Navigating what ladder standards mean can help to provide you with peace of mind that your access equipment is safe for use. With this in mind, we have developed our Guide to Ladder Certifications, helping you to understand what each one means.
Although UK law does not require ladder certification, workplaces may still request it. This is because these ladders can prove they have been through rigorous testing. As a result, they can help to improve worker confidence and productivity.
Why should you purchase a certified ladder?
- Insurance and liability protection: Using non-certified equipment can invalidate insurance claims or expose employers to liability if an accident occurs.
- Safety assurance: Each ladder that meets their certifications has met strict safety standards, reducing the risk of structural failure during use.
- Quality materials: Ladders that are certified need to meet a minimum requirement for materials and build quality. As a result, you can expect greater durability from your professional or non-professional ladder.
What does each EN 131 Certification mean?
EN 131 ranks among the most popular certifications across the UK and Europe and covers a wide range of standard ladders.
- EN 131 Professional (Class I) – For tradesmen looking to complete workforce jobs, having a ladder that meets these standards is fundamental. Because they are durable and can meet the demanding daily conditions, they are perfect for use within commercial settings.
- EN 131 Non-Professional (Class II) – On the other hand, this classification certifies steps for occasional use. They are the ideal choice for completing maintenance tasks around the home. However, their lack of a Class I ranking makes them inadequate for working use.
- BS EN 131 – Here in the UK, we have also adopted EN 131 as a standard for testing. The abbreviation for British Standard therefore confirms we have independently reviewed it for ourselves.
- EN 131-4 – For combination ladders using more than one joint, this certification is what you are looking for. Each ladder undergoes testing in a variety of positions, including against a wall and in an A-frame configuration.
Other EN regulations
- EN 50528 – This certification applies to portable ladders suitable for low-voltage electrical environments. This is thanks to the addition of insulation, helping to prevent dangerous electrical shocks. This standard is seen on our 3 Way Glassfibre Combination Ladders. Plus, with 7 working day delivery, you can be undertaking electrical repairs in no time!
- EN 1004-1 – This certification applies to mobile scaffold towers that provide a working height between 2.5m and 8m outdoors, or up to 12m indoors, according to PASMA. Tests focus on assessing the design and load capacity of these towers. Our Platform Scaffold Tower Combo meets these strict regulations, with integral locking breaks that assist the unit in becoming EN 1004-1 compliant.
- EN 14183 – EN certifications can also be found on small and compact step stools. By conforming to this certification, steps can be used in both professional and domestic environments to reach stock stored at height. They are also recognised as being strong and durable for repetitive use.
- EN 14975 – Certifications can also be applied to a variety of loft ladders that we offer. From those that fold, concertina, or slide, these certifications ensure the space of each tread is right and the angle of the incline when fully assembled. In addition to this, some loft ladders we offer meet EN 12207-Class 4. This means the built-in trapdoor hatch will prevent drafts and the loss of heat.
German Standards of Testing
TUV Approved / GS Certified
All our smaller kick steps are GS Approved. This stands for ‘Geprüfte Sicherheit’, translating to ‘tested Safety’ in German. This trusted mark can be handed out by multiple trusted bodies, including TÜV.
Because these steps go beyond the legal standard, you can trust these small steps to help you get to those hard-to-reach spots. Their small size makes them easy to store in between uses and improves access to tall shelves.
EN 2 PFG 120
This certification is found on ladders that have been designed to be used alongside electricity. Standing for ‘Prüfgrundsatz’ (translating to ‘test basis’), it provides reassurance to those users who will need to get to a height to reach live electricity points. This standard applies to the Climb-It Aluminium Platform, a compact step stool available in two widths for user comfort and stability.
Find your perfect ladder today
At Direct2U, we offer a wide range of access equipment which conforms to specific regulations. For help and advice in finding the perfect steps for your requirement, contact our sales team directly over the phone, email or live chat. They can answer any questions you may have and point you in the right direction so that you can boost your working height safely.