RANGE REVIEW: SAFETY & SECURITY WHY DIY RETAILERS
SHOULD STOCK COMPLIANT TELESCOPIC LADDERS
Francis Camilleri, Technical Director at T.B. Davies and Chair of the Ladder Association Technical Committee, provides a guide to safety, quality, and customer trust when it comes to the compliance of telescopic ladders.
foot – an essential consideration for retailers where space is at a premium.
Above: Francis Camilleri, Technical Director at T.B. Davies and Chair of the Ladder Association Technical Committee
T
elescopic ladders have become a ‘must-have’ for DIY
enthusiasts,
offering portability, adjustable height,
and space-saving convenience. Whether it’s for decorating, accessing attic spaces, or tackling outdoor repairs, their versatility makes them a popular choice. However, this surge in demand comes with a significant challenge: the spread of substandard products that fail to meet basic safety standards.
Alarmingly, a recent Ladder Association safety report found that over 80% of telescopic ladders tested did not pass critical safety assessments. With 67% of ladder purchasers intending to use their ladders for decorating, this presents both an opportunity and a responsibility for DIY retailers. Stocking reputable, high-quality telescopic ladders meets customer demand and positions your business as a trusted source of safe and reliable tools. This article explains how retailers can address this issue, educate customers, and boost their reputation and sales.
The importance of sourcing from reputable suppliers To ensure customer safety and product reliability, retailers must source telescopic ladders exclusively from reputable manufacturers and distributors. Ideally, these suppliers
22 DIY WEEK FEBRUARY 2025
should be members of the Ladder Association, as they are committed to selling compliant products and are independently audited. However, even with these checks, retailers should ask for copies of the sellers’ test certificates and verify them through accredited laboratories. Reputable labs, such as TÜV Rheinland, BSi, Test & Research Centre, Intertek, and SGS, often provide methods on their websites to confirm the authenticity of certificates. For example, TÜV Rheinland offers verification through
www.certipedia.com. The certificates provided must show a 100% pass for EN 131 parts 1 (Terms, types, functional sizes), 3 (Labels & marking), and 6 (the specific telescopic element). Retailers can confidently stock safe and reliable products by ensuring these testing standards are met.
The revenue potential of telescopic ladders Telescopic ladders offer significant potential to drive revenue and margin. Unlike conventional ladders, they provide higher sales values per transaction, and the healthy margins reflect the engineering quality and safety features. Customers recognise the inherent risks of unsafe ladders and are often willing to invest in high- quality products that provide peace of mind. Additionally, telescopic ladders take up minimal retail space, resulting in high revenue per square
Educating your customers Retailers have a unique opportunity to add value by educating customers about ladder safety and maintenance. This helps ensure the safe use of the products, builds trust, and positions your store as a knowledgeable and customer- focused business. Customers should be advised to set up ladders on stable, level ground and maintain a 70- to 75-degree angle when leaning. Emphasise the importance of fully engaging all locking systems before climbing and encourage maintaining three points of contact – two hands and one foot – to improve stability during use. Retailers can also provide maintenance advice. Before each use, customers should examine ladders for cracks, worn feet, or defective parts. To function correctly, moving components must be free of dirt and grit, so we suggest storing ladders in a dry, clean location and lubricating them with a silicone- based polish.
Benefits for retailers
Stocking compliant telescopic ladders is about more than safety. It’s also a savvy business strategy that can set your store apart from competitors, particularly online marketplaces offering cheap but unsafe products. DIY customers rely on retailers to provide safe, reliable products, so by providing certified ladders, you build customer trust. Retailers prioritising safety and quality gain a reputation for professionalism and reliability, encouraging long-term customer loyalty. Selling safe ladders also helps mitigate liability risks that can arise if faulty products cause an accident. Highlighting these benefits in your store and marketing materials can also help you stand out from competitors.
Practical steps for retailers To maximise the impact of your product range, ensure your team understands ladder safety standards and can confidently answer customer questions. This knowledge will enhance the shopping experience and reinforce your commitment to safety. Use signage and point- of-sale materials to highlight safety features and EN 131 compliance, as clear labelling helps customers make informed choices. Hosting events or workshops on ladder safety and maintenance can also engage customers and demonstrate your expertise.
Raising industry standards The availability of unsafe ladders highlights the need for greater market oversight. The Ladder Association continues to advocate for stricter regulations and accountability from online marketplaces. Retailers can play a key role in this effort by promoting safety and compliance in their stores. The Ladder Association provides many resources to support retailers, including guidance documents and training programmes. By partnering with reliable suppliers and using these resources, retailers can help raise industry standards while safeguarding their customers.
Investing in safety and trust Stocking high-quality,
compliant
telescopic ladders is an investment in your business’s reputation and customer trust. By focusing on safety, quality, and education, you can position your store as a leader in the DIY retail sector. Offering reliable products meets your customers’ needs and contributes to a safer, more informed DIY community.
Visit the Ladder
Association website at www.
ladderassociation.org.uk for more information on ladder safety and a directory of reliable suppliers.
www.diyweek.net
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