BS 

EN 131‑3:2018

BSI Standards Publication

Ladders

Part 3: Marking and user instructions

BS EN 131‑3:2018 BRITISH STANDARD

National foreword
This British Standard is the UK implementation of EN 131‑3:2018. It
supersedes BS EN 131‑3:2007, which is withdrawn.
The UK participation in its preparation was entrusted to Technical
Committee B/512, Ladders.
A list of organizations represented on this committee can be obtained on
request to its secretary.
This publication does not purport to include all the necessary provisions
of a contract. Users are responsible for its correct application.
© The British Standards Institution 2018
Published by BSI Standards Limited 2018
ISBN 978 0 580 93550 3
ICS 97.145
Compliance with a British Standard cannot confer immunity from
legal obligations.
This British Standard was published under the authority of the
Standards Policy and Strategy Committee on 28 February 2018.

Amendments/corrigenda issued since publication

Date Text affected
 BS EN 131‑3:2018

EUROPEAN STANDARD EN 131-3

NORME EUROPÉENNE
EUROPÄISCHE NORM January 2018

ICS 97.145 Supersedes EN 131-3:2007

English Version

Ladders - Part 3: Marking and user instructions

Échelles - Partie 3 : Marquage et instructions destinées Leitern - Teil 3: Kennzeichnung und
à l'utilisateur Gebrauchsanleitungen

This European Standard was approved by CEN on 22 October 2017.

CEN members are bound to comply with the CEN/CENELEC Internal Regulations which stipulate the conditions for giving this
European Standard the status of a national standard without any alteration. Up-to-date lists and bibliographical references
concerning such national standards may be obtained on application to the CEN-CENELEC Management Centre or to any CEN
member.

This European Standard exists in three official versions (English, French, German). A version in any other language made by
translation under the responsibility of a CEN member into its own language and notified to the CEN-CENELEC Management
Centre has the same status as the official versions.

CEN members are the national standards bodies of Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia,
Finland, Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania,
Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland,
Turkey and United Kingdom.

EUROPEAN COMMITTEE FOR STANDARDIZATION

COMITÉ EUROPÉEN DE NORMALISATION
EUROPÄISCHES KOMITEE FÜR NORMUNG

CEN-CENELEC Management Centre: Rue de la Science 23, B-1040 Brussels

© 2018 CEN All rights of exploitation in any form and by any means reserved Ref. No. EN 131-3:2018 E
worldwide for CEN national Members.
BS EN 131‑3:2018
EN 131-3:2018 (E)

Contents Page

European foreword....................................................................................................................................................... 3
1 Scope .................................................................................................................................................................... 4
2 Normative references .................................................................................................................................... 4
3 Terms and definitions ................................................................................................................................... 4
4 Provision of safety marking and user instructions............................................................................. 5
5 Reasons for accidents .................................................................................................................................... 6
6 Marking and user instruction ..................................................................................................................... 7
6.1 General ................................................................................................................................................................ 7
6.2 Basic marking on the ladder ....................................................................................................................... 7
6.3 Safety marking and user instructions...................................................................................................... 8
6.3.1 General ................................................................................................................................................................ 8
6.3.2 Safety signs ........................................................................................................................................................ 8
6.3.3 Basic safety marking and user instructions for all ladders ............................................................. 9
6.3.4 Leaning ladders ............................................................................................................................................ 14
6.3.5 Standing ladders ........................................................................................................................................... 16
6.3.6 Combination ladders................................................................................................................................... 18
6.3.7 Extending ladders ........................................................................................................................................ 20
6.3.8 Single or multi-hinge joint ladders ........................................................................................................ 21
6.3.9 Telescopic ladders ....................................................................................................................................... 23
6.3.10 Mobile ladders with platform .................................................................................................................. 24
7 Repair, maintenance and storage .......................................................................................................... 27
Annex A (normative) List of items to be inspected ......................................................................................... 28
Annex B (informative) Storage ............................................................................................................................... 29
Annex C (informative) A-deviations ..................................................................................................................... 30
Bibliography ................................................................................................................................................................. 32

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EN 131-3:2018 (E)

European foreword

This document (EN 131-3:2018) has been prepared by Technical Committee CEN/TC 93 “Ladders”, the
secretariat of which is held by DIN.

This European Standard shall be given the status of a national standard, either by publication of an
identical text or by endorsement, at the latest by July 2018 and conflicting national standards shall be
withdrawn at the latest by July 2018.

Attention is drawn to the possibility that some of the elements of this document may be the subject of
patent rights. CEN [and/or CENELEC] shall not be held responsible for identifying any or all such patent
rights.

This document supersedes EN 131-3:2007.

This document has been prepared under a mandate given to CEN by the European Commission and the
European Free Trade Association.

Compared to EN 131-3:2007, the following changes have been made:

a) clear distinction between provisions for safety marking on the ladder and user instructions;

b) specification of basic safety signs in accordance with ISO 3864-2 and supplementary safety
information symbols;

c) requirements for combination ladders, extending ladders, hinge-joint ladders, telescopic ladders
and mobile ladders with platform added.

This standard is part of a series of standards on “Ladders” that consists of the following parts:

— Part 1: Terms, types, functional sizes;

— Part 2: Requirements, testing, marking;

— Part 3: Marking and user instructions;

— Part 4: Single or multiple hinge-joint ladders;

— Part 6: Telescopic ladders;

— Part 7: Mobile ladders with platform.

According to the CEN-CENELEC Internal Regulations, the national standards organizations of the
following countries are bound to implement this European Standard: Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria,
Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia,
France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta,
Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland,
Turkey and the United Kingdom.

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EN 131-3:2018 (E)

1 Scope
This European Standard advises on the safe use of ladders covered by the scope of EN 131-1 and
fulfilling the requirements of EN 131-1, EN 131-2 and, for single or multiple hinged-joint ladders,
EN 131-4, for telescopic ladders EN 131-6 and for mobile platform ladders EN 131-7.

2 Normative references
The following documents, in whole or in part, are normatively referenced in this document and are
indispensable for its application. For dated references, only the edition cited applies. For undated
references, the latest edition of the referenced document (including any amendments) applies.
EN 131-1, Ladders — Part 1: Terms, types, functional sizes

EN 131-2, Ladders — Part 2: Requirements, testing, marking

EN 82079-1, Preparation of instructions for use — Structuring, content and presentation — Part 1:
General principles and detailed requirements

EN ISO 7010, Graphical symbols — Safety colours and safety signs — Registered safety signs (ISO 7010)

ISO 3864-1, Graphical symbols — Safety colours and safety signs — Part 1: Design principles for safety
signs and safety markings

ISO 3864-3, Graphical symbols — Safety colours and safety signs — Part 3: Design principles for graphical
symbols for use in safety signs

3 Terms and definitions

For the purposes of the document, the terms and definitions given in EN 131-1 and EN 131-2 and the
following apply.
3.1
producer
manufacturer of a product and any other person presenting himself as the manufacturer by affixing to
the product his name, trade mark or other distinctive mark, or the person who reconditions the
product; or

manufacturer's representative, when the manufacturer is not established in the Community or, if there
is no representative established in the Community, the importer of the product; or

other professionals in the supply chain, insofar as their activities may affect the safety properties of a
product

[SOURCE: Directive 2001/95/EC, Chapter 1, Article 2, e)]

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EN 131-3:2018 (E)

3.2
distributor
professional in the supply chain whose activity does not affect the safety properties of a product

Note 1 to entry: The producer and the distributor can be the same legal person.

[SOURCE: Directive 2001/95/EC, Chapter 1, Article 2, f), modified – The Note 1 to entry has been
added.]

3.3
user
person using the ladder

3.4
harm
injury or damage to health of people or damage to property or the environment

[SOURCE: ISO/IEC Guide 51:2014, 3.1]

3.5
hazard
potential source of harm

[SOURCE: ISO/IEC Guide 51:2014, 3.2]

3.6
risk
probable rate of occurrence of a hazard causing harm and the degree of severity of that harm

[SOURCE: ISO/IEC Guide 51:2014, 3.9, modified – The Note 1 to entry was deleted.]

4 Provision of safety marking and user instructions

The producer shall be responsible for the content of the safety marking and user instructions and the
provision of the instructions for each ladder. The safety marking and user instructions shall be in the
language of the country where the ladder is originally placed on the market.
The user instruction shall indicate that it shall be read before using the ladder.
The distributor shall ensure that the safety marking and user instructions are provided for each ladder
and that the user instructions are provided in the official languages of the country where the ladder is
placed on the market.
The following list of text within supplementary safety information symbols need not be translated:
a) max.;

b) min.;

c) H20;

d) Oil,

e) Up;

f) Stop.

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EN 131-3:2018 (E)

5 Reasons for accidents

The following list of hazards and examples of their causes, which is not exhaustive, are common reasons
for accidents encountered when using ladders and are the basis on which the information in this
standard has been developed:
a) loss of stability:

1) incorrect choice of ladder (such as too short, unsuitable task);

2) incorrect positioning of the ladder (such as incorrect angle for leaning ladder or not fully
opening a standing ladder);

3) slide outwards at the bottom (such as bottom of leaning ladders sliding away from the wall);

4) side slip, and top flip for leaning ladders (such as overreaching or fragile top contact surface);

5) falling sideways;

6) condition of the ladder (such as missing anti-slip feet for leaning ladders);

7) stepping off an unsecured ladder at height;

8) ground conditions (such as unstable soft ground, sloping ground, slippery surfaces or
contaminated solid surfaces);

9) adverse weather conditions (such as windy conditions);

10) collision with the ladder (such as vehicle or door);

b) from handling:

1) transferring the ladder to the work position;

2) erecting and dismantling the ladder;

3) carrying items up the ladder;

c) slip, trip and fall of user:

1) inappropriate footwear;

2) contaminated rungs or steps;

3) unsafe user practices (such as climbing two rungs at time, sliding down stiles);

4) ground conditions (such as unstable soft ground, sloping ground, slippery surfaces or
contaminated solid surfaces);

d) structural failure of ladder:

1) condition of the ladder (such as damaged stiles, wear, UV degradation of plastic parts);

2) overloading the ladder;

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3) unintended use;

e) electrical hazards:

1) incorrect selection of type of ladder for electrical work;

2) unavoidable live working (e.g. fault finding);

3) positioning ladders too close to live electrical equipment (such as overhead power lines);

4) ladders damaging electrical equipment (such as covers or protective insulation).

6 Marking and user instruction

6.1 General

All marking detailed under Clause 6 shall be fixed permanently, according to EN 131-2, to the ladder
surface.
In 6.3, the minimum requirements for marking and user instructions are specified.
The user instruction shall list the items to be inspected and checked. The minimum list of items is
shown in Annex A. Details of how to obtain the pass/fail criteria shall be in the user instructions or
marked on the ladder;
The user instruction shall be supplied with the ladder and should be made available on the producer's
website also.
The user instruction shall include identity and address of the producer and/or distributor including
website address.
User instructions shall repeat all safety markings which are on the ladder.
The maximum number of safety signs should be reduced to a number that users are able to identify and
comply with when using the ladder.
6.2 Basic marking on the ladder

Basic marking information may be given in the form of safety signs or text. The marking shall include:
a) identity and address of the producer and/or distributor including website address for information
about the ladder;

NOTE EU Directive 2001/95/EC requires an address of the distributor inside the European Community
if the producer is established outside the European Community.

b) type of ladder and possible modes of use (description of the type, number and length of the parts,
maximum length of ladder in use, maximum standing height measured in position of use according
to the recommendation of the manufacturer);

c) classification of use “professional” or “non-professional” as specified in EN 131-2;

d) number of the general standard EN 131 or if a dedicated standard exists (e.g. a multi-hinge ladder
according to EN 131-4) the number of this standard (e.g. EN 131-4).;

e) month and year of production and/or serial number (may also be stamped);

f) weight of the ladder (in kg) and maximal total load (in kg);

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EN 131-3:2018 (E)

g) insulation, if any.

Information a), b), c) and f) shall also appear on the packaging or be otherwise clearly visible to the
consumer before the purchase.
6.3 Safety marking and user instructions
6.3.1 General

The basic safety marking shall be attached to all ladders and ladder parts which can be used separately
as an easily viewed symbol.
The marking to indicate the top most rung/step that shall be used for standing on, shall be placed:
— on the stile of the ladder adjacent to or on the last /allowed; or

— on the first /not allowed rung/step; or

— on the label for safety marking.

NOTE 1 EU Directive 2001/45/EC requires that a secure handhold and secure support is available to the user
at all times.

The user instructions shall be written in the official languages of the country where the ladder is placed
on the market in accordance with EN 82079-1.
NOTE 2 According to EN 82079-1 the minimum size of text in the user instruction is 9 PT.

6.3.2 Safety signs

6.3.2.1 Basic safety signs

The geometric shape of basic safety signs shall be in accordance with ISO 3864-1, ISO 3864-3 and be
based upon the EN ISO 7010 template for safety signs with a minimum size d and h of 15 mm
(see Figure 1).

a) Prohibition sign b) Mandatory c) Warning sign d) Safe condition

action sign sign

Figure 1 — Basic safety signs according to ISO 3864-1

6.3.2.2 Supplementary safety information symbols

The supplementary safety information symbols are meant to instruct the user of a ladder about what is
necessary and what is not allowed for a safe use of a ladder in order to avoid accidents e.g. by falling
from the ladder. “Necessary” is indicated by a green tick and “Not allowed” is indicated by a red X (see
examples in Figure 2).

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EN 131-3:2018 (E)

Compared to the basic safety signs according to 6.3.2.1 supplementary safety information symbols may
include numbers, letters and more detailed (finer) symbols.
The minimum height h of supplementary safety information symbols is 15 mm.

a) Necessary action b) Not allowed

Figure 2 — Supplementary safety information symbols

6.3.3 Basic safety marking and user instructions for all ladders

Table 1 shows the minimum requirements for safety marking, user instructions and the mandatory
symbols for all ladders.

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EN 131-3:2018 (E)

Table 1 — Minimum basic requirements for safety marking and user instructions for all ladders

No. Item / Text Safety User Symbol

marking instruction
(Symbol) (Text or text
and symbol)

1 Warning, fall from the ladder. X X

This warning sign shall appear on each
marking on the ladder at the first place.

EN ISO 7010-W008

2 Refer to instruction manual/booklet X X

EN ISO 7010-M002

3 Inspect the ladder after delivery. Before every X X

use visually check the ladder is not damaged
and is safe to use.
Do not use a damaged ladder.

4 Maximum total load X X

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No. Item / Text Safety User Symbol

marking instruction
(Symbol) (Text or text
and symbol)

5 Do not use the ladder on a unlevel or unfirm X X

base.

6 Do not overreach. X X

7 Do not erect ladder on contaminated ground. X

8 Maximum number of users X X

9 Do not ascend or descend unless you are X

facing the ladder.

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EN 131-3:2018 (E)

No. Item / Text Safety User Symbol

marking instruction
(Symbol) (Text or text
and symbol)

10 Keep a secure grip on the ladder when X

ascending and descending. Maintain a
handhold whilst working from a ladder or
take additional safety precautions if you
cannot.

11 Avoid work that imposes a sideways load on X

ladders, such as side-on drilling through solid
materials.

12 Do not carry equipment which is heavy or X

difficult to handle while using a ladder.

13 Do not wear unsuitable footwear when X

climbing a ladder.

14 Do not use the ladder if you are not fit enough. X

Certain medical conditions or medication,
alcohol or drug abuse could make ladder use
unsafe.

15 Do not spend long periods on a ladder X −

without regular breaks (tiredness is a risk).

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No. Item / Text Safety User Symbol

marking instruction
(Symbol) (Text or text
and symbol)

16 Prevent damage of the ladder when X −

transporting e.g. by fastening and, ensure they
are suitably placed to prevent damage.

17 Ensure the ladder is suitable for the task. X −

18 Do not use the ladder if contaminated, e.g. X −

with wet paint, mud, oil or snow.

19 Do not use the ladder outside in adverse X −

weather conditions, such as strong wind .

20 For professional use a risk assessment shall X −

be carried out respecting the legislation in the
country of use.

21 When positioning the ladder take into account X −

risk of collision with the ladder e.g. from
pedestrians, vehicles or doors. Secure doors
(not fire exits) and windows where possible
in the work area.

22 Warning, electricity hazard X

Identify any electrical risks in the work area, X
such as overhead lines or other exposed
electrical equipment and do not use the
ladder where electrical risks occur.

EN ISO 7010-W012

23 Use non-conductive ladders for unavoidable X −

live electrical work.

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EN 131-3:2018 (E)

No. Item / Text Safety User Symbol

marking instruction
(Symbol) (Text or text
and symbol)

24 Do not use the ladder as a bridge. X

25 Do not modify the ladder design. X −

26 Do not move a ladder while standing on it. X −

27 For outdoor use caution to the wind. X −

28 If a ladder is delivered with stabilizer bars X X

and these bars should be fixed by the user
before the first use this shall be described on
the ladder and in the user instruction.

29 Ladder for domestic use X X

30 Ladder for professional use X X

6.3.4 Leaning ladders

Table 2 shows in addition to the basic requirements (see 6.3.3) the minimum requirements for safety
marking, user instructions and the mandatory symbols for leaning ladders.

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EN 131-3:2018 (E)

Table 2 — Additional requirements for safety marking and user instructions for leaning ladders

No. Item / Text Safety User Symbol

marking instruction
(Symbol) (Text or
text and
symbol)

1 Leaning ladders with X X

rungs shall be used at
the correct angle.

2 Leaning ladders with X X

steps shall be used
that the steps are in a
horizontal position.

3 Ladders used for X X

access to a higher
level shall be
extended at least 1 m
above the landing
point and secured, if
necessary.

4 Only use the ladder in X X

the direction as
indicated, only if
necessary due to
design of ladder.

5 Do not lean the ladder X X

against unsuitable
surfaces.

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EN 131-3:2018 (E)

No. Item / Text Safety User Symbol

marking instruction
(Symbol) (Text or
text and
symbol)

6 Ladder shall never be X −

moved from the top.

7 Do not stand on the X X

top three steps/rungs
of a leaning ladder.
For telescopic ladders
the last metre shall
not be used
(see 6.3.9).

6.3.5 Standing ladders

Table 3 shows in addition to the basic requirements (see 6.3.3) the minimum requirements for safety
marking, user instructions and the mandatory symbols for standing ladders.

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EN 131-3:2018 (E)

Table 3 — Additional requirements for safety marking and user instructions for standing
ladders

No. Item / Text Safety User Symbol

marking instruction
(Symbol) (Text or
text and
symbol)

1 Do not step off the X X

side of standing
ladder onto another
surface.

2 Open the ladder X X

fully before use.

3 Use the ladder with X

restraint devices
engaged only.

4 Standing ladders X
shall not be used as
a leaning ladder
unless it is designed
to do so.

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EN 131-3:2018 (E)

No. Item / Text Safety User Symbol

marking instruction
(Symbol) (Text or
text and
symbol)

5 Do not stand on the X X

top two steps/rungs
of a standing ladder
without a platform
and a hand/knee
rail.

6 Any horizontal X X
surface which looks
like a platform on a
standing ladder that
is not designed for
standing on (e.g. a
plastic work tray)
shall be clearly
indicated on that EN ISO 7010-P024
surface, (only if
necessary due to
design of ladder).

6.3.6 Combination ladders

Where a combination ladder is designed to be used as a leaning ladder, the safety marking and user
instructions shall comply with the requirements of 6.3.4.
Where a combination ladder is designed to be used as a standing ladder, the safety marking and user
instructions shall comply with 6.3.5.
Table 4 shows in addition to the requirements of 6.3.3 and 6.3.4 and/or 6.3.5 where relevant, the
minimum requirements for safety marking, user instructions and the mandatory symbols for
combination ladders.
NOTE See EN 131–1 for the definition of a combination ladder.

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Table 4 — Additional requirements for safety marking and safety instructions for combination
ladders

No. Item / Text Safety User Symbol

marking instruction
(Symbol) (Text or
text and
Symbol)

1 Do not climb X X
above the rung or (to be
tread indicated
recommended by on the
the producer, of a rung)
combination
ladder used in
the standing
ladder position,
with extending
ladder at the top
(see Figure 3) or
in the stairway
position
(see Figure 4).
The minimum
requirement shall
always be: Do not
climb above the
top four
steps/rungs.
When the safety
marking is
indicated on the
rung, the
minimum height
of these symbols
shall be 15 mm
and the minimum
width shall be
30 mm. X X
Alternatively, the (to be
rungs or treads indicated
not to be used on the
may be indicated ladder))
on the ladder.

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EN 131-3:2018 (E)

No. Item / Text Safety User Symbol

marking instruction
(Symbol) (Text or
text and
Symbol)

2 Locking devices X X
shall be checked
and be fully
secured before
use if not
operated
automatically.

The symbol shows a particular design which might

differ from the real product. The manufacturer may
use a different symbol showing the particular
design of his specific product.

Figure 3 — Combination ladder in standing ladder position with extending ladder at the top

a) b)

Figure 4 — Combination ladder in stairway position

6.3.7 Extending ladders

Table 5 shows in addition to the requirements of 6.3.3 and 6.3.4 the minimum requirements for safety
marking, user instructions and the mandatory symbols for extending ladders.
NOTE See EN 131–1 for the definition of an extending ladder.

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Table 5 — Additional requirements for safety marking and user instructions for extending
ladders

No. Item / Text Safety User Symbol

marking instruction
(Symbol) (Text or text
and symbol)

1 Locking devices shall X X

be checked and be
fully secured before
use if not operated
automatically.

The symbol shows a particular design which

might differ from the real product. The
manufacturer may use a different symbol
showing the particular design of his specific
product.

2 The loose end of the X −

rope shall be tied to
the ladder (only if
necessary due to
design of ladder).

6.3.8 Single or multi-hinge joint ladders

Where a single or multi-hinge joint ladder is designed to be used as a leaning ladder, the safety marking
and user instructions shall comply with the requirements of 6.3.4.
Where a single or multi-hinge joint ladder is designed to be used as a standing ladder, the safety
marking and user instructions shall comply with 6.3.5.
Table 6 shows in addition to the requirements of 6.3.3 and 6.3.4 and/or 6.3.5 and 6.3.7 where relevant,
the minimum requirements for safety marking, user instructions and the mandatory symbols for single
or multi-hinge joint ladders.
NOTE See EN 131-4 for the definition of single or multi-hinge joint ladders.

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Table 6 — Additional requirements for safety marking and safety instructions for single or
multi-hinge joint ladders

No. Item / Text Safety User Symbol

marking instruction
(Symbol) (Text or
text and
symbol)

1 Single or multiple joint X −

ladders should be
unfolded/folded when lying
on the ground and not in its
use position.

2 If the ladder is used as a X X

platform, only deckings
recommended by the ladder
producer shall be used. The
decking shall be secured
before use (only if
necessary due to design of
ladder).

3 Prohibited positions X
(see EN 131–4:2007,
Clause 7): M-position,
upside-down position (only
if necessary due to design of
ladder).

4 Max. load of platform in X X

scaffold position
(see EN 131–4:2007,
Clause 7) declared by the
manufacturer (120 kg to
150 kg) (only if necessary
due to design of ladder).

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No. Item / Text Safety User Symbol

marking instruction
(Symbol) (Text or
text and
symbol)

5 Ensure that the hinges are X X

locked.

The symbol shows a particular design

which might differ from the real
product. The manufacturer may use a
different symbol showing the
particular design of his specific
product.

6.3.9 Telescopic ladders

Where a telescopic ladder is designed to be used as a leaning ladder, the safety marking and user
instructions shall comply with the requirements of 6.3.4.
Where a telescopic ladder is designed to be used as a standing ladder, the safety marking and user
instructions shall comply with 6.3.5.
Table 7 shows in addition to the requirements of 6.3.3 and 6.3.4 and/or 6.3.5 where relevant, the
minimum requirements for safety marking, user instructions and the mandatory symbols for telescopic
ladders.
NOTE See EN 131-6 for the definition of telescopic ladders.

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EN 131-3:2018 (E)

Table 7 — Additional requirements for safety marking and user instructions for telescopic
ladders

No. Item /Text Safety User Symbol

marking instruction
(Symbol) (Text or text
and symbol)

1 All locking mechanisms X X

for all extended
rungs/steps shall be
checked and be locked
before use.

2 Instruction for X −
handling of locking
mechanisms including
indication of locked or
unlocked position.

3 Do not bring your X X

hands / fingers in rung
area
(area of shearing)
when bringing the
ladder in to its possible
positions of use.

The symbol shows a particular design

which might differ from the real product.
The manufacturer may use a different
symbol showing the particular design of his
specific product.

4 Do not stand on the last X X

metre of a telescopic
ladder.

6.3.10 Mobile ladders with platform

Table 8 shows in addition to the basic requirements (see 6.3.3) the additional requirements for safety
marking, user instructions and the mandatory symbols for mobile ladders with platform.
NOTE See EN 131-7 for the definition of mobile ladders with platform.

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 BS EN 131‑3:2018
EN 131-3:2018 (E)

Table 8 — Additional requirements for safety marking and user instructions for mobile ladders
with platform

No. Item / Text Safety User Symbol

marking instruction
(Symbol) (Text or
text and
symbol)

1 Do not step off the side of the X

mobile platform ladder onto
another surface.

2 Fully open before use X X

(foldable mobile platform
ladders).

3 Use the ladder with restraint X

devices engaged only (only if
necessary due to design of
ladder).

4 Any horizontal surface which X X

looks like a platform on a
mobile platform ladder that is
not designed for standing on
(e.g. a plastic work tray) shall
be clearly indicated on that
surface, (only if necessary due
to design of ladder).

EN ISO 7010-P024

25
BS EN 131‑3:2018
EN 131-3:2018 (E)

No. Item / Text Safety User Symbol

marking instruction
(Symbol) (Text or
text and
symbol)

5 Use only with stabilizer (if X X

part of the ladder).

The symbol shows a particular design

which might differ from the real
product. The manufacturer may use a
different symbol showing the particular
design of his specific product.

6 Use only with ballast (if part X X

of the ladder).

The symbol shows a particular design

which might differ from the real
product. The manufacturer may use a
different symbol showing the particular
design of his specific product.

7 Use only with activated X X

brakes (if part of the ladder).

8 Do not use ladders outdoors X X

which are not intended for
this purpose.

26
 BS EN 131‑3:2018
EN 131-3:2018 (E)

7 Repair, maintenance and storage

Repairs and maintenance shall be carried out by a competent person and be in accordance with the
producer’s instructions.
NOTE A competent person is someone who has the skills to carry out repairs or maintenance, e.g. by a
training by the manufacturer.

For repair and replacement of parts, e.g. feet, if necessary contact the producer or distributor.
Ladders should be stored in accordance with the producer's instructions.
Ladders made of or using thermoplastic, thermosetting plastic and reinforced plastic materials should
be stored out of direct sunlight.
Ladders made of wood should be stored in a dry place and shall not be coated with opaque and vapour-
tight paints.

27
BS EN 131‑3:2018
EN 131-3:2018 (E)

Annex A
(normative)

List of items to be inspected

For regular inspection, the following items shall be taken into account:
— check that the stiles/legs (uprights) are not bent, bowed, twisted, dented, cracked, corroded or
rotten;

— check that the stiles/legs around the fixing points for other components are in good condition;

— check that fixings (usually rivets, screws or bolts) are not missing, loose, or corroded;

— check that rungs/steps are not missing, loose, excessively worn, corroded or damaged;

— check that the hinges between front and rear sections are not damaged, loose or corroded;

— check that the locking stays horizontal, back rails and corner braces are not missing, bent, loose,
corroded or damaged;

— check that the rung hooks are not missing, damaged, loose or corroded and engage properly on the;
rungs;

— check that guide brackets are not missing, damaged, loose or corroded and engage properly on the
mating stile;

— check that ladder feet / end caps are not missing, loose, excessively worn, corroded or damaged;

— check that the entire ladder is free from contaminants (e.g. dirt, mud, paint, oil or grease);

— check that locking catches (if fitted) are not damaged or corroded and function correctly;

— check that the platform (if fitted) has no missing parts or fixings and is not damaged or corroded.

If any of the above checks cannot be fully satisfied, you should NOT use the ladder.
For special ladder types, further items identified by the manufacturer shall be taken into account.

28
 BS EN 131‑3:2018
EN 131-3:2018 (E)

Annex B
(informative)

Storage

The important considerations when storing a ladder (not in use) should include the following:
— Is the ladder stored away from areas where its condition could deteriorate more rapidly
(e.g. dampness, excessive heat, or exposed to the elements)?

— Is the ladder stored in a position which helps it to remain straight (e.g. hung by the stiles on proper
ladder brackets or laid on a flat clutter free surface)?

— Is the ladder stored where it cannot be damaged by vehicles, heavy objects, or contaminants?

— Is the ladder stored where it cannot cause a trip hazard or an obstruction?

— Is the ladder stored securely where it cannot be easily used for criminal purposes?

— If the ladder is permanently positioned (e.g. on scaffolding), is it secured against unauthorized

climbing (e.g. by children)?

29
BS EN 131‑3:2018
EN 131-3:2018 (E)

Annex C
(informative)

A-deviations

A-deviation: National deviation due to regulations, the alteration of which is for the time being outside
the competence of the CEN/CENELEC member.
This European Standard does not fall under any Directive of the EU.
In the relevant CEN/CENELEC countries these A-deviations are valid instead of the provisions of the
European Standard until they have been removed.
Country: National regulation
Sweden AFS 2004:3 Arbetsmiljöverkets föreskrifter om stegar
och arbetsbockar samt allmänna råd om tillämpningen
av föreskrifterna. (Provisions and General
Recommendations of the Swedish Work Environment
Authority on Ladders and Trestles.)
6.3.6, Table 4 (line 1), Figure 3 and Figure 4 These alternatives may not be shown in the Swedish
b) are in conflict with Article 14 of the instructions for use, and there may not be any
provisions. indication on a rung that could be on the extending
The text in column 2 of Table 4, line 1 and ladder part.
the symbols in column 4 indicates that the
extending ladder part may be stepped on.
The figures also show standing ladders with
extending parts.

Country: National regulation

The Netherlands
6.3.5, Table 3, No. 5.
Item 5 prescribes to not stand on the top
two steps/ rungs of a standing ladder
without a platform and a hand/knee rail
6.3.6, Table 4, the text and symbols suggest Dutch legislation (Besluit draagbaar klimmaterieel,
that the extending ladder parts may be bijlage, B9) prohibits to climb the extended third-part
stepped on.
Dutch Portable Climbing Equipment (Commodities
Act) Decree. (Besluit draagbaar klimmaterieel).
Regulation Further Requirments Portable Climbing
Equipment (Regeling nadere eisen draagbaar
klimmaterieel)
Dutch legislation (Besluit draagbaar klimmaterieel,
bijlage, C3) prohibits to climb portable climbing
equipment without a platform higher than the fourth
rung from the top.
In addition to this Regulation further requirements
portable climbing equipment, Article 3 states that all
portable climbing equipment with platforms shall have
a hand-/knee rail of at least 60 cm measured between
the platform and the hand-knee rail. When this hand-
knee rail is extended and in use position, the ladder
can be climbed to the maximum level.
of a combination ladder which is above the hinge-
point.

30

Country:
France
6.3.3, Table 1, 6.3.4, Table 2, 6.3.4, Table 3
6.3.3, Table 1, 6.3.4, Table 2, 6.3.4, Table 3
BS EN 131‑3:2018
EN 131-3:2018 (E)
National regulation
Décret n°96–333 du 10 avril 1996 relatif à la sécurité
des consommateurs en ce qui concerne les échelles
portables, escabeaux et marchepieds (Decree n°96–
333 of the 10 April 1996 on consumer safety with
regard to portable ladders, step ladders and steps, the
marking of the ladders).
Addition of the marking “conforme aux exigences de
sécurité du décret 96-333” in each table
Addition of pictograms for electrical hazard,
maintenance conditions, the prohibition to use the
product as a gateway, the setting direction
31
BS EN 131‑3:2018
EN 131-3:2018 (E)

Bibliography

[1] EN 131–4, Ladders — Part 4: Single or multiple hinge-joint ladders

[2] EN 131-6, Ladders — Part 6: Telescopic ladders

[3] EN 131-7, Ladders — Part 7: Mobile ladders with platform

[4] ISO 3864-2, Graphical symbols — Safety colours and safety signs — Part 2: Design principles for
product safety labels

[5] ISO 9186-1, Graphical symbols — Test methods — Part 1: Method for testing comprehensibility

[6] ISO 9186-2, Graphical symbols — Test methods — Part 2: Method for testing perceptual quality

[7] ISO/IEC Guide 51:2014, Safety aspects — Guidelines for their inclusion in standards

[8] Directive 2001/45/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 27 June 2001 amending
Council Directive 89/655/EEC concerning the minimum safety and health requirements for the
use of work equipment by workers at work

[9] Directive 2001/95/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 3 December 2001 on
general product safety

32
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