How To Choose A Ladder

One of the major causes of accidents when working at height is loss of stability. This is a result of using the wrong ladder; one that is too short or unsuitable for the task so choosing the right ladder makes all the difference when it comes to safety.

Below are four key elements that will help you choose the right ladder for the job.

1. Height

When selecting the ladder for the job, you need to consider the height that you will be working at and the height that you can safely reach to. We recommend always choose a ladder slightly higher than you might need to avoid over reach and follow the instructions on the ladder for safe use.

Our suggested safe working height is based on 1.75m as the average reach height of a person when standing on the maximum advised safe climb/standing height. The illustrations describe the maximum advised standing heights to different types of ladders.

Werner Ladder EU Extension Ladder Height

Extension Ladder

Maximum standing height is 4 rungs down from the top of an extension ladder.

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Werner Ladder EU Step Ladder Height

Step Ladder

Maximum standing height is 3 steps (includes the top) down from the top of a swingback step ladder. For a platform step ladder, the maximum standing height is the platform.

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Werner Ladder EU Multi-purpose Ladder Height

Multi-purpose Ladder

Maximum standing height is 4 rungs down from the top when used in the stairwell or freestanding extension ladder position with extending ladder at the top.

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2. Applications

Always take care to choose the correct standard of ladder for the job in hand. Our Werner ladders have to meet the new EN131 standard, where applicable, with ladders having a load capacity of 150kg.

If you are going to use the ladders for commercial purposes, you must use ladders that have been tested for Professional Use with a load capacity of 150kg. However, if you are going to use ladders at a private dwelling for non-commercial purposes, you can use ladder certified for Non-Professional Use.

Learn More About Ladder Standards

Ladder Category	Classification	Maximum Load	Application
Step ladders, Combination & Extension Ladders	EN131 Professional	150kg	Suitable for Professional and Non-Professional use
	EN131 Non-Professional	150kg	Suitable for Non-Professional use
	ANSI	136kg	Suitable for Trade use
Stepstools	EN14183 / ANSI	150kg	Ideal for use around the home
Loft Ladders	EN14975	150kg	Suitable for Domestic use only

3. Materials

When it comes to ladders the choice of MATERIAL MATTERS. Usually the first decision when it comes to buying a ladder is which material to choose.

Depending on the type and style, we manufacture ladders in aluminium, fibreglass and in some cases steel - and for loft ladders also in wood. The materials we use have been chosen for their special properties, for example fibreglass is non-conductive to electricity, aluminium doesn't rust or rot; so check out our full range and find out why materials matter.

Turvallinen käyttää sähköympäristöissä

Ei ruostu, lommoile, halkeile, ruostu. Korroosionkestävä.

Kehitetty ja testattu äärimmäisiä lämpötiloja varten

Väri, jolla on hyvä näkyvyys

Älä käytä sähköisissä ympäristöissä

Ruostumaton, korroosionkestävä

Suunniteltu ja testattu pitkäikäiseksi

Helppo käsitellä

4. Unique Product Solutions

Choose the right style of ladder to help you get the job done safely and quickly. Werner has the full range of ladders and access equipment help you work safely and efficiently.

You can choose your new ladder by the type of project you are working on – for example working around electricity or painting and decorating on stairs. See our easy to use guide to the most common projects where a ladder is needed.