Kitemark schemes for ladders & access equipment
Kitemark schemes for ladders
It is vital any access equipment from ladders, access towers or timber access boards, must be capable of supporting the correct loads in line with its intended use.
In the UK, ladders and step ladders are manufactured in three grades or classifications, according to their safe working load and durability.
All three grades fall within the scope of BS 2037, the British standard for aluminium ladders and bear the Kitemark. The grades are:
Class 1 Industrial – Heavy use –130kg – static load 175kg;
Class 2 Light Trade – 115kg – static load 150kg
Class 3 Domestic – Light usage – 95kg – static load 125kg
It is now HSE policy that all access equipment on construction sites be Class 1 type.
BSI offers Kitemark certification on many of these standards. Rigorous testing includes rung endurance, drop testing on loft ladder hinges, comprehensive strength and durability. Testing is undertaken both at our extensive testing facilities and/or at the manufacturer’s premises. Our testing can also involve working closely with clients testing new products at the developmental stage.
Kitemark for ladders. For further information contact a BSI advisor now.
List of standards for ladders & access equipment
BS 1129
Portable timber ladders, steps, trestles and stagings
BS 2037
Portable aluminium ladders, steps and trestles
BS EN 131 – 1 & 2
Ladders
BS EN 14975: 2006
Loft ladders. Requirements, marking and testing
BS 2482
Timber scaffold boards
BS EN 1004
Mobile access and working towers made of prefabricated materials
Kitemark and CE marking for ladders. For further information contact a BSI advisor now.
