The purpose of an industrial crossover ladder is to provide a safe elevated pathway across obstacles or gaps that would otherwise require workers to descend and navigate around them. This reduces risk and saves workaround time that can lead to error. A quality industrial crossover ladder should have a high load capacity to handle the weight of users and any equipment or materials they carry. It should also have handrails on both sides for stability. Ladders and crossover platforms should be regularly inspected for safety issues like damage, loose connections, or worn non-slip surfaces.
Crossover ladders are often used to bridge conveyor systems, pipes, machinery or equipment in industrial settings such as power plants, oil and gas facilities, transportation and logistics centers and more. When space is limited, a conveyor crossover ladder offers an affordable and easy to install solution that enhances workplace productivity without compromising worker safety.
When choosing a crossover ladder, look for a manufacturer that designs and manufactures them to specific safety standards. This ensures the platform meets OSHA Occupational Safety and Health Administration and ANSI American National Standards Institute requirements. It should also be durable enough to withstand the stress of frequent use.
While it is possible to find inexpensive ladders and crossovers, the tradeoff in durability and stability will be negligible. Low-quality ladders may break or bend, leading to a hazardous workspace that puts employees at risk of falling or injury. A top-quality platform, on the other hand, is designed and built with commercial applications in mind and will stand up to years of regular use and abuse.
Ladders and platforms can be configured to meet your specific space requirements, with different heights and clearance available depending on your needs. For instance, if you need to cross a pipe or other obstacle at less than 9’ of linear clearance, you can bolt three ladders together in a series with tower supports for a quick and affordable custom solution. For higher clearances, you can combine multiple platforms and add tower support to span longer distances.
To maximize the value of your new crossover, consider the frequency with which you’ll be using it. For frequent use, a stair design may be more comfortable and ergonomic than ladder variants. For high-traffic areas, a ladder crossover may be more suitable. Also, consider the size and type of conveyable materials being transported. Lastly, make sure the platform is tall enough to avoid interference with the conveyor system. If you’re not sure how to configure the right crossover for your environment, contact our experts at ErectaStep to learn more about our customizable solutions that fit your unique requirements and budget. We can design a system for you that will satisfy OSHA compliance, boost productivity and eliminate costly workarounds. Get started with a free quote!