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.
What Makes a Ladder Unsuitable for Professional Use?
Although both classifications of ladder undergo similar tests and must have a weight capacity of at least 150kg, professional ladders are subjected to more rigorous durability testing. Professional ladders are required to undergo 50,000 repetitions, whereas Non-Professional ladders only have to withstand 10,000 repetitions.
Therefore, if a ladder has not undergone the correct number of durability repetitions and testing, it is considered unsuitable for professional use.
Examples of Professional Use
You will need a Professional ladder if…
- The ladder is being used in a place of business (e.g. a shop, office or construction site).
- The ladder is being used to access items stored at height in a warehouse.
- The ladder is being used for a physically demanding task (e.g. a task where the worker needs to climb up and down frequently).
- The ladder is regularly in use for long periods of time.
- The ladder is being used to perform maintenance tasks in commercial premises.
Examples of Non-Professional Use
It’s OK to use a Non-Professional ladder if…
- The ladder is being used at home.
- The ladder is being used for light, infrequent tasks (e.g. changing lightbulbs, hanging decorations or reaching shelves).
At Ladders UK Direct, we stock a range of both Professional and Non-Professional ladders, so you’re sure to find exactly what you need on our website!
Professional Ladders Non-Professional Ladders
Feel free to get in touch if you have any questions about ladder classifications.
FURTHER READING: What Counts as ‘Professional Use’ for Ladders?
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