Telescopic ladders are not the first thing in mind when your gutters are blocked or you need to clean the upstairs windows.
However, they are far sturdier than you would imagine. They also take up less space than conventional ladders.
However, since many people in the UK are wondering if telescopic ladders are actually safe, then I have done the leg work for you!
Here is what I have found from both research and first-hand experience:
Telescopic ladders have been around for a while and they have always been popular in construction.
These ladders are so popular because they extend to a great height without taking up as much space.
Telescopic ladders are also easy to transport and lightweight, making them an ideal option for those who need to move on the go.
In some cases, these ladders can be fixed in place for safety measures and used as an elevated platform.
Are Telescopic Ladders safe?
Telescopic ladders are safe if they are used correctly.
The user should always make sure that the ladder is fully extended before climbing up it, and that the ladder is not overloaded with weight. so that it becomes difficult to hold or pull up.
The user should also make sure that there are no obstructions or point of contact below the person climbing the ladder, and ensure that he is standing on solid ground when reaching for a step.
The standard height for a telescopic ladder is between 1.5 metres and 3 metres (5–10 ft).
There are many reasons why people think telescopic ladders are not safe.
However, it is important to understand that a minimum standard has been set for the UK.
The minimum standard that all ladders in the UK must meet is called European EN131.
The EN131 is split into 2 categories which are EN131 Professional and EN131 Non-Professional.
EN131 Professional & EN131 Non-Professional
These categories are pretty much self-explanatory.
But to dive into a little more detail, the non-professional is for domestic use and the professional is for anything from trade use, light industrial to heavy-duty industrial use.
If it is simply domestic work you are carrying out then the non-professional is a perfect choice for you.
However if you plan on using them more often or for heavier use, then it would be wise to invest in a pair of EN131 Professional class ladders.
How Safe Are Telescopic Ladders?
Telescopic Ladders are very safe to use if they are used with the right precaution and with a little knowledge beforehand.
The user should always make sure that the ladder is stable and not leaning against anything, and that it is not being used on an uneven surface or at an obscure angle.
Telescopic ladders provide plenty of length to work on a person but they are easy to carry around.Telescopic ladders provide plenty of length to work on a person but they are easy to carry around.
When using a telescopic ladder, the user should always ensure they have a firm footing before moving up.
Are telescopic ladders strong?
Telescopic ladders which are available these days are without a doubt as strong as conventional ladders. Our research found that they have an average maximum weight limit of up to 170kg (almost 27st or 375lb).
This is equal to the majority of other types of ladders and therefore will be strong enough for any job you will have around the house.
Do you have to fully extend a telescopic ladder?
When using telescopic ladders, they do not need to be fully extended.
You can set them to any height you need and they will lock in place.
Telescopic ladders that meet EN131 European standards have reinforced locking mechanisms at each rung to guarantee they will not fail.
Simply follow the instructions and set your telescopic ladder to any height you need.
A telescopic ladder is versatile and can be used in a variety of ways.
You do not need to fully extend the ladder for every use.
When using a telescopic ladder, check to make sure it is at the proper angle and you are using it correctly before fully extending the ladder.
Since the ladder has a limited amount of support from the ground, avoid any use that would be too heavy for the ladder.
It is recommended to have an assistant steady both feet when ascending or descending a extendable telescopic ladder.
Do telescopic ladders fail?
The biggest cause of telescopic ladders that fail is Human Error! Just like any other type of ladder, they can be used incorrectly and this can result in accidents and injury – or even damage to the ladders.
It is important when using telescopic ladders that you pay a little more attention to ensure that every rung is locked in position. This is a simple check but crucially important.
Also check each locking mechanism to make sure it is in good order. Always follow the manufacturer’s guidance for your specific model of ladder.
The telescopic ladders may collapse if they are not used properly or if they are not maintained properly.
Are Telescopic Ladders dangerous?
As mentioned above, all ladders come with inherent dangers, and telescopic ladders are no different.
Of course, telescopic ladders have more “moving parts” and therefore have to be checked a little more thoroughly than normal static ladders.
However, if you follow the manufacturer’s instructions when setting the ladders up, storing them and maintaining them, they are perfectly safe and are a good alternative to normal static ladders.
So telescopic ladders are no dangerous, however if not setup properly they could fail. The most common cause is human error.
It is not the telescopic ladders that are dangerous, it’s the user!