Step Ladder FAQ – Comprehensive Guide Across Types, Ratings & Safe Usage
Ladder Type Comparison – Load, Use Case, and Electrical Safety
| LADDER TYPE | SABS TYPE | STATIC LOAD (SL) | DYNAMIC LOAD (DL) | BEST USE CASE | ELECTRICAL SAFE? |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Household Step Ladder | Type 3 | ±100 kg | ±91–113 kg | Light indoor maintenance | ❌ No |
| Trade Step Ladder | Type 2 | ±115 kg | ±113 kg | Contractors, moderate tools | ❌ No |
| Industrial Step Ladder | Type 1 | ±135–150 kg | ±136 kg | Daily workshop/site use | ❌ No (unless fibreglass) |
| Platform Ladder | Type 1 | ±135–150 kg | ±136 kg | Warehousing, prolonged tasks | ✅ Fibreglass Models Only |
| Fibreglass Ladder | Type 1/2 | ±115–135 kg | ±113–136 kg | Electrical or live environments | ✅ Yes – Required |
| 5-in-1 / Multi Ladder | Type 1 | ±135–150 kg | ±136 kg | Fieldwork, stair use | ⚠ Only if fibreglass |
| Extension Ladder | Type 1 | ±135–150 kg | ±136–150 kg | Roof/wall access | ❌ No (unless fibreglass) |
| Telescopic Ladder | ⚠ Varies | ⚠ Varies | ⚠ Varies | Compact storage & transport | ⚠ Check SABS compliance |
Ladders are vital tools in homes, workshops, and job sites — but selecting and using the right ladder is not just about convenience. It’s a critical part of personal and workplace safety.
This guide has been developed by Adendorff Machinery Mart to equip customers, contractors, and staff with essential knowledge on:
- Ladder types and classifications (based on intended use and load capacity)
- Safe selection, setup, and use across different environments
- Correct care and maintenance to extend product life and ensure reliability
- Understanding certification standards such as SABS SANS 50131, EN131, and ANSI
One of the most important safety factors when selecting a ladder is knowing the difference between Static Load (SL) and Dynamic Load (DL):
- Static Load (SL): The maximum weight the ladder can support when the user and tools are stationary and evenly balanced under ideal conditions.
- Dynamic Load (DL): The safe working weight during real-world use — including movement, shifting weight, or tool handling — which is lower than the SL due to added force and instability.
⚠️ Always base your selection on the Dynamic Load (DL), not just the Static Load (SL) shown on the label. Choosing the wrong ladder can result in instability, wear, or serious injury.
This guide helps ensure that all ladder selections at Adendorff are made with practical application, safety compliance, and user protection in mind.
A. Ladder Types Explained
Understanding Ladder Types and Their SABS Classification
Ladders used in South Africa are generally classified according to SABS SANS 50131 into three categories based on load capacity and intended use:
| SABS TYPE | TYPICAL USE | STATIC LOAD (SL) | DYNAMIC LOAD (DL) | EXAMPLES |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| TYPE 3 | Household / Domestic | ±100 kg | ±91–113 kg | Basic step ladders for indoor use |
| TYPE 2 | Trade / Light Commercial | ±115 kg | ±113 kg | Contractor ladders, trade step ladders |
| TYPE 1 | Industrial / Professional | ±135–150 kg | ±136 kg | Platform ladders, fibreglass, multi ladders |
⚠ Always verify the ladder’s label to confirm its SABS type rating, SL, and DL.
2. Common Ladder Types Explained
| LADDER TYPE | DESCRIPTION | TYPICAL SABS TYPE |
|---|---|---|
| Household Step Ladder | Light-duty, folding A-frame for home use | Type 3 |
| Trade Step Ladder | Medium-duty, for contractors or DIY use | Type 2 |
| Industrial Step Ladder | Heavy-duty A-frame for daily site or workshop use | Type 1 |
| Fibreglass Ladder | Non-conductive ladder for electrical work | Type 1 or Type 2 |
| Extension Ladder | Lean-to straight ladder for accessing height | Type 1 |
| 5-in-1 / Combination Ladder | Converts between step, extension, scaffold, and more | Type 1 |
| Platform Ladder | Wide standing surface with guardrails, ideal for warehouse or long duration use | Type 1 |
| Double-Sided Step Ladder | Usable from both sides for productivity or shared use | Type 1 or Type 2 |
| Telescopic Ladder | Collapsible straight ladder for compact storage and portability | ⚠ Varies – Check SABS Compliance |
⚠ Telescopic and multi-function ladders may not always meet SABS SANS 50131. Always check certification and actual load labelling.
B. Load Ratings & SABS Ladder Types (Per SANS 50131)
What is the Difference Between Load Capacity and User Weight?
| TERM | MEANING |
|---|---|
| Maximum User Weight | The user’s body weight (including clothing). |
| Load Capacity (SL) | The Static Load (SL) is the total weight supported under stationary, ideal lab conditions. |
| Safe Working Load (DL) | The Dynamic Load (DL) (or SWL) is the realistic weight supported under movement and real use. |
⚠ Example: If SL = 135 kg and the user weighs 95 kg, only 40 kg of tools can be safely carried at rest. Under dynamic conditions, DL is lower.
Standard Ladder Types and Their Load Ratings
| LADDER TYPE | USE CATEGORY | STATIC LOAD (SL) | TYPICAL USE |
|---|---|---|---|
| Type 3 | Household | ±100 kg | Light-duty indoor use |
| Type 2 | Trade / DIY | ±115 kg | Moderate use with light tools |
| Type 1 | Industrial | ±135–150 kg | Regular, heavy-duty site use |
Are the Ladders Safety Certified?
Yes. Quality ladders are designed and tested to comply with recognised national or international safety standards. These standards specify manufacturing quality, load performance, and safety features.
| STANDARD | REGION | KEY COVERAGE |
|---|---|---|
| SABS SANS 50131 | South Africa | Based on EN131. Defines Type 1–3 ladders, max total static load: 150 kg |
| EN131 (Part 1–3) | Europe | Applies to portable ladders. Includes strength tests, deflection, durability |
| ANSI A14.x Series | United States | Industrial (Type 1A/1AA), commercial, and household ladder specs & load ratings |
Note: ANSI/EN ladder ratings may differ from SABS.
SABS SANS 50131 references EN 131-3 and sets the maximum total load at 150 kg.
Any ladder claiming a rating above this may not conform to local standards.
✅ Certification Checklist for Sales & Use:
- Look for a clear compliance label – should state SABS, EN, or ANSI.
- Check the SL and DL load markings – ensure they’re visible and legible.
- Review the user instruction pictogram – usually found near the base or on the side rail.
- Avoid grey imports – Ladders without certified compliance must not be sold or used on job sites.
- Only fibreglass ladders are safe for use near electricity – check for dielectric test confirmation if applicable.
Are Fibreglass Ladders Safe for Electrical Work?
Yes — fibreglass ladders are the only ladder type considered safe for electrical work. Fibreglass is a non-conductive material, making it suitable for use near live electrical installations, switchboards, or overhead lines. These ladders are often reinforced and tested for dielectric strength to prevent current transfer through the side rails.
Never Use the Following Around Electricity:
- ❌ Aluminium ladders – Highly conductive, even if rubber feet or plastic components are present.
- ❌ Steel ladders or step scaffolds – Pose the same electrical risk.
- ❌ Wooden ladders with metal fittings – Moisture and aging reduce insulation.
Selection and Usage Tips for Electrical Work:
- Confirm the ladder is fibreglass throughout – not aluminium with fibreglass-coated steps.
- Look for “dielectric tested” on the label or test certificate.
- Use Type 1 or 2 SABS/EN131-compliant fibreglass ladders only.
- Inspect regularly – cracks or delamination reduce insulation properties.
Always treat all nearby electrical sources as live. Even a fibreglass ladder must be used with care and correct PPE in electrical environments.
C. Setup, Stability & Safe Use
How Should I Safely Set Up a Ladder?
Checklist for Setup:
- ✅ Set up on a level, stable surface (concrete, compacted soil)
- ✅ Fully open and lock spreaders or hinges (especially on A-frame ladders)
- ✅ Engage all safety locks on 5-in-1 or combination ladders
- ✅ Use the stabiliser bar if provided – never remove it
- ✅ Always face the ladder when climbing up or down
- ❌ Never place ladders on boxes, bricks, or unstable objects
- ❌ Never overreach or lean to one side – always reposition the ladder
Daily Ladder Safety Checks and Inspection Protocol
Employers and users must ensure ladders are suitable and safe before use. The following procedures apply:
Pre-Use Checks (To be done daily by the user):
- Stiles – not bent, cracked, or damaged
- Feet – intact and in contact with the surface, not worn or filled with debris
- Rungs – secure, not loose, bent, or missing
- Locks and Hinges – functioning correctly and engaged fully
- Platform/Treads – no cracks, bending, or slippage hazards
- Contamination – ensure surfaces are clean and non-slippery
Always check when the ladder is moved, dropped, or used on a new surface.
Detailed Visual Inspections (Conducted periodically by a competent person):
- Carried out per the manufacturer’s instructions
- Should include checks for:
- Worn feet, bent stiles, cracked rungs, loose tie rods
- Damaged welds, loose rivets, and compromised stays
- Recorded for compliance and tracking over time
Inspections should be scheduled based on frequency of use and risk. Scaffold ladders must still be inspected every 7 days.
Maintenance & Storage Tips
- Store in dry, shaded areas – avoid UV damage to fibreglass
- Do not lean steeply for extended periods
- Clean with mild soap – avoid grease (dust + grease = grinding paste)
- Lubricate hinges with dry silicone spray only
- Always follow manufacturer maintenance instructions to ensure warranty remains valid.
Why Does the Centre of Gravity Matter in Ladder Use?
The centre of gravity affects balance and stability. It can shift dangerously due to:
- Leaning or overreaching
- Uneven ground or flooring
- Partially opened ladder frames
- Carrying tools unevenly on one side
If the centre of gravity moves outside the ladder’s base footprint, the ladder is at risk of tipping or collapse.
How Do I Position a Straight or Extension Ladder Safely?
- Use the 1:4 ratio: For every 4 m of height, the ladder base should be 1 m from the wall
- Ensure the top of the ladder extends at least 1 m above the landing point (e.g., roof edge)
- Secure the ladder by tying it off at the top when possible
- Place feet on a firm, level surface, not on grass, gravel or loose soil without stabilisation
D. Use Cases and Selection Guidance
| USE CASE | RECOMMENDED LADDER TYPE | SABS TYPE | SL / DL | NOTES |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Home Maintenance | Step ladder (household model) | Type 3 | ±100 kg SL / ±91–113 kg DL | For curtain rails, lightbulbs, indoor painting |
| Contractor Use | Trade step or extension ladder | Type 2 | ±115 kg SL / ±113 kg DL | Designed for daily field use and moderate-duty tasks |
| Warehouse / Long Duration | Platform ladder with guardrail | Type 1 | ±135–150 kg SL / ±136 kg DL | Enhanced stability for extended standing times |
| Electrical Work | Fibreglass only – step or platform ladder | Type 1 or 2 | ±115–135 kg SL / ±113–136 kg DL | Non-conductive; always check EN131 or SABS compliance |
| Stairs / Uneven Terrain | Multi-purpose or 5-in-1 combination ladder | Type 1 | ±115–135 kg SL / ±113–136 kg DL | Must explicitly support stair configuration and be locked securely |
| Roof Access | Extension ladder with stabiliser bar | Type 1 | ±135–150 kg SL / ±136 kg DL | Apply 1:4 angle ratio, extend 1 m beyond contact point, secure if possible |
Always match your ladder choice to the environment, user weight, and task type for safety and compliance.
E. Maintenance & Storage
Ladder Care Tips:
- ✅ Clean with mild soap and water after use
- ❌ Avoid using grease – it attracts dust and becomes a grinding paste
- ✅ Use dry silicone spray on hinges, joints, and locks to maintain smooth function
- ✅ Inspect before every use for signs of cracks, loose feet, bent rungs, or corrosion
Storage Recommendations:
- ✅ Store indoors or under roofed cover when not in use
- ❌ Avoid storing ladders leaning steeply – this can warp the frame
- ✅ Protect fibreglass ladders from prolonged UV exposure to prevent material degradation
- ✅ For long-term storage, store ladders vertically or flat – never twisted or suspended
F. Warranty, Repairs & Accessories
Do Ladders Come with a Warranty?
Yes – ladders sold at Adendorff Machinery Mart come with a 1-year warranty against manufacturing defects.
The warranty excludes:
- Misuse or overloading (beyond the specified SWL)
- Use on uneven terrain or improper angle setup
- Modifications, accidental damage, or corrosion due to poor storage
- Wear and tear or failure to follow setup, cleaning, or maintenance guidelines
⚠ Important: Warranty claims may be rejected if safety pictograms or product usage instructions were not followed.
Can I Get Replacement Parts?
Yes – Adendorff can arrange replacement items such as:
- Stabiliser bars
- Non-slip feet
- Locking pins
- Safety trays (where applicable)
Why Does the Product Photo Differ Slightly from the Unit I Received?
Product images are for reference only. Suppliers may update accessories or fittings, but all changes conform to the certified specification and performance rating.
Always check the ladder label and test report to confirm SL and DL.
G. Static vs Dynamic Load Summary
This table provides a comparative breakdown of load classifications used to assess safe ladder usage under different conditions:
| USE CATEGORY | STATIC LOAD (SL) | DYNAMIC LOAD (DL) | REMARKS |
|---|---|---|---|
| Non-Professional | 150 kg | ±113 kg | Domestic use. Weight applied steadily without movement. |
| Professional | 170 kg (EN/ANSI only) | ±136 kg | Daily work. Not recognised by SABS. Subject to movement/vibration. |
Additional Notes
- Static Load (SL): Refers to the maximum rated load applied in stable, motionless conditions. Often used in lab testing.
- Dynamic Load (DL): Reflects real-world working conditions where the user moves or carries tools, creating force beyond just body weight.
- SABS SANS 50131 Compliance: The maximum recognised static load is 150 kg. Professional/EN170 ratings (170 kg) are not adopted under South African regulation.
Why it Matters: Exceeding DL (not just SL) causes increased stress on joints, hinges, and platform integrity.
Electrical Work: Only fibreglass ladders should be used where live circuits or power lines may be present.
⚠ Selecting a ladder with a higher SL does not guarantee safety unless DL is also respected. Ensure that both load conditions are within safe working thresholds based on the intended application.
H. Ladder Selection Table
Choosing the appropriate ladder is crucial for safety and efficiency. Consider the following factors:
Determine the Required Working Height:
Estimate the platform height you need by subtracting your height from the total reach height required.
Example: If you're 1.7 m tall and need to reach 3.5 m, choose a ladder with a platform height of ±1.8 m.
Understand Static vs Dynamic Load Limits:
Ladders are tested under static conditions, but real use involves motion and additional forces. Always consider both:
| USER TYPE | MAX STATIC LOAD | SAFE DYNAMIC LOAD | SABS MAX RATING |
|---|---|---|---|
| Non-Professional | 150 kg | ±113 kg | Aligned with EN 131-3 |
| Professional | 170 kg (EN/ANSI only) | ±136 kg | ⚠ Not recognised by SABS |
Important: SABS SANS 50131 sets the static load maximum at 150 kg. Ladders claiming higher ratings may not be compliant.
Choose the Right Ladder Type for the Task
- A-Frame Step Ladders – Stable for standalone indoor work.
- Extension Ladders – For reaching height, must lean against a surface.
- Platform Ladders – For extended standing or warehouse use.
- 5-in-1 / Multipurpose – For versatile needs including staircases.
- Fibreglass Ladders – Only safe option for electrical work.
Consider the Work Environment
- Indoor: Choose non-marking feet to protect floors.
- Outdoor: Ensure slip-resistant feet and weather-resistant construction.
- Uneven terrain: Use adjustable or combination ladders designed for stability.
Storage and Transport Requirements
- If space is limited, opt for telescopic or folding ladders.
- Always store ladders vertically or flat, not leaning at an angle.
By evaluating these five key factors, you can select a ladder that maximises safety, efficiency, and compliance.