Ladder safety is predicated upon finding the right ladder for the intended purpose. Knowing the classifications, weight load ratings and construction guidelines that apply to the different classes of ladders will help you purchase the correct ladder for safe use.
Ladders and steps may be made of metal or timber. Different standards apply to each. Let us first examine metal ladders and steps.
Industrial Ladders – Class 1
For the heavy, frequent user, choose a ladder coded as Class 1 Industrial Duty. This ladder will conform to BS2037 and will sustain a Maximum Vertical Static Load Rating of 175kg or 27.5 stones. The best guide for accurate Safe Working Load is the Maximum Vertical Static Load Rating.
The frequent and heavy user applies to work wherein the user will be hauling heavy loads or tools up and down the ladder several times during the course of the work assignment. Furthermore, this kind of constant use happens as a matter of course, every day. A roofer or tile repair man would like fall into the Class 1 Industrial Duty classification.
Trade Duty Ladders – Class 2
For the moderate user, a Class 2 Trade Duty ladder would be appropriate. This ladder will conform to the new continental standard BS EN131 which is applicable across Europe. The Maximum Vertical Static Load Rating for this ladder is 150kg or 23.5 stones.
An example of a moderate user is someone who climbs the ladder during the course of his work but not as frequently as the roofer. A painter, for example may spend part of his day on a ladder, but part of his day will be spent painting at lower levels. A window repairman might have to replace second story windows now and then, but much of his work may well be at ground level. This class is for tradesmen who often use ladders, but not constantly.
Domestic Ladders – Class 3
Class 3 is for Domestic Duty and conforms to BS2037 with a Maximum Vertical Static Load Rating of 125kg or 19.5 stones. This is for the home user who may infrequently need a ladder to change a light bulb or paint a room. It is essential that users are aware that Domestic Duty ladders are made for infrequent, light use and are not to be used in the pursuit of trade or industrial applications. These ladders made collapse or tip over under the heavier usages. Their components are not designed to withstand constant hauling of heavy loads and will quickly wear out or fail altogether.
There may be serious legal and/or insurance consequences when domestic ladders are used in trade or industrial applications. Some unscrupulous persons may believe that they are saving money by using a ladder that is not rated for the task. However, inspectors from the Health & Safety Executive may levy fines upon those who are caught. If a personal injury claim is filed involving such misuse of a ladder, the insurance department may be well within its rights to deny the claim.
Timber ladders are less common these days as they are viewed as less durable. Class 1 Industrial Duty conforms to BS1129 and has a Maximum Vertical Static Load Rating of 175kg or 27.5 stones. Class 2 Trade Duty conforms to BS EN131 and has a Maximum Vertical Static Load Rating of 150kg or 23.5 stones. The application for timber ladders are the same as for the Class 1 and Class 2 metal ladders above.
Another type of ladder is the loft ladder. This type of ladder is typically used inside of a structure to gain access to the loft through an entryway located in the ceiling. BS7553 Class H is designed for heavy use and has a Maximum Vertical Static Load Rating of 150kg or 23.5 stones. Bs7553 Class G is designed for general use and has a Maximum Vertical Static Load Rating of 100kg or 15.75 stones.
The Kitemark is the symbol adopted by the British Standards Institute in 1903. It is a widely accepted mark that lets the user know that the ladder has been constructed in a manner complying with the highest British standards for safety and durability. Those products receiving the BSI Kitemark are subjected to extensive testing to prove their worth. It is an expensive process, but well worth the cost as products bearing the mark brings the prestige and respect that comes with it.
Selecting the proper ladder for the job requires knowledge of the applicable regulations, ladder ratings and classes and how they all fit together. The ultimate goal is to select a ladder that will provide safety and stability during the course of work.