BS EN 131-4:2020 pdf free download – Ladders Part 4: Single or multiple hinge-joint ladders.
6 Test methods
6.1 General
General provisions, see EN 13 1-2.
After each of the tests specified in Annex A, the ladder shall remain functional with no fracture or visible cracks. The ladders shall sustain the load without ultimate failure. Permanent deformation is permitted.
After the test, fold the ladder completely to its storage/transportation position and open it again completely. During this movement the locking system shall function without any interference. After the test, the hinges/locking systems shall remain functional in all positions.
6.2 Tests method for hinge ladders
6.2.1 Principle
All the ladders conforming to Clause 3 shall comply with all tests and the requirements specified in Annex A.
6.2.2 Strength test for ladders with hinges in longitudinal direction
The test shall be carried out on the complete ladder. The test shall be carried out on the maximum extended ladder according to the manufacturers’ instruction. Lateral or pole type stabilizers shall not be deployed in this test if the design permits the ladder to be used with the lateral or pole type stabilizers removed or temporarily adjusted as permitted by EN 131-1:2015+A1:2019, 4.2.1, General.
Where the ascendable side cannot be determined by the construction of the product the ladder shall be tested twice. For the second test the ladder shall be rotated 1800 about the longitudinal axis..For the test of the second side a new ladder shall be used.
Erect the ladder in its position of use at the maximum extension. Leaning ladders shall be erected at (65 ± 0,5)° (measured at vertical height of 1 m) with the top resting against a smooth vertical surface and with the base of the ladder restrained where it makes contact with the ground to prevent it slipping. The test load F in Figure 13 from Table 3 shall be applied to the rung or tread nearest the centre of the ladder and at a point 50 mm from the inside of one stile and distributed over a 100 mm of the length of the rung or tread for a period of 1 mm. Care should be taken to apply the load smoothly.
Where the test ladder includes a base stabilizer bar then clearance under both stiles of the ladder of a minimum 10 mm shall exist throughout the test, e.g. by putting distance pads under the feet. On completion of the test remove the load and inspect the ladder.
6.2.3 Additional strength test for ladders with more than one pair of hinges in longitudinal direction
For all ladders with more than one pair of hinges the following will also apply:
Lateral or pole type stabilizers shall not be deployed in this test if the design permits the ladder to be used with the lateral or pole type stabilizers removed or temporarily adjusted as permitted by EN 131-1:2015+A1:2019, 4.2.1, General.
Where the ascendable side cannot be determined by the construction of the product the ladder shall be tested twice. For the second test, the ladder shall be rotated 1800 about the longitudinal axis. For the test of the second side, a new ladder shall be used.