Greater comfort when standing in places where ladders are actually used as workstations
In many businesses, the ladder is not a rarely used tool, but an integral part of the work process. Whether connecting lights, carrying out maintenance on technical equipment, readjusting installations or cleaning glass and interior surfaces: it is not enough to ‘just reach up briefly’. Rather, what matters is how safely and ergonomically the user stands whilst working. The unrivalled 135 mm deep premium D-steps on the step ladder significantly increase the standing surface area and are around 70 per cent deeper than the standard. This improves standing comfort, particularly during tasks that take longer or are repeated regularly. This is complemented by the sturdy, 300 mm wide aluminium safety platform with slip-resistant profiling. It provides additional safety and a defined standing position in the upper working area.
225 kg load capacity as a practical safety margin
The high load capacity is not merely a technical specification, but a genuine deciding factor in day-to-day operations. Particularly in professional settings, the user’s own weight is often compounded by the weight of tool bags, measuring instruments, cleaning equipment or assembly materials. At the same time, many companies require additional safety margins when equipment is used by different people. The KRAUSE 135 XL step ladder is designed for extreme loads of up to 225 kg. It is therefore ideal for conditions where robustness, durability and stability are required. For purchasers and safety officers, this is a key consideration, as the suitability of a piece of work equipment is defined not only by the entry height but also by the realistic load it will bear during use.
High safety bar for greater control in the upper working area
The ergonomic safety bar deserves special attention. KRAUSE has raised it by 40 per cent in this model compared to the standard version. This improves the grip and support surface in the upper section of the ladder, which is particularly relevant for taller users who often find conventional bar heights offer less guidance and safety. Added to this is the bolted tool tray with integrated bucket hook. This is not only a convenience feature but also has a direct impact on efficiency. Tools and materials can be carried at the top, unnecessary ascents and descents are reduced, and the workflow remains smoother and safer. The link between ergonomics and productivity is particularly noticeable during service calls, in building services or in cleaning operations.
Design features for professional, continuous use
The design demonstrates that the ladder is built to withstand heavy use. KRAUSE employs a sturdy, rail-enclosing, bolted high-tech metal joint, a high-strength flanged step/rail connection, and SafetyCap two-component foot caps, which ensure a secure footing. In the joint area, pinch protection is also integrated via safety step end caps. These features are far more than mere technical footnotes in everyday use. They help ensure that the ladder functions reliably even with frequent folding and unfolding, regular transport and intensive use in trades and industrial settings. For planners and decision-makers, it is precisely this combination of load-bearing capacity, stability and design that is relevant if work equipment is to be used economically and safely in the long term.
Compliance with standards and workplace practice
When selecting and using ladders, the legal and regulatory framework is of crucial importance. In particular, the Workplace Safety Regulation, the company’s risk assessment, EN 131 and TRBS 2121 Part 2 are key. The latter makes it clear that ladders may only be used as a workplace within the appropriate scope of application. This is precisely why features such as deep steps, slip-resistant platforms and a secure upper handrail area are becoming increasingly important in practice. KRAUSE expressly points out with regard to the 135 XL that the enlarged tread area exceeds the requirements cited as examples in TRBS 2121-2. Whilst this does not replace a risk assessment, it does support the selection of appropriate equipment within the intended scope of use.
Also relevant for inspection and training
The responsibilities of safety officers, ‘authorised persons’ and site managers do not end with procurement. Ladders must be inspected and documented on a regular basis, and users must also receive appropriate training. A structured organisation of inspections and training is crucial, particularly for work equipment used daily by different people. In this context, digital traceability in the workplace is becoming increasingly important, alongside the technical suitability of the product.
The KRAUSE STABILO 135 XL 225 kg step ladder is therefore factory-fitted for digital inspection documentation. The wosatec QR code label allows the piece of equipment to be uniquely identified and added to a digital equipment management system. In the wosatec web app, inspections, inspection results and associated documents can be directly assigned to the respective ladder and managed centrally. This significantly reduces the need for paper-based individual records or decentralised filing systems. At the same time, the system supports those responsible by sending automatic reminders of upcoming inspection dates. This makes it easier to monitor inspection intervals and organise inspection processes in day-to-day operations in a traceable, efficient and legally compliant manner. In addition, KRAUSE offers seminars and inspection services to support companies not only in selecting suitable access equipment, but also in ensuring safe and standard-compliant operation.
Safe access equipment for everyday professional use
The KRAUSE 135 XL 225 kg step ladder is not a standard ladder for occasional use, but a single-sided step ladder designed specifically for professional use. Its features – a 225 kg load capacity, 135 mm deep steps, a 300 mm wide safety platform and a safety bar raised by 40 per cent – address precisely the factors that determine comfort, safety and productivity in daily use. Users benefit from improved stability during repetitive tasks, managers from a robust solution that meets modern health and safety requirements, and decision-makers from a piece of equipment designed for durability and practicality.