A rolling ladder is a mobile access platform designed to help workers safely reach elevated storage areas, shelving, or machinery. It’s typically built from steel, aluminum, or fiberglass, and mounted on casters or spring-loaded wheels for smooth movement. When stepped on, the ladder locks into place to prevent movement, ensuring stability during use. Rolling ladders are commonly found in warehouses, libraries, and retail stockrooms where frequent access to high storage is needed.

Steel Rolling designs are built for rugged, everyday use in busy aisles, a great fit when you need a warehouse ladder that resists dings and flex. A steel ladder typically offers a higher load rating and a more planted feel on long runs, with full-size handrails that support steady contact on every step and at the platform. Aluminum is chosen when lower weight and frequent moves are priorities, as they can add ease of use.

Match the tread to your surface and traffic. A perforated tread gives a strong grip and sheds debris, which is good for dusty or oily areas. Expanded-metal styles bite into boot soles for maximum traction, while solid ribbed treads feel smoother underfoot for clean, finished floors. Consider your typical loads, aisle conditions, and required height when selecting the tread and step count.

A deep top step (often called a deep top or oversized top step) provides extra standing room at working height so you can stage parts, face forward, or operate tools comfortably. Choose a deep top step when tasks require longer dwell time at elevation, good for stock picking, labeling, scanning, or assembly. It’s also useful when you need room to pivot safely with two feet planted before descending the next step.

Warehouses and distribution centers (stock picking, inventory organization)

Retail stores (accessing upper shelves or signage)

Manufacturing facilities (maintenance or assembly line access)

Libraries and offices (book or file retrieval)

Aircraft and automotive maintenance (accessing tall vehicles or equipment)
They’re preferred because they combine height access with mobility, reducing the need for unsafe alternatives like climbing on shelves or using forklifts for access.

A folding ladder is a portable ladder with hinged sections that collapse for easy storage and transport. It’s designed to provide access to moderate heights safely and can be configured in various positions (A-frame, extension, or platform depending on model). You’ll find folding ladders everywhere — from home garages and construction sites to maintenance and light industrial workspaces — because they’re compact, versatile, and don’t require wall support.

Absolutely. Before climbing, lock all hinges and spreaders completely open so the ladder can’t collapse. A partially unfolded or unlocked ladder is a leading cause of ladder-related injuries. You should hear or feel a click when hinges are locked properly.

Not required by OSHA for short folding ladders, but highly recommended. Many folding ladders include extended handholds or safety bars to help maintain balance. For commercial or frequent-use applications, models with integrated safety handles or platform rails are worth it.

Aluminum – Lightweight, rust-resistant, and affordable. Ideal for general use.

Fiberglass – Non-conductive, stronger, and safer for electrical work.

Steel – Heavy-duty, but heavier and prone to corrosion without coating.

Plastic/Composite – Lightweight and used for household or short-reach applications.

Tip: If you’re working around electricity, go fiberglass — never metal.

Your working height should be about 4 feet higher than your ladder height.
Example:

• For an 8 ft ceiling, a 4–5 ft ladder is ideal.

• For 12 ft ceilings, go with a 7–8 ft ladder.
  Avoid standing on the top step unless it’s rated as a platform.

A crossover ladder (or crossover platform) is a fixed or mobile structure that allows workers to safely pass over obstacles such as conveyor belts, assembly lines, pipes, or machinery.
It typically consists of:

• Two stairways (ascent and descent sides)

• A central platform or bridge

• Handrails and guardrails for fall protection

Crossover ladders are designed for continuous, safe access between areas that would otherwise require workers to walk around or step over obstructions — reducing travel time and trip hazards.

They’re used across a wide range of facilities, including:

• Manufacturing and production plants (over machinery or lines)

• Warehouses and logistics centers (crossing conveyors or storage lanes)

• Maintenance areas (access over piping, ducts, or equipment)

• Chemical and food processing (separating walkways from sensitive zones)

• Energy and utilities (crossing cables, pumps, or pipelines)

Essentially, anywhere workers need safe passage over obstacles that can’t be moved.

They can be either, depending on the model:

• Permanent (fixed): Bolted to the floor for long-term installation over machinery or walkways.

• Mobile (modular): Mounted on locking casters and moved as needed, often made of lightweight aluminum.

Permanent models are more common in manufacturing environments, while modular or portable crossovers are used in maintenance and flexible layouts.

Because walking around machinery or conveyors often means:

• Longer travel routes (lost productivity)

• Crossing into unsafe zones (risk of injury)

• Stepping over hazards (risk of tripping or falling)

Crossover ladders provide a designated safe path that:

• Reduces travel time

• Improves safety compliance

• Keeps foot traffic away from moving parts or floor-level hazards

They’re a safety and efficiency upgrade rolled into one.

• Fixed models: Anchored to the floor with bolts or base plates.

• Mobile models: Use locking casters, floor brakes, or spring-loaded wheels that automatically lock under weight.
  Before each use, verify that all locking mechanisms engage properly.

An aluminum ladder is a lightweight, corrosion-resistant ladder made primarily from extruded aluminum alloys. They’re common in construction, warehousing, maintenance, and residential use because they’re strong yet easy to carry and store.

A stainless steel ladder is a heavy-duty, corrosion-resistant ladder built for industrial, marine, and food-service environments where hygiene or durability is critical. They’re designed to withstand harsh chemicals, moisture, and temperature extremes without rusting or degrading.

They’re widely used for:

• Home and DIY tasks – painting, repairs, roof access

• Construction and maintenance – light-to-medium duty access work

• Warehouses and factories – inventory, light installation work

• Transportation and utilities – inspections, repairs, servicing

Basically, anywhere you want a sturdy ladder that won’t rust and doesn’t weigh a ton.

• Food and beverage plants (cleanroom or washdown areas)

• Pharmaceutical facilities (sterile environments)

• Chemical plants (corrosive exposure)

• Marine and offshore industries (saltwater resistance)

• Industrial maintenance (high-load or harsh environment access)

These are not household ladders — they’re built for precision and endurance.

Aluminum Ladders

• Lightweight – Easy to move and transport.

• Corrosion-resistant – Won’t rust, even in humid conditions.

• Durable – High strength-to-weight ratio.

• Low maintenance – No paint or coating required.

• Cost-effective – Typically cheaper than fiberglass or stainless.

They’re ideal for users who value mobility and convenience over maximum load capacity.

Stainless Steel Ladders

• Corrosion-resistant – Excellent for wet, chemical, or marine settings.

• High strength – Superior load capacity and impact resistance.

• Long service life – Decades of use with minimal degradation.

• Easy to sanitize – Smooth finish allows for sterile cleaning.

• Fire and heat resistant – Won’t deform or melt under high temps.

They’re the premium choice for reliability and hygiene-critical operations.

A mobile platform is a movable elevated work surface designed to give workers safe access to elevated areas. It typically consists of a platform with guardrails, mounted on locking casters or wheels for easy repositioning. Unlike simple ladders, mobile platforms are designed for working at height for extended periods, not just climbing up and down. They’re sometimes called mobile work platforms, rolling platforms, or portable access platforms.

Mobile platforms are used across nearly every industry:

• Warehousing and distribution centers (picking, stocking, inventory)

• Maintenance and facilities (HVAC, lighting, painting, cleaning)

• Manufacturing and assembly lines (equipment access, quality checks)

• Transportation sectors (bus, train, and aircraft servicing)

• Food and chemical plants (inspection or sanitation access)

Basically, anywhere workers need safe, stable elevated access that can be moved without heavy equipment.

They must meet OSHA 29 CFR 1910.29 (fall protection systems) and ANSI MH30.3 / ANSI A14.7 (mobile ladder stands and platforms).
Key OSHA requirements:

• Guardrails on all open sides (42" height minimum)

• Midrails and toe boards

• Slip-resistant surfaces

• Locking casters when in use

• Rated for intended loads

Failure to comply can result in serious citations — especially in facilities or production settings.

Yes — that’s common.
Manufacturers can tailor:

• Platform height and length

• Access type (stairs, ladder, or crossover)

• Handrail configuration

• Caster size and brake style

• Material type (aluminum, galvanized steel, stainless)

Some facilities order platforms designed to fit specific machinery, tanks, or vehicles.

Standard models range from 18 inches to 15 feet in platform height.
Custom designs can exceed that, but OSHA requires additional fall protection above certain heights.
For routine access tasks, 3–6 ft platforms are most common.

A fixed ladder is a permanently attached vertical or inclined ladder designed to provide safe access to elevated areas such as roofs, mezzanines, docks, lofts, pits, and platforms. Unlike portable ladders, fixed ladders are bolted or welded to a building structure for long-term stability. Diverse Supply offers a wide range of fixed ladder styles, including fixed caged ladders, vertical fixed ladders, wall-mounted ladders, dock ladders, and stainless steel models, so facilities can select the right design for their specific access needs.

A caged fixed ladder includes a wrap-around metal safety cage that helps protect workers from falls during ascent and descent. OSHA generally requires cages or ladder safety systems on ladders extending more than 24 feet in vertical height (depending on the code version your facility follows). At Platforms And Ladders, we provide multiple fixed caged ladder configurations in aluminum, steel, and stainless steel to help businesses stay compliant with current safety regulations.

Yes. All fixed ladders sourced through Diverse Supply are designed to meet or exceed OSHA, ANSI, and building-code requirements. This includes proper rung spacing, step-across distances, rail extensions, cage design, load ratings, and required fall protection features. Our team can also guide you toward models that meet local code variations or industry-specific safety requirements.

Fixed ladders come in several material options depending on the environment and application:

• Painted steel – the most economical and widely used option for industrial and commercial buildings

• Aluminum – lightweight, corrosion-resistant, ideal for rooftops, food facilities, and outdoor environments

• Stainless steel (304/316) – best for harsh, corrosive, or sanitary environments such as chemical plants, marine facilities, and processing plants

Diverse Supply offers all three options across many ladder models, along with powder-coated safety colors and weather-resistant finishes.

We offer one of the largest selections of fixed ladders on the market, including:

• Fixed caged ladders

• Vertical fixed ladders

• Wall-mounted ladders with or without walk-through handrails

• Dock ladders (walk-through and side-step styles)

• Drop-down and retractable fixed ladders

• Alternating tread ladders

• Pivotal ladders

• Manhole ladders

• Tank access ladders

• Rooftop gliding ladders

• Stainless steel and aluminum fixed ladders

With hundreds of models available, our team helps you select the right ladder based on height, environment, code requirements, and usage.

Yes. While most models are manufactured in standard heights and configurations, many can be customized to accommodate unique clearance issues, wall conditions, roof access points, pit depths, or platform transitions. Adjustments may include extended handrails, custom heights, safety cages, rail extensions, mounting brackets, or specific materials. Platforms and Ladders regularly assists facilities in selecting or configuring fixed ladders that satisfy local building codes and job-site requirements.

Fixed ladders provide significantly higher levels of safety, durability, and stability. They are permanently mounted, preventing tip-overs or sliding hazards, and they allow controlled access to frequently used elevated areas. Fixed caged ladders, dock ladders, and vertical wall-mount ladders also support heavier weight capacities and eliminate the need for employees to carry or reposition equipment. This makes fixed ladders the ideal choice for long-term building access and OSHA compliance.

To choose the right fixed ladder, consider factors like:

• Required ladder height

• Indoor vs. outdoor placement

• Exposure to chemicals, moisture, or extreme weather

• Whether you need a cage or walk-through handrails

• Material preference (steel, aluminum, stainless steel)

• Access point type (roof, mezzanine, dock, tank top, etc.)

• Space constraints or clearance challenges

If you’re unsure where to start, Platforms and Ladders experienced team can review your requirements and recommend the best ladder type and configuration.

Industrial stairways are heavy-duty stair systems designed to provide safe, stable access to elevated areas in warehouses, plants, distribution centers, and commercial facilities. Businesses use them for mezzanine access, reaching elevated platforms, servicing equipment, reading gauges or controls, or navigating between levels. At Diverse Supply, our industrial stairways come in multiple angles, materials (steel, aluminum, stainless), and configurations to match a wide range of industrial applications.

We offer several angle configurations to meet different safety and space requirements. Common options include 36° and 36.4° industrial stairways, which provide a standard, comfortable incline. For tighter spaces, we offer 57°, 60°, and 70° access stairways, functioning similarly to ladder-style stairs but with improved footing and stability. Retractable and alternating tread designs are also available for extremely limited spaces.

Industrial stairways are available in painted steel, aluminum, and stainless steel.

• Painted steel is the most affordable and extremely durable for heavy-use environments.

• Aluminum stairways are lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and ideal for outdoor or wet areas.

• Stainless steel offers maximum corrosion protection for harsh industrial environments, food facilities, and chemical plants.

Your choice of material depends on load capacity, environmental exposure, and mobility needs.

Yes. All industrial stairways we offer meet or exceed OSHA 1910 standards for tread depth, riser height, width, load capacity, and handrail requirements. We also offer IBC-compliant stairways, which are required for certain commercial and public-access applications. Our team can help you determine which code applies to your facility and guide you toward the correct stair system.

Absolutely. We provide custom industrial stairway systems tailored to your space, ceiling height, access needs, material preferences, and local building codes. Customizations may include:

• Platform length and height

• Stair angle

• Railings and handrails

• Surface tread types

• Landings, turns, and intermediate platforms

• Material upgrades (aluminum or stainless steel)

You’ll work with a dedicated project manager to ensure the final system fits your workspace perfectly.

Safety is a priority in every design. Most of our stairways include:

• Non-slip tread surfaces such as Grip Strut or serrated steel

• Handrails on one or both sides

• Wide tread designs (typically 10–14 inches) for secure footing

• OSHA-approved riser heights

• Durable welded construction for structural integrity

• Optional safety gates, landings, or guardrails 

These features help prevent slips, trips, and falls in busy industrial areas.

Yes. For facilities where floor space is limited, we provide:

• Retractable stairways (manual or powered)

• Alternating tread stairs

• Pivotal stairs that fold to 90° when not in use

These designs allow safe access to mezzanines, lofts, storage areas, and equipment rooms without permanently blocking aisles or work areas.

Load capacity varies by material and design, but most industrial stairways support 300–450 pounds or more. Steel models provide the highest capacity for heavy-duty applications, while aluminum options offer lighter weight without sacrificing strength. If you have unique load requirements, such as frequent equipment transport, our team can recommend the right model.

Diverse Supply provides one of the most extensive selections of aircraft maintenance platforms and stands in the industry. Our product line includes B1, B2, B4, B5, B7, and multiple modified aircraft maintenance stands, full-wrap platforms for aircraft like the F-16, F-35, C-130, and KC-135, as well as helicopter maintenance platforms, radome stands, windshield maintenance stands, cockpit access stands, wing inspection ladders, wheel-well ladders, and towable passenger stairs. Whether you’re servicing jets, turboprops, helicopters, or military aircraft, we have solutions designed for safety, ergonomics, and long-term durability.

Most aircraft maintenance ladders and platforms are constructed from high-grade aluminum, making them lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and easy to maneuver on the ramp or in a hangar. Aluminum is the preferred choice across aviation maintenance because it offers strength without unnecessary weight. Many models also include steel components for reinforcement, anti-slip steps, OSHA-compliant guardrails, and heavy-duty casters for mobility.

Yes. All aircraft maintenance ladders, platforms, and stands supplied by Diverse Supply are engineered to meet or exceed OSHA and aviation-industry safety requirements. This includes compliant step angles, guardrails, slip-resistant surfaces, load ratings, and proper platform access. Many models are also designed to align with FAA facility standards and military specifications for ground support equipment (GSE).

Absolutely. While we offer a large number of standard models, many aircraft maintenance platforms can be modified or configured to match exact aircraft contours, working heights, or maintenance requirements. Customizations may include adjustable platform heights, specialized deck cutouts, extended guardrails, towable bases, or unique footprints for tight hangar spaces. Whether you need a custom stand for random access, an aviation-specific deicing platform, or a full wrap-around set for military aircraft, our team can help you find or configure the right solution.

Our aircraft maintenance stands and ladders are built for a wide range of aviation tasks, including:

• Engine inspections and repairs

• Wing and rotor inspections

• Cockpit and windshield access

• Fuselage and tail maintenance

• Wheel and brake service

• Radome and nose servicing

• Cargo door and lavatory access

• Passenger boarding

• Deicing operations

These platforms are designed to improve worker safety, accessibility, and efficiency in routine maintenance, repair, and ground operations.

Choosing the right maintenance platform depends on several factors:

• The aircraft model(s) you maintain

• Required working height or deck height

• Maintenance tasks performed (radome access, wing inspection, tail maintenance, etc.)

• Indoor vs. outdoor use

• Whether mobility or towability is required

• Space constraints inside the hangar

• Safety or regulatory requirements

Our team can review your maintenance needs and recommend the appropriate stand, whether that’s a standard B1/B4 stand, a full wrap-around system, a deicing platform, or a custom-configured maintenance ladder.

Yes. To maintain OSHA compliance and ensure ongoing worker safety, aircraft maintenance stands and ladders should be inspected regularly for signs of wear, loose hardware, damaged casters, worn anti-slip surfaces, or corrosion. Aluminum platforms require minimal upkeep but should still be cleaned and checked periodically, especially in environments exposed to weather, deicing fluids, or aviation chemicals. Routine maintenance helps extend the lifespan of your equipment and prevents unexpected downtime.

Absolutely. Aircraft maintenance equipment varies widely by aircraft type, task, and facility layout, which is why our team is available to help you compare models, understand OSHA requirements, determine deck heights, and choose the most economical option for your operation. We can walk you through available configurations, provide freight quotes, and assist with selecting platforms for FBOs, MRO facilities, military bases, and aviation repair centers. Our goal is to ensure you get the safest and most effective maintenance platform for your aircraft and crew.

A material handling cart is a non-powered, wheeled device used to move goods, tools, or materials around a facility. This includes platform carts, shelf carts, order-picking carts, u-boats, panel carts, and hand trucks/dollies.

Common in:

• Warehouses & distribution (picking, staging, replenishment)

• Retail stockrooms

• Manufacturing & assembly (line-side parts delivery)

• Maintenance & facilities (tools, filters, trash/cleanup)

• Healthcare & hospitality (supplies, laundry, food service)

• Cart (platform/shelf cart): load sits on a deck or shelves; pushed/pulled on 4 wheels.

• Hand truck (2-wheel): load is tilted back onto wheels; better for tall/heavy stacked items.

• Dolly: flat low platform, often 4 casters; great for bulky items but no containment.

Pushing is usually safer because you can:

• Use body weight more effectively

• Keep better visibility and control

• Reduce shoulder/low-back twisting

Pulling is sometimes necessary (tight spaces), but it increases risk of awkward posture and sudden “yanks” when a wheel hits debris.

Match cart type to the load:

• High volume small items: shelf cart / order-picking cart

• Bulky/awkward loads: u-boat, panel cart, cage cart

• Heavy dense loads: steel deck cart with large casters

• Rough floors / thresholds: larger diameter wheels or pneumatic tires

Key specs to match:

• Capacity (rated load)

• Deck size vs load footprint

• Wheel type + diameter

• Brake needs (ramps, docks)

• Ergonomics (handle height, push force)

A trailer is a towed vehicle designed to carry cargo/equipment, pulled by a tow vehicle via a coupler/hitch system. Examples: utility trailers, equipment trailers, enclosed cargo, dump trailers, car haulers.

Depends on use:

• Commercial use: FMCSA rules under 49 CFR, especially Part 393 (required parts and accessories).

• Trailer brakes, lighting, coupling devices, etc. are covered in those sections, plus related FMCSA inspection expectations.

A solid pre-trip includes:

• Coupler fully seated + locked

• Safety chains crossed and attached

• Breakaway cable connected (if equipped)

• Lights working (brake/turn/running)

• Tire pressure + visible condition

• Lug nuts secure

• Brakes operational (if trailer has them)

FMCSA’s inspection guidance lists key items like service brakes (including trailer connections), tires, coupling devices, wheels/rims, and lights/reflectors.

They can, but storage causes:

• Tire flat-spotting / UV damage

• Grease/bearing issues

• Brake corrosion

• Battery drain on breakaway systems

Store with:

• Tire protection and correct inflation

• Periodic movement

• Covered wiring connections

• Brake checks before returning to service

Underinflation. It builds heat, leads to blowouts, and makes the trailer handle worse. (Also: old tires that “look fine” but are aged out.)