Mark Robson, Product Manager at WernerCo, shares the manufacturer’s top tips on approaching different decorating tasks, and the best equipment which can be used to carry them out successfully.
As a painter and decorator, you never know what the next job may entail, so it is essential to have all bases covered when it comes to tools and equipment. Keeping your van stocked with everything you need will ensure you can complete any decorating job as safely and efficiently as possible, no matter the task.
For versatility: Multi-purpose ladders
Ladders are traditionally used by painters and decorators for a variety of different applications. Multipurpose ladders are a versatile choice for professionals, which provide efficiency and variety of use for a wide range of tasks, such as painting the exterior of a property, stairs, or any other part of the property which requires access to reach.
Offering multiple products in one, multipurpose ladders provide a cost-effective solution when it comes to purchasing equipment, as well as allowing users to save valuable space in the back of a van, and time loading and unloading equipment.
Werner’s LEANSAFE X3 allows users to change seamlessly from a step to a leaning ladder in one easy adjustment, enabling the ladder to be used securely against walls and flat surfaces, external and internal corners, poles and wall studs, as well as having the ability to perform as a standard stepladder or extension ladder; allowing users to use one single piece of equipment for a variety of different applications.
For more information, visit: Combination Ladders | Werner UK (wernerco.com)
For extra working space at height: Platform Stepladders
Often, painters and decorators are required to carry out jobs from height which require a wider working space. When the Work at Height Regulations 2005 prohibits overstretching or standing above a ladder’s recommended working height, choosing the correct product for the job is essential for carrying out work safely.
When it comes to painting wide surfaces areas at height, Stepladders with platforms offer a durable solution which feature a large platform to stand on, providing more comfort and stability for the user and helping to eliminate the risk of falling due to overstretching.
Werner’s range of platform stepladders offer users a wide platform which allows for free movement and increased reach when working at height, and also offer handrails for additional stability, which in turn, helps users to reduce the risk of accidents.
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For low level access: Work Platforms
Painters and decorators usually work to tight timescales and are required to move around a working space regularly. With this in mind, time spent moving equipment should always be taken into consideration, and professionals should ensure they invest in products which are lightweight, easy to set up and dismantle, and easy to transport – all the while, providing the right access for the job at hand.
Despite the height that ladders offer, there are other products available on the market which might be better suited to individual jobs. Work platforms are a great piece of equipment which meet the requirements needed to carry out jobs at low-level height, such as painting indoor walls. With height adjustability and a wide working space, work platforms can also be used for painting stairs, thanks to their ability to flatten their legs.
Werner’s Adjustable & Linking Platform PRO Platform offers users both the height adjustment of a traditional platform height of up to 0.76m, but also combines the option of linking multiple platforms together; meaning users can double, triple, or even quadruple the working surface, allowing them plenty of room to manoeuvre, as well as save time due to not having to step on and off the platform to move it around the working space.
Click Work Platforms | Werner UK (wernerco.com) to find out more.
For additional convenience: Handy accessories
Painting and decorating involves working at height with your hands full, which can often be time consuming and dangerous. Users run the increased risk of accidents due to imbalance, as well as having to spend unnecessary time and labour making trips up and down a ladder.
Professionals should always make use of handy ladder accessories, which have been designed to provide convenience on the job. Werner offers a range of Lock-In accessories which include paint cups, paint cup liners, job buckets, job caddies and utility buckets. This helps users to increase their productivity by having the tools needed to hand, saving unnecessary trips up and down the ladder, enabling them to carry out the job safely.
When it comes to approaching tasks while on a job, it is vital that rather than taking a ‘one size fits all’ approach, professionals instead give careful consideration to the needs of the task at hand, and which pieces of equipment will provide them with the best means in which to carry out the task safely. In giving this consideration, professionals can not only work as efficiently as possible, but also take proactive steps in maintaining best practice and in turn, help to reduce the risk of injury.
For further information on WernerCo visit: World Leader In Ladders | Werner UK (wernerco.com).
