Understanding ladder classifications
20/02/2026
Understanding ladder classifications is more important than many people realise. Whether you’re a tradesperson working on-site or a homeowner tackling DIY, choosing the wrong ladder can lead to safety risks, damaged equipment, or even legal issues in the workplace.
Since 2018, UK ladder safety has been governed by a clear, up-to-date system. Modern ladder classifications are now defined by EN131, which specifies which ladders are suitable for professional use and which are intended for domestic use only.
This article explains current UK ladder classifications, how they work under today’s rules, and why older ladder classes are still referenced.
Table of contents
- What are ladder classifications?
- Why ladder classifications matter
- How ladder classifications work
- Old vs new ladder classifications explained
- Why ladder classification changed
- Why older ladder classifications still exist
- EN131 Professional ladders
- EN131 Non-Professional ladders
- FAQs
What are ladder classifications?
Ladder classifications are safety ratings that indicate a ladder’s strength and the maximum weight it can safely support. These ratings help you pick the right ladder based on weight limits, where you’ll use it, and how often.
Each ladder class is made for a specific job; from domestic use to trade work or industrial environments and is tested against specific standards to ensure it performs safely under load.
Why ladder classifications matter
Picking the right ladder class is important for safety and following the rules. Using the wrong type can:
- Increase the risk of falls and injuries
- Cause ladder failure due to overloading
- Breach workplace health and safety regulations
- Invalidate insurance or site safety policies
That’s why ladder classifications matter so much at work.
How ladder classifications work
Due to updated regulations, ladder classifications are defined by EN131, not by the old Class 1, Class 2, or Class 3 system.
All new ladders sold for use in the UK must be classified as either:
- EN131 Professional, or
- EN131 Non-Professional
These classifications determine where a ladder can be used and how much weight it can safely support.
Old vs new ladder classifications explained
The information below shows how legacy ladder classes relate to modern ladder classifications:
- Class 1 – Industrial (used for heavy-duty workplace use) → EN131 Professional
- Class 2 – Trade (light-trade use) → EN131 Professional
- Class 3 – Domestic (home use only) → EN131 Non-Professional
Why ladder classification changed
The ladder classification system was updated in 2018 to:
- Improve safety standards
- Remove ambiguity around ladder suitability
- Clearly separate domestic and workplace ladders
- Align UK regulations with European safety testing
Why older ladder classifications still exist
Although EN131 now defines ladder classifications, older ladders are still in circulation.
Many that were manufactured before 2018 were tested under the previous British Standards and remain:
- Legal to use
- Safe when properly maintained
- Clearly marked with their original classification
This is why older ladder classes are still referenced in training materials, risk assessments and everyday language.
EN131 Professional ladders
EN131 Professional is the current ladder classification required for workplace use in the UK.
Key characteristics:
- Designed for trade, commercial and industrial environments
- Tested for frequent and demanding use
- Maximum load capacity of 150kg – tested by 50,000 cycles
- Required on construction sites and in professional settings
EN131 Non-Professional ladders
EN131 Non-Professional ladders are designed for domestic use only.
Key characteristics:
- Suitable for light household tasks
- Lower strength testing than professional ladders
- Maximum load capacity of 150kg – tested by 10,000 cycles
- Must not be used in commercial or workplace environments
Although they have the same weight limit as EN131 Professional, they aren’t designed to tolerate daily, heavy-duty conditions.
Knowing about ladder classes helps you stay safe, follow the rules, and feel confident when working at height. Whether you need a ladder for home or work, always check its classification before you buy.
FAQs
What are ladder classifications under current UK rules?
Ladder classifications are defined by EN131 and split into Professional and Non-Professional categories.
Can pre-2018 ladders still be used?
Yes, provided they are in good condition and suitable for the task, but new ladders must meet EN131 standards.
What ladder should be used at work?
EN131 Professional (previously Class 1).
What does EN131 certified mean?
EN131 certified means the ladder meets European safety standards for strength, durability and stability.
Are domestic ladder classifications allowed on work sites?
No. EN131 Non-Professional (previously Class 3) ladders are for domestic use only.
Why are ladder classes still mentioned?
Because older ladders, documentation and industry language still reference them, even though EN131 now governs ladder safety.