Design and advantages of aluminium R13 steps
The R13 geometry is created in KRAUSE aluminium steps by deep profiling and defined edge radii. The profile interlocks with the shoe sole and diverts liquids to the sides instead of trapping them between the sole and the tread surface. Compared to steps with rubber inserts, this offers several practical advantages: Grip is less temperature-dependent, remains constant across the entire tread width of the step even under load, and behaves predictably when dirty. In addition, there is no need to retrofit or replace worn treads or inserts on the steps, which translates into a cost advantage over the life cycle – especially for frequently used ladders and steps.
Products and typical areas of application
The single-sided step ladder is the basic system for work at low to medium heights where the user stands facing the work area – for example, when assembling, labelling, cleaning or inspecting. R13 steps stabilise the ladder even when dripping water, cleaning agents or fine dust get onto the steps or platform. Because they are made entirely of aluminium, the surface characteristics remain uniform; there are no transitions between the step and the insert where dirt could accumulate or coverings could come loose. Especially in facility management areas or workshops where various liquids or dust can accumulate on the floor every day, this design significantly reduces the risk of slipping when climbing up and down.
The double-sided step ladder expands the range of applications by allowing access from both sides. The symmetrical design proves its worth in everyday use by service teams, in intralogistics and in production environments where changing the direction of work without moving the ladder saves time.
Compared to classic step ladders, platform ladders offer a clear advantage in terms of comfort and safety. Their large standing platform allows you to work safely for longer periods of time, while wide steps and handrails ensure a stable ascent. Single-sided models are used where tasks are performed continuously in one direction, for example during maintenance work on HVAC systems or in hygienically sensitive areas of food production. Double-sided platform ladders are ideal when workplaces need to be accessed from both sides, for example on production lines or conveyor systems. In all cases, the R13 certification of the platforms and steps ensures maximum slip resistance, even in the presence of moisture, spray mist, cleaning chemicals or lubricants. Both versions are mobile and can be easily moved with integrated spring rollers. These lock automatically when stepped on, ensuring a secure footing. Optionally available storage trays offer additional convenience, as tools and materials remain directly at hand in the workplace.
The working platform with grating steps is ideal for areas with frequent, short-term access, such as switch cabinet work, machine loading or test stations. The grating profile in R13 design combines the following functions: high drainage performance, mechanical self-cleaning by stripping off loose particles and form-fitting interlocking with the shoe sole. In contrast to closed rubber coverings, which quickly become a ‘rolling layer’ when exposed to chips or granulates, the open cross-section allows foreign objects to fall through. There are no clip-on edge profiles that could come loose. The result is a step that provides reliable grip in metalworking areas, maintenance and chemical prefabrication. In addition, the working platform is also available as a mobile version with two integrated castors and a handrail. This facilitates flexible use at changing workplaces.
Window cleaner ladders must meet special requirements, as they are often used between dry and wet surfaces, with varying angles of attack and different sole profiles. R13 steps increase safety when ascending and descending, for example when moisture, cleaning agents or polish residues are transferred from shoes to the ladder steps. At the same time, unlike elastomers, the aluminium surface does not shrink or swell. This provides building cleaners with a consistent level of grip throughout the season, which also improves the predictability of risk assessments.
New to the range is the step ladder with R13 slip resistance. While TRBS 2121-2 requires the use of step ladders with sufficient tread area, the R13 version extends this standard with particularly high slip resistance and thus an additional safety factor. In conjunction with a suitable angle of inclination, secure ladder protection, slip-resistant foot caps and appropriate fall prevention measures, the residual risk can be further reduced. However, it should be noted that permissibility always depends on the specific activity, duration, height and risk assessment. R13 increases safety, but does not replace the need to check whether another access solution is preferable.
Advantages of not using pads and inserts
The reasons why not using clip pads or rubber inserts is more than just a minor detail become clear during operation: elastomers age, harden in cold temperatures, soften in heat and absorb oils. All of this causes the friction coefficients to fluctuate. Mechanical damage, edge delamination or uneven abrasion lead to so-called ‘mixed surfaces’. This has ergonomic and safety disadvantages. All-aluminium steps, on the other hand, can be cleaned with defined pressure, are resistant to most cleaning agents and disinfectants, show no delamination and retain their profile. This is also an argument in hygienically sensitive areas, because hard, open profiles can be kept visibly clean. The slightly ‘harder’ feel compared to rubber-cushioned coverings is more than compensated for by the larger, slip-resistant tread surface and the even load distribution.
Application environments and cost-effectiveness
R13 has proven particularly effective in practice where moisture, operating fluids or fine dust cannot be reliably controlled: during outdoor work in dew and rain, during maintenance of production facilities with lubricant contamination, in workshops with grinding dust and in glass cleaning with spray mist. When considering the total costs, the costs for cleaning and maintenance should also be taken into account. Aluminium R13 surfaces can be quickly restored with water and mild cleaning agents. Coatings or overlays do not need to be reordered, removed or fitted precisely. This reduces downtime, simplifies spare parts management and improves availability.
R13 is not a free pass to ignore physical limitations – icy surfaces, surfaces covered with compacted snow or thick grease must be cleaned or de-iced before use. The best friction coefficients are of little use if the installation angle, standing surface, ladder feet, locks and handrails are not correct. Those who observe these basics and opt for R13 steps and platforms made entirely of aluminium will benefit from durable, low-wear and measurably safe access technology for everyday use – without the weak points of attached rubber or plastic components.