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Ladder Safety

Most ladder accidents are caused by human error, not by ladders failing. But any equipment in
poor condition is potentially dangerous, so do this quick check before each job.
Is the stepladder generally sound?

• No damage to the stiles (the outside uprights) or steps or top platform? Dents, bends, cracks and
  splits are all hazards. If you do find any structural damage, don't attempt to repair it – you need a
  new stepladder.
• Are the rubber or plastic non-slip feet all safely in position? Before you use the ladder, any miss-ing ones must be replaced – we can usually supply these.
• Make sure the steps are all clean and tidy.
  

ABOVE ALL BE CAREFUL

How to choose the correct ladder

Many different designs of ladders are available, from small ‘step-stools’ to larger stepladders and com-
bination designs which can be converted into extending ladders. The type bought most often are the 4
to 7 step folding versions. These are suited to many jobs around the house, but it’s very important
never to use any ladder that’s the wrong height for the particular job you’re doing. Some are too short
for high work, and some – just as dangerous – are too tall for lower work. You must be able to do your
work comfortably without overreaching up, down or sideways.

All ladders should meet the required British or European standards – check this whenever you buy one.

• BS 2037:1994 (British) applies to metal ladders
• BS EN 131:1993 (European) applies to both
• BS 7377:1994 (British) applies to step-stools

Is it strong enough?

Our ladders are marked according to their safe working load. This classification, however, can vary
slightly in the values given and has caused confusion. The variation is due to the different way in which the values for safe working are expressed. In the British Standard it is ‘Duty rating’. These have been arrived at by taking into account the general conditions and probable frequency of use for each type. The European Standard uses ‘Maximum static vertical load’.

To help clarify this, we have given both sets of figures. British Standard stepladders to BS 2037
(Aluminium) or BS 7377 (Step-stools):

• Class 1 (Industrial) Duty rating 130kg (20 stone) Maximum vertical static load 175kg
• Class 3 (Domestic) Duty rating 95kg (15 stone) Maximum vertical static load 125kg

European Standard stepladders to BS/EN 131 (all types):

• (Previous Class 2) Duty rating 115kg (18 stone) Maximum vertical static load 150kg