HEALTH, SAFETY & WELLBEING
LIFELINE OR LIABILITY
With a huge number of benefits, telescopic ladders can be indespensible for facilities management teams. However, as Francis Camilleri, Technical Director at T.B. Davies and Chair of the Ladder Association Technical Committee highlights, many fail even the most basic safety checks. How can we ensure they are safe?
Telescopic ladders have become an invaluable tool for facilities management teams. Their compact, lightweight design makes them easy to transport and store, while their adjustable height provides versatility for a wide range of tasks. However, these advantages come with a significant caveat: many telescopic ladders fail basic safety checks, posing serious risks to users.
How can you identify whether a telescopic ladder is safe? The EN 131-6 standard is the benchmark for telescopic ladders, ensuring they have passed rigorous safety tests and are built to last. Always check for EN 131 certification marks on the product, packaging, and user manual when purchasing a telescopic ladder.
The safest ladders offer design features such as a wider base for stability and locking mechanisms that secure all rungs at once. Ladders over three metres long must have a wider base to improve stability. Certified models are equipped with locking mechanisms that secure all rungs simultaneously, reducing the chance of uneven spacing or user error. Avoid ladders with individual rung locks, which can pose significant safety risks.
Xtend+Climb 4.4m, the longest telescopic ladder on the market, is available from
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Recent findings from the Ladder Association show that over 80% of telescopic ladders failed to pass essential safety checks. Even more concerning is that many of these ladders were advertised as compliant with the European EN 131 standard. These results highlight the necessity of understanding what makes a ladder safe and choosing reliable equipment.
This article discusses how to identify compliant ladders, provides safety and maintenance tips, and examines why telescopic ladders continue to be essential tools for facilities management teams, despite the risks associated with poor-quality models.
34 | TOMORROW’S FM
Be wary of suspiciously cheap products or those bearing illegal markings, such as CE or UKCA, which are not valid for ladders. Also, research the seller’s reputation to ensure they have a UK or EU address. This makes getting help or a replacement easier if the product is faulty. Customer reviews can provide additional insight, but be cautious of fake or overly generic feedback.
For peace of mind, purchase ladders only from suppliers affiliated with the Ladder Association. The association's members commit to selling compliant, high-quality products, and its website features a directory of reputable sellers. This offers a trusted resource for FM professionals seeking safe equipment.
Safe usage and maintenance Even the safest telescopic ladder needs proper use and maintenance to ensure reliable performance. Begin every use with a quick inspection, checking for any signs of damage, such as cracked stiles, worn feet, or faulty locking mechanisms. Since telescopic ladders have more moving parts than traditional models, keeping these components clean and in good working order is critical.
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