Ladder Safety: Protecting Yourself in the Workplace

Claudette B.
Nov 23, 2022
3 min read

Ladders. Every tradesperson has one – even every household – but have you ever stopped to think whether your ladder is safe?

We're talking about whether or not it's anti-slip, sturdy, and reliable as a whole. Does it shake when stood on? Does it slide when you move up a rung? Is it heavy to carry alone? If you've answered "Yes" to any of these questions, your ladder may not be as safe as you'd hoped.

It may be time for a replacement, then. But where to start? We're glad you asked, because we're highlighting the key features that make a ladder 'safe', right here in this blog. Seriously – just read below.

Features to look out for

Hymer and Krause are our brands of choice when it comes to ladder safety. Their extensive collections of single ladders, extension ladders, step ladders etc. come with a plethora of features that highlight their abilities to provide a safe working environment, including:

Sturdy / weatherproof platform

Be it a 'sturdy platform' or 'anti-slip and weatherproof platform', this feature assures the user that they won't topple over when standing on the ladder. 'Weatherproof' in particular highlights that a ladder can be used safely outside, so do look out for this if you intend to use the ladder in an outdoor setting.

The Krause 916280 Corda DIY Scaffold Tower 2m Platform Height is a great example of a ladder with a sturdy / weatherproof platform, perfect for outdoor building sites.

Anti-slip feet / foot caps

To ensure safe, secure standing, anti-slip feet are essential. They hold the ladder down and prevent it from sliding, so you'll have less chance of falling at a height (which no one wants to happen). When buying a ladder, make sure it is equipped with them, and you'll protect yourself in the long run.

A step ladder like the Krause 000736 Corda 6 Tread Aluminium Trade Platform Step Ladder stands safely with black, anti-slip feet.

Compact / lightweight

Back and knee strain can be a real problem on the job site, especially when heavy items are not held correctly. This is why it is important to buy a lightweight and compact ladder – they are much easier to carry and won't cause excessive strain. They can also be stored in more places when out of use since they are smaller in size.

A good example of a compact and lightweight ladder is the Krause 000743 Corda 7 Tread Aluminium Trade Platform Step Ladder.This ladder can be folded down and is light in weight at 6.5kg.

Spacious tool tray

Hymer ladders often come with a tool tray to avoid dropping tools and accessories when up high. Doing so could not only damage your power tools but could also hurt anyone standing below. Now, that wouldn't be pretty. A spacious tool tray that closes is your safest bet to saving your tools (and your colleagues) when on the job.

The Hymer 402604 Anodised Platform Step Ladder With Enclosed Tooltray - 4 Tread features a tool tray that closes to avoid dropping items. Keep your drills, drill bits etc. safe and sound on this ladder.

Steel hinges

For a ladder that is sturdy, you'll need to ensure you buy one with steel hinges. These hinges are not only durable and built to last but will hold the ladder together securely, preventing workplace injuries. So, if you want a ladder that won't collapse when stood on, look out for this nifty feature.

Sturdy steel hinges on the Hymer 402408 Anodised Double Sided Aluminium Step Ladder 2 x 4 Tread provide added safety and peace of mind on the job.

Convenient safety top rail

Let's face it: if you've got a fear of heights, a shaky ladder only makes matters worse. But fear not, as many ladders now come with high handrails that help you to maintain your balance. Opt for one with this benefit if you're looking for a new ladder and you don't particularly enjoy the experience of using one.

Show your old, wobbly ladder who's boss by purchasing a brand new one in the form of the Krause 000767 Corda 8 Tread Aluminium Trade Platform Step Ladder, including a convenient safety top rail.

EN131 Professional

This refers to the European standard for safety for portable steps and ladders. So, if you see this listed as a product benefit, you'll know that the ladder has been manufactured and tested to enhance user safety. 'Professional' lets you know that it has been tested for industry, trade and business use, which is all-important when using on the job site.

The Hymer 700462899 Black Line Square Rung Extension Ladder - 2 x 14 Rungs lists its EN131 Professional rating as a key feature.

TÜV approved

Similar to the EN131 Professional certification, this is recognised as a trademark of trust, ensuring a product has been tested to the highest standards in terms of safety. It also confirms that the ladders adhere to the requirements of national, regional and international regulations. Protect yourself by looking out for this feature before buying.

Find the TÜV approved rating on many of our products, like the Krause 033406 Corda Combination Ladder with Stair Function - 3 x 10 Rung.

Last tips

Now you know what makes a ladder 'safe', decide what you need the ladder for and ensure you buy the right one for your needs. Remember to bear in mind:

Height (portable ladders should not exceed 20 feet)
Load capacity (body weight + tools and materials)
Material (aluminium is best for portability + durability)
Type of finish (anodised?)
Where the ladder will be placed (i.e., is it safe to lean against a wall?)
Whether you'll need it for indoor or outdoor use (folding ladders will commonly be used indoors; extension and scaffold tower ladders are better fitted outdoors)

We hope you find what you need in our ever-expanding ladder collection.