The revised BS EN 131-6:2019 standard was published on April 31st, 2019.
The new standard supersedes BS EN 131-6:2015 and is effective immediately. Typically there is a transition period of up between 12-24 months.
The revised standard relates to telescopic ladders. It impacts our Xtend+Climb range at TB Davies, including the 3.2m, 3.8m and 4.4m extending ladders.
What has changed in this updated standard? In line with the changes made to EN 131, ladders must now have a wide base in direct proportion to the overall height of the ladder. These can either be fixed-width stabiliser bars or adjustable outriggers. The Xtend+Climb uses an innovative spring-loaded mechanism that automatically extends the stabiliser bar as soon as the ladder is fully extended. The increased width of the ladder ensures the ladder is only used with the stabiliser bars correctly positioned.
The standard improves the internal dampening to allow smoother opening and closing and prevent the ladder from suddenly dropping. The Xtend+Climb telescopic ladders have long had excellent dampeners and are popular because of this feature.
The other significant change is that the top rung should have a standoff design that keeps the top rung clear from the surface the ladder is resting against to allow you to grip the top rung with your hands comfortably. Previously, the top rung would have been inaccessible, resting directly against the wall surface.
Continue reading for more information about Ladder Standards and Classifications at TB Davies.
