GROUND LADDER TESTING

Axcess Hose & Ladder Co. specializes in the testing of Fire Hose and Ground Ladders. We are Firemen Helping Firemen; our trained staff conducts all tests in accordance with NFPA standards

Axcess Hose & Ladder Co. Inc.
P.O. Box 689
Cypress, Texas 77410
(281) 213.4911 (office)
(281) 304.0196 (fax)

TEXAS GROUND LADDER TESTING

The following is a brief description of the 15 point inspection process used to test ground ladders. These procedures meet or exceed NFPA 1932 Standards, and include the latest testing requirements.

1. Visual Inspection - each rung, rail, beam and bolt of the ladder is visually tested for cuts, burns, warped materials and loose connections.
2. Horizontal Bend Test - conducted on all ladders except roof and pompier ladders. Two tests are conducted according to NFPA specs. Ladders are tested with both 350 & 500 lbs. Ladders not meeting NFPA specifications are removed from service and marked with a red 'Out of Service' tag. Failing ladders will not be reloaded on any apparatus by our staff members.
3. Roof Hook Test - is conducted on any ladder with Roof Hooks. The test is conducted by applying 1000 lbs. of force on the tips of the hooks for 1 minute. Hooks & Rungs are then inspected for any deformation. Any ladder showing defects after testing will be marked with a 'Red Out of Service Tag' and removed from the apparatus.
4. Hardware Test - The hardware of an extension ladder is tested by applying 1000' lbs. of pressure to the paws and rungs on the fly section for 1 minute. The paws & rungs are then inspected for deformities and removed from service if applicable.
5. Folding Ladder Test - is essentially the same as the Horizontal Bend Test with the exception of the test pressures. The folding or attic ladder is tested using a preload weight of 160 lbs. for one minute, followed by a 225 lbs. load for 5 minutes. If no visible change is noted, the ladder is returned to service.
6. Heat Sensor - is located and checked. If sensor shows over exposure to heat, is expired or has other problems, the ladder is tagged and removed from service.