GRP ladders or glass reinforced plastic pultruded steps are commonly known as fiberglass steps. They come in many designs and sizes. They have become extremely popular in various industries because of their many advantages.
The advantages of using GRP steps are as follows: They are corrosion resistant. Therefore they last longer.
They are easy to maintain.
They are light and easily maneuverable, but the composite construction lends a high degree of structural strength to these ladders.
They are non conductive, thermally stable. Hence possibilities of accidents are significantly lowered. Unlike aluminum ladders, they do not conduct electricity. Hence they are safe to use around power lines.
GRP stairs are manufactured from materials created to highest standards. Natural material like wood are not only heavy, they may also not be equally durable. Aluminum stairs have better quality assurance than wood, but the cheap quality can be damaged under pressure. As far as durability and strength goes, GRP ladders are definitely the top of the class.
GRP steps can withstand bad weather easily and are flame and electricity resistant. Unlike a wooden ladder, a GRP stairs will not rot if it is exposed to the elements. They do not even absorb moisture. Since they are flame resistant, they are used by firefighters. Aluminum is flame resistant, but since it is a good conductor, the ladder may become electrified from the water used in putting out the fire. So, GRP ladders are used.
Finally, in most cases you can get GRP steps manufactured according to your specifications.
Because of the above advantages, GRP stairs have found vast application in such industries like paints, chemicals, power, petrochemical, waste treatment plants and many others.
You can get different designs of GRP ladders as per your requirements. Some of the major types have been described here:
The standard ladder is one which is straight and the length can be made to vary according to your specifications. They often come with foot and wall brackets to hold them in position. These ladders are perfect for narrow spaces like if you have to insert it in a manhole.
The safety ladder is one where the ladder comes with an enclosing cage on the top and sides. Such safety regulations are mandatory if the ladder is more than 2.5m high, but can be attached to lower ladders also.
In some cases you may find GRP ladders with walkthrough tops. These are specially modified ladders where the top has been widened to allow you easy access. Often the top part of such a ladder has safety cages while the last step widens out. Such a ladder is extremely handy when you want to get on a high platform with handrails.
