The Little Giant Ladder System is a versatile, multi-functional ladder designed for a variety of uses, including A-frame, extension, stairwell, and scaffolding trestle configurations. It is constructed from aircraft-grade aluminum, featuring slip-resistant rungs on both inner and outer assemblies, and slip-resistant feet on both inner and outer assemblies for enhanced safety. The ladder system is available in several models with varying storage, A-frame, and extension heights:
- Model 13: Storage 3'7", A-frame 3'0" to 5'0", Extension 7'0" to 11'0"
- Model 17: Storage 4'7", A-frame 4'0" to 7'0", Extension 9'0" to 15'0"
- Model 22: Storage 5'7", A-frame 5'0" to 9'0", Extension 11'0" to 19'0"
- Model 26: Storage 6'7", A-frame 6'0" to 11'0", Extension 13'0" to 23'0"
The Little Giant Ladder System also offers different duty ratings in accordance with ANSI and OSHA standards:
- Type IAA (Special Duty): 375 lbs. working load
- Type IA (Industrial - Extra Heavy): 300 lbs. working load
- Type I (Industrial - Heavy): 250 lbs. working load
Function Description:
The ladder system is comprised of three basic components: an inner ladder unit assembly and two outer unit assemblies that telescope over the inner unit. The inner ladder assembly has two locking center hinges that allow the ladder to be configured in multiple ways. Locking mechanisms on the two outer assemblies permit length adjustment, with lock tab assemblies fitting into any rung of the inner ladder for foot-by-foot adjustment on either end.
Usage Features:
- Hinge System: The hinge, located at the top of the ladder in storage position, allows users to alter the ladder's shape. It locks into A-frame, extension, and storage positions. To unlock, the palm button must be pushed straight in until it stays in the open position. If pressure makes unlocking difficult, gently adjust one half of the ladder back and forth. Forcing the hinge lock with tools is warned against, as it can cause permanent damage. The hinge lock automatically engages in the A-frame configuration to prevent damage or injury.
- Lock Tab Assemblies: There are four lock tab assemblies on each ladder, which enable height adjustment. These must be fully inserted into an inner ladder assembly rung hole before use to prevent injury. When telescoping the inner ladder, users must always hold the ladder with both hands on the vertical upper rails or hinges and ensure no clothing or body parts are placed between the rungs.
- A-frame Position Adjustment: To adjust the A-frame height, unlock both hinges, pull out the four lock tab assemblies from the inner ladder's rung holes, and rest them on the side of the outer ladder rail. Raise the inner ladder to the desired height, align outer holes with inner rung holes, and reinsert the lock tab assemblies.
- Extension Ladder Position Adjustment: From storage, unlock the hinge and rotate to the extension position until both hinges lock. If equipped with wheels, they must be at the top of the ladder in this position. Unlock lock tab assemblies on the upper half, grasp the outer ladder, and walk backward to telescope to the desired height.
- Staircase Position: Adjust the ladder to the desired height as for the A-frame position. If equipped with wheels, they should be on the bottom of the long side, not against the stairs. Then adjust the side for proper alignment to fit the staircase.
- Scaffolding Trestle Operation (Not for Fiberglass Ladders): Pull the inner ladder assembly completely out of the outer ladder bases. Open the inner ladder assembly to the A-frame position until both hinges lock, forming the first trestle. If equipped with wheels, turn the ladder without wheels 180 degrees and insert lock assemblies of that base into adjacent holes of the opposite outer base, ensuring wheels face out. Grasp the outer ladder base with unused lock assemblies, lower 1/2 inch, and spread the opposite outer ladder base to form a second A-frame trestle. Rotate forked ears on the work platform and insert it between outer ladder bases on the third rung down of each base, with the wire-formed end surrounding the outer rung turned to the inside. The scaffolding trestle configuration should only be used with the optional work platform spreader attachment.
- Work Platform Operation: The work platform's bolts should be tightened or loosened until brackets move stiffly. Adjust it to fit the ladder rung and place it at the desired height. Push the platform forward and step up through the rung above it. To secure, push the platform back with a toe until its forward tip rests against the rung. Ensure it's securely in place before putting full weight on it. The platform can also be used as a utility shelf.
Safety Warnings and Cautions:
- Inspection: Inspect upon receipt and before each use. Never use a damaged or broken ladder.
- Wheels: If equipped, wheels must be at the top of the ladder in extension position and must not contact any surface while the ladder is being used or adjusted, as the ladder may roll out and cause injury. Wheels are only for transporting the ladder. Do not use wheels as a step.
- Hinges and Lock Tabs: Keep body parts and clothing out of working mechanisms. Do not force hinge locks. Ensure hinge locks are fully engaged before use.
- Telescoping: Never allow clothing or body parts between rungs. Always hold the ladder with both hands on vertical upper rails or hinges.
- Lock Tab Assemblies: Do not pull out all four lock tab assemblies unless the inner ladder assembly is prevented from sliding down. Lock tab assemblies must be inserted into an inner ladder assembly rung hole.
- Work Platform: Ensure the work platform is locked into position before climbing. Do not use outer sections of the ladder as a separate stepladder without the auxiliary spreader bar (work platform).
- General Safety: Set all four feet on a firm, level surface. Keep steps dry and clean. Wear slip-resistant shoes. Keep body centered between siderails. Read all instructions. For extension ladders, the base-to-wall distance should be 1/4 the working length of the ladder. Never climb the back of the ladder in extension position. Avoid electrical contact. Do not overreach; move the ladder as needed. Do not stand, climb, or sit on braces, spreaders, pail shelf, back section, or above the second step from the top. Do not stand closer to the top than the third rung from the top. Do not use in high winds. Do not use as a platform, plank, brace, or hoist. Do not overload.
Maintenance Features:
- Lubrication: Lubricate hinge mechanisms and lock tab assemblies at least every six months and prior to long-term storage, or more often depending on use and weather conditions. Recommended lubricants include silicone spray, high-performance lubricant, dry lubricant, white lithium grease, or light machine oil.
- Storage: Store the ladder in a dry location out of the weather.
- Cleanliness: Keep rails clean for easy sliding. Keep hinge mechanisms free of dirt, salt spray, or other contaminants. Keep all ladder rungs, ladder feet, and standing/gripping surfaces free from lubricants.
- Parts Replacement: Replace inner and outer feet as required. Check all components for correct operation. Replace obscure, defaced, or missing labels with a label kit.
Accessories:
- Work Platform: Supports up to 300 lbs, tucks away, and can be used as a tool rest.
- Leg Leveler: Provides stability on uneven surfaces.
- Wing Span: Adds width for stability when working around windows or other obstacles.
- Telescoping Plank: Converts ladders into a scaffolding system, stores in half its extended length, and features a slip-resistant surface. Available in 6' to 9', 8' to 13', and 10' to 16' lengths, with a 250 lbs capacity.
Little Jumbo® Safety Step:
A separate product line, these safety steps are built to exacting specifications, featuring wide, slip-resistant treads for maximum stability and fold-up safety bars. Available in two-step, three-step, and four-step models. Made from rugged, corrosion-resistant aluminum alloy, they are lightweight, easy to handle, and fold to a slim 5" depth.
Warranty:
Wing Enterprises, Inc. offers a limited warranty for the Little Giant Ladder System.
- Original Little Giant Ladder System (Type IA): Lifetime
- Little Giant Ladder System (Fiberglass): 1 year
- Little Giant Ladder System (Type IAA): Lifetime
- Little Giant Ladder System (Type I): 5 years
- Little Giant SkyScraper: 5 years
The warranty covers defects in workmanship or materials from the date of original purchase. The customer is responsible for freight to and from the factory. The warranty does not cover normal wear and tear, misuse, or abusive treatment, including damage by vehicles, tools, people, animals, falling objects, acts of God, or use contrary to instructions.