Ladders & Access Equipment FAQ
About Werner
Why should I buy a Werner Ladder?
Werner has been the preferred choice for trade professionals for decades when it comes to working at height. From large-scale construction to professional painting and decorating, Werner has earned its best-in-class reputation on some of the world's most demanding building sites.
Our entire product design process from engineering to manufacturing creates innovative access equipment that ensures productivity, durability and safety for professionals. To further demonstrate our confidence in our Werner products, we provide industry-leading guarantees against defects in materials and workmanship.
Where can I buy Werner Ladders from?
Werner ladders and accessories are available to purchase via most builders' merchants and leading retailers across the UK. To find a stockist near you, please refer to our where to buy section on our website, where you can search by postcode and browse a list of approved sellers.
Can I buy a Werner cat ladder?
A roof ladder is also known as a cat ladder for accessing and working on the roof safely. Werner roof ladders are designed for easy positioning, storage and transportation. Available in 4 sizes. Our roof ladders are available to purchase via most builders’ merchants and leading retailers, click below to view the range.
Product Info
What is the difference between a Fibreglass and an Aluminium Ladder?
Fibreglass ladders have become increasingly popular in the UK for their durability and safety features, including resistance to electricity and weather resilience compared to the aluminium option. Fibreglass are non-conductive, which means the risk of electrical shock can be avoided for electricians or other trade professionals working near live electricity sources. Fibreglass is also warmer to the touch and retains its smooth surface, therefore fibreglass ladders are ideal for specialist trades such as painting and decorating.
Click below to find out why fibreglass ladders are a piece of reliable and safe equipment for any project around the jobsite.
How do I select the correct ladder for the job I need to do?
Step 1: Choose the height
Choose the correct working height of the ladder that you need for your job. We recommend always choosing a ladder slightly higher than you might need to avoid overreach.
The safe reach for several ladder heights assumes a 1.7m tall person with a vertical reach of another 0.5m. The safe working height is typically 1.75m as the average reach height of a person when standing on the maximum advised safe climb/standing height.
Step 2: Choose the application
The equipment you use should always be rigorously tested to check it meets safety standards. Always take care to choose the correct standard of ladder for the job in hand. Professional users should always use ladders that have been tested for
professional use.
If you’re using a ladder for commercial purposes, you must use ladders that have been tested for Professional Use with a load capacity of 150kg
Note: Please check the load capacity is the total combined weight of the person, the tool/equipment and materials that the user is carrying. Ladder standards in the UK have changed to a single British and European standard covering all types of portable ladders. Our Werner ladders have changed to the latest EN131 standards, where applicable, with ladders having a load capacity of 150kg. Click below to find out about the latest UK ladder standards.
Step 3: Choose ladder style
Using the wrong kind of equipment can result in a fall or serious injury. The most common types of ladders are step ladders and extension ladders. However, there are many other different types and styles available such as swingback, platform, telescopic, fibreglass and combination ladders. Each type of ladder offers specific features and benefits that make them ideal for certain jobs.
Making sure you’re using the right ladder for the job helps to minimise accidents and makes the task easier.
Remember!! If you are working with or around electricity you should be using a Fibreglass product.
Click below for our simple ladder buying guide to help you choose the best ladder for the job.
Can I use my ladder without the stabiliser bar?
The latest EN131 ladder standard introduced stabilisers on ladders over 3m. For ladders that require a stabiliser bar, the ladders should not be used until the stabiliser bar is fully attached and secured to the ladder. The stabiliser bar can be removed for transportation purposes only.
Can I take the section from my extension ladder apart?
You should never take your extension ladders apart. The ladders should always be used in the way they were designed and intended.
What guarantee comes with my ladder and do I need to register it?
Our 10-year guarantee applies across Werner Professional EN131 ladders, roof ladders, retail and warehouse steps. 5-year guarantee applies across Werner Non-Professional EN131 ladders, EN14975 loft ladders, work platforms, step stools, telescopic ladders, telescopic towers and access towers. Our accessories come with a 1-year guarantee.
The guarantee information can be found on the product packaging. There is no need to register your product to activate your guarantee, simply keep your receipt and if you need to make a claim please contact us.
Our guarantees include faults arising from defects in workmanship or materials except for -
- Ordinary wear and tear of the product.
- Damage caused by misuse or abuse of the product.
- Damage caused by failure to comply with all written warnings and instructions for the product.
- Damage caused by an attempted repair of the product.
Material - means a material or component used by Werner in the manufacture of the product.
Workmanship - means the handling, assembly and manufacturing processes performed by or on behalf of Werner in order to manufacture the product.
Where can I find an instruction manual for my Werner products?
All Werner ladders and access equipment come with user instructions or instruction manuals that provide safety guidance and guide you through the operating/installation process. You can download the manuals on the Literature page, or navigate to a specific product and click the manual to download in the Resources section.
Can I still use a Class 1 ladder?
The ladder standards in the UK have changed to a single British and European standard covering all types of portable ladders. With the introduction of the latest EN131 ladder standard, BS2037 / BS1129 Class 1 for heavy duty and industrial use was withdrawn.
There is no legal requirement to conform to standards in the UK but safety bodies such as Trading Standards and the HSE expect manufacturers to comply. They do not expect users such as utility companies to stop using their current products but as they replace their ladders they should comply with the latest standard.
Safety Info
What should I do before I use my ladder?
It is recommended that your ladder/s be inspected prior to use. The following should be undertaken:
- Check for damage or missing components.
- Check for loose or missing bolts or rivets.
- Check ladder feet for excessive wear.
- Check ropes are not fraying and are securely attached.
- Check that ladder stiles/rungs/treads are straight.
- Check spreaders are in good order.
- Check that the ladder is free from dust, water, grease and corrosion.
- Clean a ladder with mild soapy water and ensure it is dry prior to use.
- Check timber ladder for splits, rot, and insect infestation.
- Never paint a timber ladder use a clear varnish suitable for exterior or marine environments so that defects are not hidden.
- If a ladder does have any defects take it out of service immediately and replace it.
- Store ladders in a dry, covered location.
- Exposure to excessive heat may weaken a ladder.
- If the ladder has sustained a blow or impact carefully check the ladder for defects prior to next use.
- Fibreglass ladders will over time degrade and fibres may become exposed. Wash the ladder with a commercial solvent and apply enough coats of polyurethane or clear acrylic lacquer to encapsulate the fibres.
How do I transport my ladder safely?
When transporting a ladder on a vehicle ensure that the following points are observed:
- The ladder is supported along its length to prevent damage.
- The overhang beyond the supports is equal and less than 1/3 of the length of the ladder.
- The ladder is securely tied down to prevent road shock and chaffing. Do not over-tighten as this may damage the ladder.
- The upper surface of the roof racks or supports should be covered with soft material, such as rubber or pine, to decrease road shock.
How do I store my ladder?
The important considerations when storing a ladder (not in use) should include the following:
- The ladder is stored away from areas where its condition could deteriorate more rapidly e.g. dampness, excessive heat, or exposed to the elements.
- The ladder is stored in a position which helps it remain straight e.g. hung by the stiles on proper ladder brackets or laid on a flat clutter-free surface.
- The ladder is stored where it cannot be damaged by vehicles, heavy objects, or contaminants.
- The ladder is stored where it cannot cause a trip hazard or an obstruction.
- The ladder is stored securely where it cannot be easily used for criminal purposes.
- If the ladder is permanently positioned (e.g. on scaffolding), it shall be secured against unauthorised climbing (e.g. by children).
- Ladders made of or using thermoplastic, thermosetting plastic and reinforced plastic materials should be stored out of direct sunlight.
Where can I get information about ladder safety?
All the information you require can be found here on the website and by participating in our ladder safety training program.
Training
How do I register for the Ladder Training?
Contact us on 01621 745 900 or email [email protected].
Click below to find out more information about the ladder training courses.
Do I need training to use a tower?
While there is no legal requirement for official training, it’s essential for users of mobile access tower users to be competent in assembling and using the tower safely. For those responsible for building, dismantling, moving, or inspecting mobile access towers using 3T or Advanced Guardrail (AGR) systems, PASMA training is highly recommended.
Details of PASMA training courses can be found using the below link:
Support
What are your customer care helpline opening hours?
Our Customer Care helplines are open from Monday to Friday, 8:30 am to 17:00 pm. The helplines are closed on bank holidays. You can also contact us by email or fill out the Contact Us form, and we will get back to you.
Can Werner repair my damaged ladder?
For the safety of the user, we do not repair damaged ladders and do not offer a ladder repair service through the company. However, we do offer replacement parts for the users to purchase from our Spare Parts Shop, such as feet, handrails, loft ladder stowing poles, etc.
What should I do if my product is damaged?
Your product may still be covered by a product guarantee if there is a machinic issue, please contact our Aftersales team for more information.
Where do you deliver to, and what are the charges?
We offer delivery across the UK and Ireland, with extended lead times for certain locations. For offshore areas or locations outside the UK Mainland, separate delivery charges apply. If you're purchasing a ladder from a UK retailer and require delivery, any applicable delivery charges will be confirmed at the point of purchase.
What is your returns policy?
If your product does not meet your requirements, you can return it to the retailer from which it was purchased, following their individual returns policy.
For any issues with missing or damaged parts, please get in touch with us at [email protected] so we can assist you in resolving the issue.
Can you recommend a loft ladder installer?
Unfortunately, we are unable to recommend a loft ladder installer.