Ladder standards can feel like alphabet soup, but the principle is simple: a ladder used at work should be built and tested for the job. EN 131 is the European standard that defines how ladders are classified and tested. Here is what it means for buying and using ladders safely.
EN 131 sets out the requirements for the design, dimensions, strength and durability of ladders and steps, along with the tests they must pass. In recent years it was updated to split ladders into two classes and to introduce tougher strength and slip tests, so a ladder meeting the current standard is more rigorously tested than older equipment.
The standard distinguishes Professional ladders, intended for frequent commercial and industrial use, from Non-Professional ladders intended for lighter domestic use. For any workplace, Professional classification is the appropriate choice. It indicates the ladder has been built and tested for regular, demanding use rather than occasional jobs at home.
Beyond the classification, look at the contact points. Serrated rungs that sit flat at the climbing angle give a stable, comfortable footing, and deep serrated rubber feet grip the floor. On extension ladders, a heavy duty locking catch holds the sections securely. These are the details that translate a standard on paper into safety in use.
A ladder that met the standard when new still needs looking after. Carry out a quick pre-use check every time: look for damage to stiles, rungs and feet, make sure locking mechanisms work, and never use a ladder on an unstable or slippery base. Take damaged ladders out of service rather than risking them. Combined with the right duty rating, simple checks prevent most ladder incidents.
EN 131 is the European standard covering the design, strength, durability and testing of ladders and steps. A ladder meeting the current standard has passed defined strength and slip tests.
Professional ladders are built and tested for frequent commercial and industrial use. Non-Professional ladders are for lighter domestic use. Workplaces should choose Professional classification.
Carry out a visual pre-use check every time before climbing, and more formal documented inspections at intervals set by your risk assessment. Remove any damaged ladder from service immediately.
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