Falls from ladders are one of the leading causes of fatalities, especially in workplace settings. While most ladder injuries are non-fatal, the potential for fatal outcomes does exist. A recent news article from the Blackpool Gazette discusses the case of a 92-year-old Cleveleys pensioner, who died after falling from a 12 foot ladder while trying a fix a roof.

This raises the question: how old is too old to use a ladder? Let’s get into it!

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A recent news report from the BBC discusses how concerns have been raised over the replacement of wooden ladders with a steel alternative on the Grade II listed East Pier in Whitby.

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The current EN131 ladder regulations sort ladders into two classifications: Professional and Non-Professional.

• Ladders rated Professional are designed for demanding workplace environments where tasks typically require extra durability and safety precautions.
  
  
• Ladders rated Non-Professional  are suitable for domestic and at-home DIY jobs, but should not be used for trade or industrial applications.

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The British Standard for ladders is BS EN 131 and it covers all types of portable ladders, including stepladders, extension ladders and combination ladders. The BS EN 131 sets the safety requirements for the design and manufacture of all UK ladders, ensuring they meet specific standards for strength and stability.

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The fundamental reason why ladders have to be inspected is to ensure user safety. However, there are many other key reasons why routine ladder inspections are essential, for example…

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