Introduction
In manufacturing, construction, and logistics sites in Vietnam, the storage and transport of ladders and stepladders are often overlooked. However, daily handling practices can extend their service life by up to three times and significantly reduce the risk of accidents. Deterioration from direct sunlight and moisture, as well as impacts and drops during transport, can be almost entirely prevented with proper storage environments and transport methods. This article introduces “specific measures for longevity” that on-site managers can easily implement, along with “actual failure examples and improvement measures.”
Storage Pitfalls and Optimal Solutions
Material-Specific Deterioration Caused by Outdoor Storage
Ladders and stepladders left outdoors without proper storage measures rapidly deteriorate differently depending on the material, due to the effects of rainwater, direct sunlight, and temperature changes. Aluminum develops white rust on its surface, and corrosion leads to loose joints and reduced strength. For FRP (Fiber Reinforced Plastic), long-term exposure to UV rays makes the resin brittle, leading to fine cracks and fiber exposure. Steel rusts quickly, causing not only an increase in weight but also a significant decrease in structural strength. This deterioration is a direct cause of serious accidents, such as loss of balance or breakage during use.
Source: Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare, Anzen Project Website
Environmental Conditions for Indoor/Under-Roof Storage
The ideal storage environment is indoors or under a roof where humidity can be maintained at 40-60% and the temperature between 0-40°C. This prevents corrosion of metal parts and deterioration of resin parts due to condensation, leading to long-term performance retention. A roof and walls with light-blocking and waterproof properties are necessary to prevent the intrusion of direct sunlight and rainwater. Ensuring ventilation is also crucial, as trapped moisture can cause premature deterioration of non-slip rubber and adhesive parts. When storing, adjust the legs to ensure they are evenly grounded, and use racks or hanging storage to prevent distortion and excessive loads. This allows for both structural stability and extended service life.
Source: JIS S1121 Storage Standards for Ladders / Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare, Anzen Project Website
Safety and Efficiency in Transport
Transport Risks as Seen in Accident Data
“Ladders, etc.” are a major cause of fall and tumble accidents, with an average of about 30 fatalities per year between 2011 and 2015. Fractures account for a high rate of injuries at approximately 68.6%, characterized by their tendency to become severe. Regarding the circumstances of accidents, for stepladders, 70.4% occur “while working on them,” 19.4% “when descending,” and 7.9% “when ascending.” A typical example is falling from a loss of balance while ascending or descending carrying a load. During transport and handling, the risk of contact and secondary accidents increases due to fewer points of contact and restricted visibility. It is effective to standardize the thorough implementation of three-point support with both hands free, transport of long items by two or more people, and the use of auxiliary tools such as dollies, shoulder belts, and protective covers.
Source: Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare, Tokyo Labour Bureau “Let’s Eliminate Fall and Tumble Accidents from Ladders and Stepladders!” (PDF) / National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health, Japan “Analysis of Occupational Accidents Caused by Stepladders”
Items to Reduce Burden & Prevent Damage
Side covers and top plate cushions are effective in preventing damage to stepladders and surrounding equipment during transport and storage. Many products have moderate hardness and shock absorption, and can be opened and closed while attached, without compromising work efficiency. Stepladders integrated with dollies reduce physical strain during long-distance transport, decreasing the burden on the lower back and shoulders. Shoulder belts allow for free use of both hands, ensuring three-point support while moving safely. By appropriately combining auxiliary items, both safety and work efficiency can be improved simultaneously.
Source: MonotaRO “Stepladder Transport Supplies Feature” / Hasegawa Kogyo Official Support Page
5 Practical Techniques to Prevent Deterioration
- Avoid Direct Sunlight and Rainwater for Storage: UV rays and moisture are major causes of metal corrosion and resin deterioration. Always store indoors or under a roof.
- Monthly Inspection of Non-slip Pads and Joints: Regularly check for rubber wear, loose screws, cracks, and corrosion. Replace immediately if any abnormalities are found.
- Use Protective Covers During Transport: Prevents contact damage and protects the product itself.
- Transport Long Items with Two or More People: Working alone increases the risk of losing balance or collision. Always communicate and assign roles.
- Mandatory Use of Securing Belts When Transporting by Vehicle: Prevents tipping and deformation due to vibrations and sudden stops during transit. Also, check belts for wear.
Source: Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare, Tokyo Labour Bureau “Let’s Eliminate Fall and Tumble Accidents from Ladders and Stepladders!” / Hasegawa Kogyo Official Support Page
On-site Failure Examples and Improvement Measures
A stepladder left directly on the ground outdoors for a long period had its legs and joints rust, reducing its strength, which led to an accident where a leg broke during use, causing a fall. There are also cases where, by carrying it alone without using a securing belt during transport, it came into contact with walls and products in a narrow passage, causing scratches and damage. As improvement measures, it is effective to codify storage rules (enforce indoor rack storage, require waterproof covers for outdoor use) and standardize the use of dedicated transport equipment such as side covers, top plate cushions, and shoulder belts. This achieves both extended lifespan and accident prevention.
Source: Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare, Tokyo Labour Bureau “Let’s Eliminate Fall and Tumble Accidents from Ladders and Stepladders!” / MonotaRO “Stepladder Transport Supplies Feature”
Hasegawa’s Strengths and Support
Hasegawa has established a strict quality inspection system compliant with JIS standards, ISO9001, TCVN, etc., and thoroughly checks the strength, durability, and safety of products before shipment. To prevent on-site accidents, we conduct “Safe Transport Workshops” to educate on correct carrying and storage methods. We also accommodate custom manufacturing tailored to site conditions, such as long-length, lightweight models, and chemical-resistant specifications. Through these efforts, we achieve both improved work efficiency and safety for our customers.
Source: Hasegawa Kogyo Official Support Page
Conclusion
The storage and transport of ladders and stepladders are critical management practices that determine their safety and lifespan. Small efforts such as storing them away from direct sunlight and moisture, using protective gear and auxiliary tools, and conducting regular inspections and cleaning lead to the prevention of serious accidents and cost reduction. Sharing and enforcing rules throughout the entire site is the most reliable way to enhance both work efficiency and safety simultaneously.