Testing 1-2-3! Should You Test Your Ladder?

There is a common misconception that testing step ladders can cause a weakness in the equipment. However, in reality the only kind of ladder that will weaken under testing is one that is not actually fit for the test.

Some companies have a policy of using their own maintenance team to carry out regular checks to their ladders. Once the equipment has passed, a sticker is applied which approves the equipment and indicates when the next test is due. However most tests that are suitable for a standard ladder are actually visual rather than weight bearing.

The key indicators of a potentially dangerous ladder are when the equipment is worn or showing signs of weakness. This could be when the treads on the rungs are eroded, if there are signs of bowing or rust on the ladder or if the feet are worn and no longer gripping.


In fact, any physical defect could be an indicator of a much bigger problem and it is always wise to give your ladder a visual check at the start of each day, especially when equipment has been left over night on a building site and could have been tampered with.

If you want to test the weight bearing ability of your step ladder, then make sure you have fully understood the maximum load of the equipment and ensure any trial does not exceed this.

Remember, the weight that your ladder can bare not only includes the physical weight shown when you step on the scales, but also equipment you may be carrying and even the weight of your clothes.

Any ladder that has achieved British Safety or European equivalent standards has already been rigorously checked, but it may give you peace of mind to see that a ladder can carry its maximum weight before you challenge it with your own body.

By ensuring you lay down your ladder during breaks to avoid accidents or unauthorised personnel using your ladder and take care of your equipment, a short visual check before each job is all you need to be ready to go.

Joelle, Sterk Sytems