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Ground ladder annual service testing

Hi there everyone. I was curious what everyone does for their annual ground ladder service testing. Do you do it in house or contract it out? Can you let me know the pros and cons that you have with either way? Additionally, if you test in house, any tips or tricks to speed up process with weights? Did your department spend the $$ on test equipment like http://www.laddertechnologies.com/hbt.htm or just use gym weights?

Thanks

Ben

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Permalink Reply by Mike France on November 10, 2011 at 12:37pm

Contract it to American testing , they come in and do all the Ground ladders and Ladder Truck, in 2 days .

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Permalink Reply by Michael Bricault (ret) on November 10, 2011 at 2:16pm

-I agree with the contracting idea. In fact, its what we do.

-The company shows up with all the gear as well as trained, bonded and certified technicians. From a liability standpoint it also makes better sense.

-It can take anywhere from 2 days to 6 months depending on your department size.

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Permalink Reply by P.J. Norwood on November 19, 2011 at 10:00pm

Ben, we test in house each with year with no issues. We utilize weights similar to "gym weights" and home made reinforced tall saw horses and http://www.northerntool.com/shop/tools/product_200381629_200381629 to lower weight plates onto the ladders. As far as pro's; less expensive and the #1 pro is it gives everyone the confidence in their equipment. When you can personally test a piece of equipment you become much more confident in it's ability on the fireground.

We do not test our aerial devices those we do contract out for the annual testing.

Good luck in which ever path you take an stay safe.

P.J.

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