Like with any type of ladder, if you buy one that is certified to EN131, it is likely to be very safe as long as you use it as per the manufacturer’s instructions. No risks should be taken when using these types of ladder and they should be properly stored and maintained to retain their safety and effectiveness.
For a telescopic ladder to meet the most up to date EN131-6 standards they should match the following criteria…
- Rungs need to be 50% bigger than standard telescopic ladders and angled for maximum grip and comfort.
- Include a new safety closure system that slows the ladder’s descent o ensure the climber’s hands are protected from injury,
- Each rung should have a visual lock and release indicator to tell the climber when it is safe to go up the ladder.
- An ergonomically designed locking mechanism, for comfort and to make it easy to use.
- Feet being are over-moulded with strong synthetic rubber to maximise contact with the ground and grip.
- Extension ladders that are longer than 3 metres need to have a stabiliser bar in accordance with the new regulations.
What do you need to know before buying a telescopic ladder?
Safety
Not all telescopic ladders work in the exact same way, so it is important to familiarise yourself with different types to find the right one for your needs and be sure to read all instructions that come with your new ladder. When you open, extend, or close telescopic ladders, you should be careful not to move too quickly as this can risk damaging the mechanisms and jeopardise the ladder’s safety.
Before stepping onto the ladder, ensure it is at the right angle and that the feet are stable against a solid surface. It is also essential that you do not try to lock the mechanisms whilst they are in use.
Maintenance and storage
Telescopic ladders should always be kept in a clean, dry place away from severe weather and the location should also be far away from anything that could potentially fall onto the ladder. When it comes to cleaning, all that is normally needed is a regular wipe down with a clean, dry cloth. Moisture on the ladder should always be avoided unless instructions say otherwise, as it can have a negative effect on the mechanisms.
How to use a telescopic ladder
When safely extending a telescopic ladder, follow the below steps
- Remove the strap that is keeping the retracted ladder in place
- Place the ladder in an upright position, ready to be used
- To keep the ladder securely in place, step on the bottom rung
- Using both hands, remove the top rung’s connector
- Before starting to extend the next rung, pull each rung to its full extension and check that the locking mechanism is in place
- Continue in this way for several steps until you get to the desired height
- The fourth rung down from the top is the highest rung you should step on when using any extension ladder
There are some things that should be avoided when using a telescopic ladder. Firstly, you should never try to adjust the rungs while you are using the ladder as this will tamper with the ladder’s locking mechanism.
Also, ensure the ladder is positioned on a clean floor, and lastly, don’t try to add height to the ladder by putting objects underneath it. Taking these steps when using your telescopic ladder will help you avoid risks and get the most and safest use out of your telescopic ladder.
Retracting the ladder
When you have finished using the telescopic ladder, you will need to collapse it ready for storage. You should be equally careful when doing this as you were setting up the ladder. The most common safety measure when retracting a telescopic ladder is to avoid putting your hands in between the rungs.
Explore our range of telescopic ladders at BPS Access Solutions today and contact our friendly team if you have any questions.
