TS EN 131-1+A1

TS EN 131-1+A1 is the standard that defines the terminology, ladder types and functional size concepts used for portable ladders. It establishes a common technical language for understanding ladder geometry and classification, so the same terms and dimensions are interpreted consistently across design, description and related EN 131 documents. Its focus is the basic identification of ladders and their general design characteristics.

How the terminology is organised

In ladder practice, shared terminology matters because parts such as rungs, stiles, support points and working position need to mean the same thing to manufacturers, specifiers and users. As a vocabulary-oriented standard, this part helps distinguish ladder families in technical terms, supporting the separation of straight ladders, leaning ladders and portable designs with articulated features. That distinction is important when products are described, classified or linked to the other parts of EN 131.

Why functional sizes matter

Functional sizes are the dimensions that influence how a ladder behaves in use, not just its overall physical size. In general technical terms, they help describe access, stability and placement characteristics, which is why they are central to ladder categorisation. The scope is limited to portable ladders intended for general professional and non-professional use, and it excludes ladders designed for specific professional purposes.

• Portable ladders for general professional and non-professional use.
• Common terminology for ladders and their components.
• General design characteristics and functional dimensions.
• Excludes ladders intended for specific professional use.