FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions

• Information on the installation and use of ladders can be found in our user information for ladders
• For information on setting up and using scaffolds, refer to the instructions relevant for the specific scaffold or refer to the product page.
  
  
  Before using the ladder
   
• Ensure that you are fit enough to use a ladder. Certain medical conditions or medication, alcohol or drug abuse could make ladder use unsafe.
• When transporting ladders on roof bars or in a truck, ensure they are suitably fastened/attached to prevent damage.
• Inspect the ladder after delivery and before its first use to determine its service condition and operation of all parts.
• Visually check, that the ladder is not damaged and is safe to use at the start of each working day when the ladder is to be used.
• For professional users regular periodic inspection is required.
• Ensure the ladder is suitable for the task.
• Do not use a damaged ladder.
• Remove any contamination from the ladder, such as wet paint, mud, oil or snow.
• For professional use, a risk assessment shall be carried, taking into account the legislation in the country of use.
  
  
  Positioning and erecting the ladder
   
• The ladder shall be erected at the correct position, such as the correct angle for leaning ladders (angle of inclination 65 to 75°); rungs or steps must be level. ladders must be completely opened.
• Locking devices, if fitted, must be fully secured before use.
• The ladder must stand on an even, level and stationary base.
• A leaning ladder should lean against a flat fixed surface and must be secured before use, e.g. by attaching the ladder or using a suitable device to ensure stability. 
• The ladder must never be repositioned from above.
• When positioning the ladder, watch out for the risk of a collision with pedestrians, vehicles or doors, for example. Lock doors (but not fire exits!) and windows in the work area, if possible.
• Identify any electrical risks in the work area, such as overhead lines or other exposed electrical equipment.
• Ladders must be stood on its feet, not the rungs or steps.
• Ladders shall not be positioned on slippery surfaces (such as ice, smooth surfaces or significantly contaminated solid surfaces) unless additional effective measures are taken to prevent the ladder slipping or ensuring contaminated surfaces are sufficiently clean.
  
  
  Using the ladder
   
• Do not exceed the maximum total load for the type of ladder.
• Do not overreach; users should keep their belt buckle (navel) inside the stiles and keep both feet on the same step/rung throughout the task.
• Do not step off a leaning ladder at a higher level without additional security, such as tying off or use of a suitable stability device.
• Do not use standing ladders for access to another level.
• Do not stand on the top three steps/rungs of a leaning ladder.
• Do not stand on the top two steps/rungs of a standing ladder without a platform and hand/knee rail.
• Do not stand on the top four steps/rungs of a standing ladder with an extending ladder at the top.
• Ladders should only be used for light work of short duration.
• Use non-conductive ladders when working with electrical equipment under voltage.
• Do not use the ladder outside in adverse weather conditions, such as strong winds, risk of ice ….
• Take precautions to prevent children from playing on the ladder.
• Lock doors (but not fire exits!) and windows in the work area, if possible.
• Do not ascend or descend unless you are facing the ladder.
• Keep a secure grip on the ladder when ascending and descending.
• Do not use the ladder as a bridge.
• Wear suitable footwear when ascending a ladder.
• Avoid work that imposes a sideways load, such as drilling through masonry and concrete.
• Do not spend long periods on a ladder without regular breaks (fatigue can create hazardous situations).
• Leaning ladders used for access to a higher level should be extended at least 1 m beyond the landing point.
• Equipment carried while using a ladder should be lightweight and easy to handle.
• Avoid work that imposes a sideways load on standing ladders, such as side-on drilling through solid materials (e.g. Masonry or concrete).
• Maintain a handhold whilst working from a ladder or, if impossible, take additional safety precautions.

Basically, all ladders made by KRAUSE can be used indoors and outdoors. However, ALWAYS make sure that the ladders are placed on a stable and non-slippery surface. It is especially important that the ladder is level, so that a uniform pressure is distributed over all the stiles. Special care should be taken with ladders with smaller sized stiles, as the stile may sink into soft ground (e.g. lawn, meadow, etc.) without a strong support and the ladder may tilt. For a safe stand on these surfaces, it is therefore recommended to use the appropriate optional safety accessories, such as a cross rail for more contact surface or to use a ladder foothold on soft surfaces.

The maximum standing height on a ladder is approx. 11 m (cable ladder 2x24 rungs). Working at these heights always requires a risk assessment regarding the planned tasks on the ladder.

For commercial use, according to the German regulation § 7 DGUV 38 - construction works (§ 7), the standing height on a ladder may not be higher than 7 m above the supporting surface.

The maximum standing height on mobile scaffolds is 12 m when used within a building and 8 m outside of buildings.

In the case of ladders, it is not allowed to step on the top rungs/steps, unless they are designed in such a way that a safe standing is ensured (e.g. safety bridge with holding device).

The maximum access height for ladders without holding device is the third step/rung from the top!

The maximum payload of the respective ladder type must not be exceeded. According to the German regulations BG Bau and DIN EN 131, ladders may be loaded with a maximum of 150 kg. All KRAUSE ladders have been tested according to the German standard DIN EN 131 and may therefore be loaded with a maximum of 150 kg.

For commercial use, according to the German regulation § 7 DGUV 38 - construction works (§ 7) of BG Bau, the stand on a ladder may not be higher than 7 m above the supporting surface.

For smaller platforms, the maximum load capacity is also 150 kg. Our scaffolding systems ClimTec, ProTec and STABILO comply with the requirements of scaffolding group 3, which means a maximum load capacity of 200 kg/m². The specification per sqm is obtained from the size of the platform and must be multiplied by 200. The result corresponds to the total maximum load capacity of a scaffold. Example: STABILO100 Series - platform size: 0.63 m x 2.50 m = 1,575 m² x 200 kg = 315 kg

Depending on the type of ladder, the top level (platform) is also counted. For example, a standing step ladder with four steps, has three steps, plus the platform. The platform may also be used unrestricted. Caution should be exercised when using a ladder without a holding device. The last three steps/rungs may not be used in this case.

In order to compensate for level differences between steps and landings, it is recommended to use a hinged telescopic ladder, a multi-purpose hinged ladder or a multi-purpose ladder suitable for use on stairs. Alternatively, you can also get accessories for our other ladders from our “CombiSystem” range to achieve the desired level control. For this purpose, you may want to get the KRAUSE side rail extensions, art. 122292 or KRAUSE cross rail leveller Art. 122285.

The number of ballast weights depends on the height of the scaffold, its length and where you intend to use it (indoors or outdoors). Outdoors, additional ballast weights are required due to wind loads. For the number of ballast weights required, refer to the ballast tables in the respective instructions of use (installation and use instructions). Download the instruction manual for the respective scaffold here: Product page for mobile scaffolds.

No. We do not offer our products through a factory sale. All KRAUSE products are available from qualified

• construction and specialist retailers
• online shops
• mail order shops and wholesale retailers
   

If you have any questions, please contact us via this contact form.

You can obtain spare parts and accessories by quoting the respective article number from

• construction and specialist retailers
• online shops
• mail order shops and wholesale retailers

If you have any questions, please contact us via this contact form.

CombiSystem accessories fit all product series: STABILO, MONTO and CORDA.

Please contact the respective dealership where you purchased the KRAUSE product (you need proof of purchase).

Please contact the respective dealership where you purchased the KRAUSE product (you need proof of purchase).

Each KRAUSE product is supplied with instructions for assembly and use or a user manual. If this goes missing, you will find the appropriate scaffold assembly and use instructions on the respective product page for scaffolds or the ladder usage and operating instructions on the respective product page for ladders.

All KRAUSE products are available from qualified

• construction and specialist retailers
• online shops
• mail order shops and wholesale retailers.

If you have any questions, please contact us via this contact form.

The following KRAUSE scaffolds cannot be extended:

• Scaffold ladder
• Small scaffold
• Foldable scaffold
• Assembly scaffold
• Hinged scaffold
• Platform scaffold

The scaffolds of the ClimTec series can be extended up to a maximum of 7 m. The scaffolds of the ProTec series can be extended up to 12.30 m. If you require a higher working height “right out of the box”, refer to our STABILO mobile scaffolds with a working height of up to 14.40 m.

More information about the different design variants and additional parts are available here: www.krause-systems.co.uk/products/product-categories/mobile-scaffolds.html

You have the option of purchasing our mobile scaffolds in well-sorted specialised stores and DIY stores. The advantage of these purchasing options is that you can inspect the scaffolds on site and convince yourself of their quality. Trained staff are often available in the specialised stores to answer your questions.

It is important to us that you can conveniently purchase your desired KRAUSE mobile scaffold in your preferred way - be it by visiting a specialist or DIY store in person or simply ordering online from one of our dealers. 

In principle, all KRAUSE ladders comply with the standard EN 131 and are therefore approved for private and commercial use. For commercial use we recommend our STABILO series. This series meets the highest demands of commercial and industrial users (intensive use).

For commercial use, according to the German regulation § 7 DGUV 38 - construction works (§ 7) of BG Bau, the standing height on a ladder may not be higher than 7 m above the supporting surface.

Use our contact form and quote the product Art.-No.

Depending on our different product series, we give the following warranties:
STABILO 10 years warranty
MONTO 5 years warranty
CORDA 2 years warranty

The current warranty terms and conditions can be found here...

EN 131 is the European standard for mobile ladders and addresses (in several parts) the following subcategories:

• EN 131‐1 ‐ this part addresses terms, types, and functional sizes of certain ladders.
• EN 131-2 - this part addresses testing, marking, and requirements of all ladders.
• EN 131‐3 ‐ this part addresses the requirements for user instructions of ladders.
• EN 131‐4 ‐ part 4 addresses single or multiple hinged ladders
• EN 131‐6 ‐ part 6 addresses telescopic ladders
• EN 131‐7 ‐ part 7 addresses mobile platform ladders

The aim of the standard is to guarantee uniform quality and safety standards throughout Europe.

The changes to the standard in section DIN EN 131‐1affects leaning ladders with a length of 3 m or longer. The changes also affect multi-part ladders, which can be used as leaning ladders or feature a removable ladder section with a length of 3 m or longer. According to the new standard, these ladders must be equipped with a stabiliser of a certain length.

The standard section DIN EN 131‐2 lists test requirements for all ladders. Some tests have been modified or added here. In future testing, ladders will be divided into two classes ‐ “professional use” and “domestic use”. Further information on tests can be found in Question “DIN EN 131-2 - the new tests. How are tests conducted?” of the general KRAUSE FAQ.

The third section of the standard stipulates the regulation governing the requirements for user information as well as the instructions for use and operation. In conjunction with the entry into force of the standard, additional safety pictograms will be added to the labelling of the ladders. The pictograms attached are also dependent on the type of ladders (e.g. extending ladders, multi-purpose ladders, leaning ladders, etc.).

Part four addresses the requirements for single- or multi-joint ladders. Again, the classification “Professional use” and “domestic use” has been included here. Additionally, some tests have been altered or supplemented.

The increase in the stand width is intended to increase occupational safety when working on these types of ladders and shall help to reduce accidents. The amendments were revised by the European Committee for Standardization (CEN) at the initiative of consumer protection organizations. Other contributors were test institutes, professional associations and manufacturers.

Existing standards are reviewed every 5 years by the standards bodies on the basis of the current state of the art. If there are any changes, the standard will be adapted and revised accordingly.

The standardization bodies consist of secondments from the various member countries of the CEN (“Comité Européen de Normalization”, that is the European Committee for Standardization. Their role is to advise and decide on the changes in the individual standards. Those secondments include members of government bodies, professional associations, manufacturers and other interested parties. CEN‐members are the national standardization institutes of the following countries: Belgium, Bulgaria, Denmark, Germany, the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, Estonia, Finland, France, Greece, Ireland, Iceland, Italy, Croatia, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, the Netherlands, Norway, Austria, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Sweden, Switzerland, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, The Czech Republic, Turkey, Hungary, the United Kingdom and Cyprus.

EN 131 defines at the European level any technical and application specifications for mobile ladders. Ladders for professional use, such as roof ladders, glass cleaner ladders, etc., are regulated in separate standards. Standard EN 131‐4 applies to one‐ or multi-joint ladders, and standard EN131‐6 applies to telescopic ladders, and standard EN 131‐7 applies to platform ladders. The standards EN 131‐1 and EN 131‐2 are not applicable for steps, too. Step are regulated in the standard EN 14183.

The standards must be complied with by all manufacturers who place access systems on the European market. Standards reflect the state of the art ‐ the legislation of the individual countries of the European economic area requires that only safe products can be placed on the market. Therefore, standards form the basis for these requirements. Manufacturers should adhere to these standards in order to meet the requirements for safe products.

Commercial users must carry out a risk assessment for their ladders. If there is no stabiliser or if the existing stabiliser does not meet the requirements, the ladder must be retrofitted accordingly.

KRAUSE delivered standard-compliant STABILO profile ladders as early as 1 March 2017. As of 1 December 2017, we supply all ladders according to the new standard. Since then, we offer comprehensive support services for your risk assessment of your inventory ladders. When buying new ladders, look for this sign:

You will find this label directly on the product.

The standards do not address the handling of products according to old standard versions. However, for commercial users in Europe, the respective operating regulations apply. These regulations regulate the “minimum requirements for safety and health in the workplace when provided by the employer and use of work equipment by workers at their place of work", which is recorded in the German Industrial Safety Regulations (BetrSichV). An important component of these regulations is the obligation that work equipment must be kept up to date with the state of the art and a risk assessment must be conducted and regular inspections of the work equipment must be carried out.

Regardless of the regular ladder tests, we advise companies to carry out safety tests and risk assessments for their access systems in their inventory.

A good guide for a risk assessment is described in “Technical Rule for Industrial Safety (TRBS) 2121, part 2”. Only the operator can assess and decide whether a ladder can be used and this assessment must be documented.

According to section 4 of the German Occupational Safety and Health Act, hazards must be eliminated or mitigated directly at the source and primarily by means of technical protective measures. Is this not sufficient, you must take additional organizational and personal measures in the following order (also referred to as “T‐O‐P principle”.

T = Technical solution, e.g. mounting of a cross rail.
O = Organisational solution, e.g. instructions to employees regarding increased hazards.
P = Personal solution, e.g. use of personal protective equipment.

First and foremost, the technical solution is preferred. Only if the technical solution is not feasible, the organisational or personal solution will be implemented.

These specifications do not change. Companies still have to conduct and document a ladder test according to the current schedule. As a rule, this test should be carried out at least once a year. In case of higher loads or frequent use, the intervals should be shorter. The ladders used shall comply with the latest state of the art access technology and therefore with the legal requirements. In addition, the ladders should not be in a damaged state.

Most of the affected KRAUSE ladders can be updated to the latest standard using appropriate retrofit kits. KRAUSE Werk GmbH & Co. KG offers a comprehensive portfolio for this purpose. A classification of the ladders into either “Domestic use” or “Professional use” can also be carried out retrospectively, as the entire KRAUSE program has been checked and certified on the basis of the new specifications. For more information, please visit our website which is dedicated to the change of the standard at https://www.krause‐systems.co.uk/standard-en-131.

Retailers are allowed to sell hinged multi-purpose ladders, which were produced according to the old standard and are now in stock, even after the revised standard DIN EN 131-4 comes into force. Since the change of the standard is due to a regular revision and not due to an increased danger for users, the legislator assumes that a product complying to the old standard is not automatically unsafe and may therefore be resold. From 1 January 2018, manufacturers will have to comply with the requirements of the new standard and from that date may only produce or supply multi-purpose hinged ladders which comply with the new standard.

KRAUSE ladders meet the requirements of the legislation and all ladders comply with the class “Professional use”. Access technology from KRAUSE will be even more robust and long-lasting than ever before due to the new standard and the associated testing regime. In this way, accidents can be avoided and lost work can be reduced.

Due to the KRAUSE development of the Trigon Stabiliser, all STABILO and MONTO ladders continue to be used in full functionality. There is no requirement to remove separately usable ladder parts. The ergonomic aspect is a major factor, in particular with 3‐part-ladders, as the inner ladder can be removed and the transported weight can be reduced massively.

The changes to part 2 of standard EN 131 came into force on 1 January 2018 as well. The changes address mainly issues such as the durability tests and a new strength test. These tests classify both rung ladders and step ladders in two ladder classes ‐ ladders for “Professional use” and for “Domestic use”

• Professional Use: The “Professional use” category is for ladders that are designated for commercial and private use.
• Domestic use: The “Domestic use” category is for ladders that are designated for private use only.

Strength Test:

The step/rung closest to the centre is loaded with a test load of F = 2,700 N (approx. 275 kg) for the class “Professional use”. The load is F = 2,250 N (approx. 229 kg) for the class “Domestic use”.

The test load is concentrated at a distance of 50 mm from the inside of the stile. The angle of inclination is 65° and thus very flat, so that the test load has its maximum effect.

When is the test passed?

The test is passed, if the ladder is undamaged and its function is maintained.

Torsion test of step ladders:

A ladder foot is fixed with a clamp. The platform or the upper step/rung of the ladder is loaded with F1 = 736 N (approx. 75 kg). Then, at a distance of 0.5 m from the centre axis, the ladder is pulled laterally with a load of F2 = 137 N (approx. 14 kg).

When is the test passed?

The test is passed, if the ladder foot has moved under load no more than 25 mm from its previous position.

Torsion test of leaning ladders

In the first step, the ladders are preloaded with F1 = 491 N (approx. 50 kg) in the centre and the load is taken away after 30 seconds. This is the starting value.

A stile at its centre is loaded with F2 = 638 N (approx. 65 kg) and the deformation of both stiles is measured as compared to the starting value.

When is the test passed?

The test is passed, if the difference between the deformation of the two stiles is less than ≤ 0.07 (a) of the width of the ladders.

Durability test of standing ladders:

Under the right rear stile, a support of 20 mm height is positioned to simulate an uneven surface. This is followed by an alternating load at the top stand/top step (F1) and the step/rung in the centre of the ladder (F2) with 1,500 N (approx. 153 kg).

• For ladders of the class “Domestic use”, this is repeated for 10,000 cycles.
• For ladders of the class “Professional use”, this is repeated for 50,000 cycles.

When is the test passed?

The test is passed, if there is no damage to the supporting parts. This test serves as a preliminary test for the following test of the opening restraint device (not listed here as it is an unchanged test).

The third section of the standard DIN 131-3 stipulates the regulation governing the requirements for user information as well as the instructions for use and operation.

In conjunction with the entry into force of the standard, additional safety pictograms will be added to the labelling of the ladders. The pictograms attached are also dependent on the type of ladders (e.g. extending ladders, multi-purpose ladders, leaning ladders, etc.).

In addition to the new pictograms, user and operating instructions corresponding to the ladder type must also be supplied with the ladder. The user instructions shall be written in the official languages of the country where the ladder is placed on the market.