Survey Reveals What Folks Would Rather Do Than Climb a Tall Ladder
Source: Werner Ladder

GREENVILLE, PA - Think asking for a raise, talking to your child about sex, or handling a chainsaw causes high anxiety? Think again! A new independent survey conducted by Westco finds that climbing 25 feet high on a ladder is what makes people's stress levels skyrocket.

The thought of climbing 25 feet high on an extension ladder caused more anxiety than...

Ladder safety is something that many take for granted, yet nine out of ten people surveyed face the challenge of positioning their ladder on uneven ground. The methods they use to eliminate uneven ground are even more frightening. At least one in three people use scraps of wood, rocks, or bricks to prop their ladder, and more than half move the ladder to level ground and reach further to accomplish their task.

The experts at the Werner Ladder Company took all the right steps to make ladder climbing easier and safer with The Equalizer™. The innovative factory-installed leveling system promotes the safe use of an extension ladder on uneven ground.

The integrated leveler is easy to use. The leveler leg, with its dual channel holes allows the ladder to be adjusted in 3/8" increments up to 8 1/4" to help the user set the ladder more accurately. A durable zinc-plated steel locking pin with detent ball secures the leveler at the proper height.

The last step features a bright blue inset surface with a built-in bubble level, an exclusive Werner feature known as the EverLevel™ System to help the user level the ladder side to side. The bubble level is recessed into the rung, and is resistant to cold temperature and abuse. Additionally, the visual and tactile alerts of colored surface and texture help the user know they are one step from the ground.

The dual-action feet have slip-resistant gripping pads for flat surfaces, and swivel 90 degrees for secure anchoring in soft ground with the pick teeth on the front of the foot.

The levelers displayed unmatched product performance in lab testing for strength and durability, meeting or exceeding all ANSI and OSHA test requirements for extension ladders and levelers.

The Equalizer™ is available in two aluminum models at this time. The D1700-EQ Series is a Type II Duty Rated model with a load capacity of 225 lbs. -- ideal for the homeowner or DIY-er. The D1800-EQ series is a Type I Duty Rated model with a 250 lb. load capacity, making it the ladder of choice for painters, roofers, contractors, and other professionals. Available ladder heights are 16', 20', 24' and 28'.

The suggested retail pricing will be in the range of $179 to $249, based on the size of the ladder and the Duty Rating. See your local retailer or distributor for exact prices.

Chris Filardi, Vice President of Commercial Marketing for Werner Company, states, "This is a breakthrough product for Werner. It brings professional product features to all levels of users. The Equalizer™ rolls enhanced safety features, superior quality, ease of use and productivity into one revolutionary extension ladder. This product exemplifies Werner's commitment to product excellence, ladder safety and to providing solutions for the end-users' needs."

MAY 25, 2006