Checklist for safe ladders with DIN EN 131 certification

At Henchman, we are always committed to ladder safety and safe working at heights. Our tripod ladders are designed for uneven ground, making them the perfect ladder for use in the garden. Henchman tripod ladders are certified to EN 131 and carry the BSI test mark.

Why is certification of ladders important?

Working at height regulations dictate that you are legally responsible for the safety of your employees and the public. As a professional or business, you need to be able to rely on the equipment you use and provide, so it is essential to ensure that the ladder is suitable for the work you are doing and that it is reliable in terms of design, strength and build quality. Our fully adjustable PRO tripod ladder is designed for professionals who use the ladder on a daily basis.

When you use a Henchman tripod ladder correctly, you can rest assured that you will feel safe and stable when working in the yard or around the house, even on uneven ground.

What is the DIN EN 131 standard and what is the BSI Kitemark?

The British Standards Institution is the national standards body in the United Kingdom. EN 131 is a harmonized standard of the European Committee for Standardization for portable steps and ladders made from metal and certain other materials such as aluminium. It covers the minimum safety requirements and provisions for ladders.

In short, this means that our tripod ladders have undergone rigorous testing, a range of safety checks and are manufactured to the highest quality standards, making them the only certified tripod ladders on the market in the UK and EU.

We have chosen to Kitemark certify our ladders because this certification goes far beyond product testing, it also takes into account all aspects of the supply chain, so you can be confident that the ladders you receive are suitable for the job you are doing.

Why use a tripod ladder when working on uneven ground?

Most gardens are not level, so you need a ladder that will keep you level and stable. Henchman's fully adjustable tripod ladders have three independently adjustable legs, so you can keep the ladder level on uneven terrain such as slopes, ditches and steps, giving you extra stability. The tripod design allows the ladder to form a wider base and ensures that all feet remain firmly in contact with the ground. The claws on the foot provide a better grip on softer ground and increase stability. On hard surfaces, you should fit the rubber feet to avoid slipping.

How can I ensure I stay safe on a tripod ladder?

Proper installation and use

• When setting up your tripod ladder, you first need to make sure it is level by adjusting the legs accordingly. You can check this by looking from the side to see if the chain is straight.
• Never pull the ladder towards you. This also applies to tripod ladders. Lean forward when climbing the ladder.
• When working, always make sure to keep your weight on the back leg of the tripod ladder so that you do not reach over the end.
• When working on hard surfaces, attach the rubber feet to prevent damage to the claws and provide additional grip.

Inspection and regular maintenance of the ladder

Regular ladder inspections are a must. If your ladder has not been used for a while, such as over the winter, you should perform the safety checks below before using it. If you use your ladder regularly, these checks should be performed more frequently.

Checklist for Inspection of Ladders

To help you thoroughly inspect your ladder, we have put together this short checklist to help you work safely and reliably.

• Rails and legs : Check that they are not bent, twisted, dented, cracked or rusted.
• Fasteners and welds : Check that they are not missing, loose, rusted or damaged.
• Rungs/Treads : Check that none are missing, loose, excessively worn, rusted or damaged.
• Hinges : Check between the front and rear sections for damage, loose parts or corrosion.
• Carabiners, back rail and corner braces : Check that nothing is missing, bent, loose, rusted or damaged.
• Ladder feet : Check that nothing is missing, loose, excessively worn, corroded or damaged.
• Entire ladder : Check that it is free from contaminants such as dirt, mud, paint, oil or grease.
• Locks : Make sure they are working properly and that nothing is damaged or corroded.
• Platforms : Check that nothing is missing or needs repair. Check for damage and corrosion.

Henchman offers a wide range of EN 131 certified ladders that ensure maximum safety and stability on uneven ground. With a solid construction and practical features, our tripod ladders are the ideal choice for professionals and DIYers alike.

Discover the complete range of safe ladders from Henchman now!