LADDER SECURER

Abstract: An extendable bracket (2) is attached to the underside of a ladder (1). Ballast (3) is placed on the bracket (2) and the bracket (2) is adjusted for length as necessary. The bracket (2) and ballast (3) assist in securing the top of the ladder (1) against its support and the bottom of the ladder on the ground.

Description: LADDER SECURER This invention relates to a Ladder Securer. Portable ladders are widely used apparatus for gaining access to items above normal reach. When inclined at the correct angle a ladder will normally be quite stable in use and may be ascended without difficulty. However, in many situations, the angle of inclination permitted by surroundings may be too steep for safety and may create problems of access. According to the present invention there are provided one or more extendable brackets to project from the underside of the ladder (ie. the opposite side to that on which the user stands). The brackets may be integral to the ladder or may be detachable. At the end of each bracket furthest away from the ladder is attached a ballast weight which may consist of any of the following :- a) A rigid hollow container which may be filled with water or other suitable substance. b) A sack which may be filled with sand or other suitable substance. c) One or more solid weights. The action of each bracket and ballast weight serves to force the top of the ladder firmly against its support whilst forcing the foot of the ladder against the ground. This action makes the ladder more secure and counteracts any outward force created by a user on the ladder. A specific embodiment of the invention will now be descscribed by way of example with reference to the accompanying drawing in which :- Figure 1 shows, in perspective, a bracket and ballast weight attached to a ladder. Referring to the drawing the bracket 2 is first attached to the ladder 1 , by hooking it over a rung, then the ballast weight 3 is placed on the bracket. The leverage force of the ballast weight may be adjusted by sliding the end part 4 telescopically in or out of the main body of the bracket, securing it in the desired position with a locking pin. Figure 2 shows the bracket and ballast weight viewed from the side.

Claims: CLAIMS 1. A ladder securer comprising a supporting bracket for attachment to a ladder in such manner that the bracket projects rigidly inwards in a roughly horizontal direction from the underside of the ladder together with a ballast weight attached to or resting upon the end of the bracket furthest from the ladder. The supporting bracket may be attached to or rest against the ladder rungs, the ladder stiles or a combination of rungs and stiles. 2. A ladder securer as claimed in Claim 1 except that the supporting bracket is integral to the ladder. 3. A ladder securer as claimed in Claim 2 except that the ballast container is integral to the ladder. 4. A ladder securer as claimed in Claims 1 - 3 wherein the length of the supporting bracket may be adjusted to vary the leverage force of the ballast weight. 5. A ladder securer as claimed in Claims 1 - 4 wherein the supporting bracket may be collapsible to facilitate transport and storage. 6. A ladder securer as claimed in Claims 1 - 5 wherein the ballast weight consists of a rigid hollow container which may be filled to requirement with water or other suitable substance. 7. A ladder securer as claimed in Claims 1 - 5 wherein the ballast weight consists of a sack or bag which may be filled to requirement with sand or other suitable substance. 8. A ladder securer as claimed in Claims 1 - 5 wherein the ballast weight consists of one or more solid weights. 10. A ladder securer substantially as described herein with reference to Figures 1 - 2 of the accompanying drawing.

Inventors: BIRNEY THOMAS PETER IAN, CLARKE MICHAEL JOHN, BIRNEY, THOMAS, PETER, IAN, CLARKE, MICHAEL, JOHN
Applicants: BIRNEY THOMAS PETER IAN, CLARKE MICHAEL JOHN, BIRNEY, THOMAS, PETER, IAN, CLARKE, MICHAEL, JOHN
Application year: 1995
Main classification: E06C7
IPC codes: E06C7