to access your loft. These are available in two different forms; semi-automatic and fully electric and tend to work in the same way as folding loft ladders, albeit via remote control.
What is the difference between a ship ladder and a ladder?
The angles of ship stairs and ladders overlap between 60 and 70 degrees. Ship stairs can be as steep as 70 degrees, while ladders can be as shallow as 60 degrees. Ship stairs shallower than 60 degrees can be designed as face-forward descent devices.
Unlike the typical ship ladder design, the alternating tread stair has a reduced riser height, longer run, and of course, alternating steps. This type of stair saves space and allows you to travel down the staircase facing forward, whereas the angle and treads of ship ladder stairs limit you to descending the stairs backwards using it more like a ladder (hence the name!).
What type of ladder do you use to access a loft?
sliding loft ladders By far the simplest ladders to install and use to access your loft are sliding loft ladders. These are usually attached to the joists inside your loft and tend to come as two or three-section ladders.
Our custom ship ladder designs typically have a riser height between 9″ to 11″ and a tread run between 3.5″ to 5.5″. You can choose from any type of railing, or opt for hand-grip cutouts in the stringers themselves to provide extra stability when on the ship ladder.
Since ship ladders are very sharp angled stairs, we recommend having a handrail on both sides for ease of use, or safety railings that come up to the full height of a normal balcony rail. “The custom-made wood and metal ship’s ladder for my loft arrived with amazing quality – strong, perfectly rendered and lovely. During the ordering process, the ability to speak to the designer was invaluable. And Michelle provided outstanding communications and support throughout the process.” Since the treads alternate, this stair is not considered to be as safe as a standard ship ladder or spiral stair. You must go down the staircase according to its pattern. We only make these stairs in our shop upon special request, so please give us a call if you would like to discuss your options.
What is a ship's ladder called?
Today, flat runged flexible ladders are also called Jacob’s ladders. The name is commonly used without the apostrophe (Jacobs ladder). They are used to allow access over the side of ships and as a result Pilot ladders are often incorrectly referred to as Jacob’s ladders.
This part stair, part ladder design is the perfect way to maximize space in your home. Offering you a stable staircase to get you from one floor to the next while taking up very little real estate is what makes this design so popular. Not to mention that we make it really easy to customize your ship ladder to your exact style and needs. Take a look through some of our past work to get a feel for what you could create for your own space!
At Acadia Stairs, we offer custom staircase designs for any type of home. We have spiral stairs for grand, traditional homes, and straight stairs for the modern, contemporary home. But for the small spaces of a home, like your lofts and attics, we have our ship ladders. Combining functionality with an open, airy look, our ship ladder stairs will fit in perfectly, no matter the size or shape of the room. Save even more space by adding a two-directional sliding bracket to your ship ladder. This will allow you to slide your ship ladder back to the wall and then to the side to get it completely out of the way. Therefore to understand if a ship ladder meets the size and clearance requirements of the 2018 International Residential Code (IRC), we need to look at Section R311.7.12.
What is a safe angle for a loft ladder?
61 degrees The loft ladder standard covers topics like having a minimum weight capacity of 150kg, the angle of the ladder must be at an angle of 61 degrees so it is not too steep while climbing, the steps of the ladder must be within a particular distance of each other.
For adequate safety to be provided for the user, unlike conventional stairs that only requires a handrail at one side, ship ladders require handrails at both sides due to its steepness.Treads shall have a depth of not less than 5 inches. The tread shall be projected such that the total of the tread depth plus the noising projection is not less than 8-1/2 inches.Although this type of stair system might be difficult to use, it is only allowed where the space it serves is provided with an egress compliant stairway or ramp, or if the space it serves does not require a means of egress.A ship ladder is another type of stair system that the code provides guidance on. However when provided it is very clear that the code does not allow ship ladders to be used in-lieu of conventional stairs as a means of egress. However the space must not provide exclusive access to a kitchen or bathroom. Meaning that if the loft, mezzanine, or space contains or provides the only access to a kitchen or bathroom, it cannot be used as a means of egress and another egress compliant stair must be provided. When it comes to the height, it differs from conventional stair handrails. The top of the handrail must be located not less than 30 inches and not more than 34 inches when measured vertically above the imaginary line connecting the leading edge of the treads.
As for the handrail projection, clearance, and grip size, this section refers you to the conventional staircase handrail standards found in Section R311.7.8.2 through R311.7.8.6. To graphically see what this looks like be sure to check out this POST.
So this basically sums up the basic code requirements for ship ladders within residential dwelling units that are subject to the International Residential Code (IRC).
When ship ladders are installed within an individual dwelling unit, the International Residential Code (IRC) provides some guidelines as to the width, riser, tread, and handrail requirements.It is important to note that there is an exception in the code that does allow a ship ladder to be used as a means of egress only if the space it serves is a loft, mezzanine, or similar area that is 200 gross square feet or less.
How steep should a loft ladder be?
The angle of the ladder (61 degrees when deployed, to prevent it from becoming too steep) The potential of the rungs to bend under pressure. The width between the stiles or handrails. Its descent control (to prevent it from injuring someone by extending too quickly)
Handrails shall be provided on both sides of ship ladders and shall comply with Section R311.7.8.2 to R311.7.8.6. Handrail height shall be uniform, not less than 30 inches and not more than 34 inches.Most boat ladders are made using one of two primary materials, stainless steel or rope. Stainless steel boat ladders feature rungs with non-slip rubber coverings that extend 3-4 steps down from a disembarking point on your boat. Rope grab ladders feature rungs made from a variety of materials. We use PlasTEAK recycled plastic lumber rungs with centrally located grab rings that allow boaters to grab the ladder securely without fear of pinched fingers or scraped knuckles.A boat ladder is a boat accessory that allows boaters to more easily move off, on and around their boats. They typically extend from the hull or swim platform to-or-under the water line and can be permanently mounted to your boat or added as a retractable/non-permanent installation.
Boat ladders can be installed in several locations around your boat. They can be placed over the gunwale, installed on top of your swim platform, under your swim platform, or in the case of grab ladders, stationed in convenient spots where boaters can easily pull themselves up over the hull of the boat.
Wood ladders are available in an impressive selection of natural hardwoods: Alder, Birch, Cherry, Mahogany, Maple, Red Oak, White Oak, or Walnut (Other woods by request). Wood loft access ladders may be unfinished, have a clear gloss or satin finish, or be colored with a Minwax stain.Functional and contemporary aluminum library and loft ladders are available in either natural milled aluminum or with a powdercoat finish. Earth-friendly powdercoat finishes are also available. Wood loft ladders are assembled with steel rods and plated steel braces for maximum comfort and strength. Each ladder incorporates a blind mounted grab bar on the top rung, and a reinforced, oversized bottom step for additional strength and safety. We have been ordering ladders from Alaco for over a decade. Alaco has the best variety of wood and stain options available to us that best coordinate with our full product line. We have been very pleased with their level of product quality, customer service, and consistent lead times.A wide variety of metallic and enamel finishes are available for the ladder hardware. Hardware may be finished to blend in with the ladder or to contrast as a design element.
Fixed Loft Ladders are designed for use with lofts with a single access point, and are permanently affixed to the wall with sturdy brackets for fast and easy access.Rolling Track Loft Ladders roll along sturdy metal track for easy access to any section of a loft. Track can be installed along a single wall or can connect multiple walls via curved corner track sections.
What are the different types of ship ladders?
Pilot Ladders & Embarkation Ladders. The pilot ladder and the embarkation ladder are both mandatory marine safety equipment on vessels. However, there are some differences between these two ladders.
I just received our Alaco Ladder and I must say it is beautiful – great craftsmanship and nice design. It was easy to setup and install. It adds the perfect aesthetic and functionality to the loft above the kitchen in my Florida Keys-style bungalow.Although every loft ladder produced by Alaco is custom-crafted to specific needs and applications, the use of common features and components provides design flexibility as well as both cost savings and construction efficiency. Alaco loft ladders combine the strength and engineering of an industrial ladder with designer good looks, and are the perfect addition to any room, garage, or workspace with a loft. They offer the perfect blend of form and function Environmentally friendly, attractive, and durable powdercoat finishes produce no VOCs or heavy metals and are extremely energy-efficient in production. Each powdercoat finish is applied using top-quality thermoset powdercoatings to provide maximum durability and protection from scratching, corrosion, and sunlight. Seven standard powdercoat finishes are available, and custom colors may be available on request.For decades, Alaco has been designing and building aluminum ladders for heavy industry with very precise specifications and safety requirements, so Alaco aluminum loft access ladders offer an impressive combination of safety, strength, and design.
Alaco loft access ladders are available in an impressive selection of natural hardwoods or in aluminum with powdercoat finishes—along with a variety of hardware finishes to complement any ladder style.
Perfect for loft areas where access space is limited, permanently fixed Pivotal Loft Ladders fold against the wall when not in use for convenient and compact storage.Functional and contemporary aluminum loft ladders are available in either a natural milled finish or in 7 attractive and durable powdercoat finishes. Custom colors may be available on request.
