A standard is an agreed way of making a product, managing a process, delivering a service or supplying materials. 

Standards are developed by subject matter experts who know the needs of the organizations they represent – people such as manufacturers, sellers, buyers, customers, trade associations, users or regulators.

Standards are powerful tools that can help drive innovation and increase productivity. Standards help to make products safer, easier to use, sustainable and of better quality – benefits for the consumer

Although there isn’t a legal obligation to adhere to standards, the Ladder Association requires that its members supply products that meet relevant current standards.

EN131 Part 1 Revised scope applies to portable ladders designed for general professional and non-professional use.

This standard does not apply to portable ladders which by their design and instruction are intended and limited only for a specific professional use and as a result are not for general professional or non-professional use.

Product standards are not retrospective and so ladders to the correct classification that are in good condition, inspected regularly (and the inspection recorded) can continue to be used. If you continue to use ladders to withdrawn standards, you should update your purchasing policy so when the ladders need replacing, you only buy ladders to the current standard.

If you want a ladder to the current standard, you may need to specify this. The hire company should supply you with a ‘fit for purpose’ ladder, but as product standards are not retrospective, the ladder may be to a previous version of the standard.

The Ladder Association requires that its members supply products that meet relevant current standards. Product standards are subject to change and you can find more information on product standards, and confirm current validity at the BSI shop.