Ladder Standards
Ladder Standards Have Changed: Are You Up to Date?
BS EN 131 (the UK version of EN 131) is now the single British and European product standard covering portable ladders, including step ladders, extension ladders, and combination ladders.
This standard has been substantially revised to improve safety, with ladders now designed to be wider, stronger, and sturdier.
What This Means in Practice
- Previous standards BS 2037 and BS 1129 (often called Class 1 and Class 3) have been withdrawn
- Ladders made to those withdrawn standards are no longer available to buy as current compliant products
- Portable ladders should now be designed and manufactured to EN 131
Scope of EN 131 (Part 1)
The revised scope applies to portable ladders intended for general professional and non-professional use.
It does not apply to portable ladders that are specifically designed and instructed for limited, specialist professional use only.
Further Guidance
For the latest information on ladder standards, visit:
www.ladderassociation.org.uk/standards
Ladder Association Resources
- Ladder Association downloads
- Ladder Association Code of Practice
- LA455: Safe Use of Ladders and Stepladders
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