Key Differences Between an Industrial and Domestic Ladder

Date Posted:5 March 2025 

Explore the crucial distinctions between industrial and domestic ladders, from material strength to load capacity, to ensure you make the right choice for your workplace.

What is the Difference Between an Industrial and Domestic Ladder?

Ladders are essential tools for both professional and home use, providing safe access to elevated areas. Whether you're working on a construction site or completing household maintenance, choosing the right ladder is crucial for safety and efficiency.

Industrial ladders are designed for heavy-duty tasks, built with robust materials to withstand rigorous use. They often feature enhanced stability, higher weight capacities, and non-slip surfaces for added safety.

On the other hand, domestic ladders are ideal for everyday tasks around the home like changing lightbulbs, general cleaning, or DIY projects.

Understanding the differences between these ladders helps ensure you select the right one for your needs, balancing durability, portability, and safety.

 

Key Features of Industrial Ladders

Industrial ladders are designed for different applications, with 3 key differences compared to domestic ladders:

  1. Strength - Industrial ladders are built for heavy-duty use, commonly made from robust materials like aluminium or fibreglass to withstand tough environments.

  2. Durability - They often feature wider steps, reinforced frames, and anti-slip surfaces to ensure safety on construction sites, warehouses, and factories. Learn more about what is access equipment and how they benefit industrial workplaces.

  3. Load capacity - The most significant distinction is the minimum load rating—industrial ladders must support at least 120kg according to the Australian standard for ladders, while domestic ladders have a lower rating of 100kg and are clearly marked for domestic use.

 

Key Features of Domestic Ladders

Domestic ladders, on the other hand, are generally lighter and compact in size.

This makes them ideal for household tasks such as changing lightbulbs or accessing storage spaces. While they are designed for convenience and portability, they lack the reinforced structure of industrial models.

Selecting the right ladder depends on the intended use—industrial ladders for demanding work environments and domestic ladders for everyday home maintenance.

 

Common Types of Ladders Used in Industrial Workplaces

Industrial workplaces require a variety of ladders designed for safety, stability, and efficiency.

Choosing the right ladders and access equipment depends on the task at hand, whether it’s accessing high storage, performing maintenance, or ensuring worker safety. Here are some of the most used ladders in industrial settings:

Step Ladders

Step ladders are one of the most versatile options, featuring a self-supporting A-frame design.

They are commonly used in warehouses, factories, and workshops where workers need stable access to mid-range heights.

With non-slip steps and a sturdy frame, they provide excellent support without the need to lean against a structure.

To transport heavy goods and materials from shipping containers, trucks and ships, we have options in container and yard ramps.

Platform Ladders

Platform ladders offer an extra level of safety and comfort, featuring a spacious standing platform at the top. These ladders are ideal for tasks requiring extended standing, such as stocktaking, equipment repairs, or assembly line work.

The large platform reduces foot fatigue and enhances stability, making them a preferred choice for many industries.

For reaching harder to access areas and elevated workspaces, consider our range of work platforms and crane cages.

Step Stools

Step stools are compact and lightweight, perfect for quick access to slightly elevated areas. Commonly used in offices, warehouses, and retail settings, they provide a stable base for reaching shelves or performing light-duty tasks.

Industrial-grade step stools are designed with non-slip surfaces and reinforced construction for added durability. See our selection of ladders and step stools to suit your workplace environment.

Extension Ladders

Extension ladders are essential for reaching significant heights, commonly used in construction, electrical work, and exterior building maintenance. These ladders can be adjusted to different heights by extending their sections, allowing workers to safely reach rooftops, ceilings, and tall equipment.

They require a stable structure for support and often come with safety locks to prevent slipping.

Folding Ladders

Folding ladders offer versatility with multiple configurations, including A-frame, extension, and stairway positions. They are highly valued in industrial environments for their adaptability, making them suitable for a range of tasks. Their compact, foldable design also ensures easy storage and transport.

Each of these ladders serves a specific purpose in industrial workplaces, ensuring workers can perform their tasks efficiently and safely. Selecting the right ladder enhances productivity while maintaining workplace safety standards.

 

How to Use Ladders Safely

Using ladders correctly is essential for preventing workplace injuries.

In summary, you should follow these key safety guidelines to ensure stability and minimise risks.

  • One person at a time – A ladder is designed to support a single user. Overloading can cause instability and increase the risk of falls.

  • Maintain three points of contact – Always have two hands and one foot, or two feet and one hand, on the ladder to ensure balance and support.

  • Face forward when climbing – Always ascend and descend facing the ladder, using the rungs for secure footing. Avoid twisting your body while climbing.

  • Keep your body centred – Maintain your weight within the ladder’s side rails. Overreaching can cause the ladder to tip over.

By following these precautions, workers can use ladders safely and reduce the risk of accidents in industrial and domestic settings.

For more information, see our guidelines for safe ladder use in industrial settings.

 

Final Thoughts on Industrial vs Domestic Ladders

Choosing the right ladder and using it safely is essential for both workplace and home environments. Depending on if you need a sturdy industrial ladder for demanding tasks or a lightweight domestic ladder for household use, selecting the right type ensures efficiency and safety.

More importantly, following best practices, such as maintaining three points of contact and keeping your body centred, you can minimise risks and improve productivity.

At Verdex, we offer a wide range of high-quality industrial and domestic ladders to suit your needs. If you're unsure which ladder is right for your workplace or project, our team is here to help. Get in touch today for expert advice, request a free quote, or call us on 1800 750 500 to discuss your requirements.

 

FAQs

Can you use domestic ladders in the workplace?

Domestic ladders are not recommended for workplace use as they have a lower load rating (100kg) and are designed for light-duty tasks. Industrial ladders, rated at 120kg or more, meet workplace safety standards and provide better durability, stability, and strength for demanding environments. Always use the right ladder for the job.

What is the Australian standard for ladders?

In Australia, ladders must comply with AS/NZS 1892 standards, which outline safety requirements for portable ladders, including materials, load ratings, and design specifications (see our blog on the Australian Standard for ladders). Industrial ladders must support at least 120kg, while domestic ladders must meet a 100kg rating. Always check compliance markings before purchasing or using a ladder.

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