A joint investigation by The Ladder Association and T&R Test Research Centre has uncovered alarming safety failings among telescopic ladders sold in the UK -particularly those purchased from online marketplaces supplied by unknown or third-party vendors.
Telescopic ladders have become increasingly popular thanks to their compact, lightweight, and adjustable design. However, of the 18 ladders tested, just 22% passed all required safety tests. Werner telescoping ladders were among the cohort that passed, with every Werner ladder that was tested being recognised as safe for use.
Among the most reported failures included ladders collapsing under load, unstable designs, and faulty locking mechanisms – all posing a serious risk of injury or even fatal falls.
Report findings included:
86% of ladders failed the required safety tests, while 86% also falsely claimed compliance with the current product standard
14 ladders failed on all dimensional, design, and strength requirements, showing manufacturers made little or no effort to conform to EN 131
10 ladders failed the strength test before the test load was even applied
Dave Elson, Werner’s UK Compliance Manager, welcomed the findings, commenting: “Unfortunately, as the report reveals, it’s something of an unregulated ‘untamed frontier’ when it comes to online sales. Too often, people are tempted by cheaper products that seriously compromise their safety – failing to meet the required product standard for telescopic ladders (EN 131-6).
“The scale of the problem should be a real eye-opener for trade professionals who take pot-luck when purchasing ladders. The results clearly demonstrate that buying from trusted brands and reputable platforms can make the difference between safety and danger. Werner is committed to rigorous product testing to ensure all our ladders not only meet but comfortably exceed the strictest safety standards.”
The study warns that many ladders sold online are imported directly from overseas manufacturers, with no UK-based quality checks or importer accountability. In many cases, the first person to inspect the ladder is the buyer, who assumes it is safe. This, the report warns, is a dangerous misconception.
Despite the disappointing overall results, 100% of ladders purchased directly from physical stores passed the required safety tests, proving both compliant and safe to use.
Using an independent market research company, the study found that:
72% of ladders were bought online
Major multi-brand, third party online retailers accounted for almost a quarter (24%) of all online sales
The Ladder Association is now calling on the UK Government to take urgent action through the new Product Regulation and Metrology (PRAM) Act to address this issue once and for all.
The Ladder Association stresses that this is a systemic safety issue, enabled by loopholes in online marketplace regulation. Currently, third-party sellers face no legal duty to ensure their products are safe or compliant. The Association is therefore urging the government to make online marketplaces legally responsible for product safety under the PRAM Act.
Be safety conscious
Dave Elson concluded: “Buying telescopic ladders online can be extremely risky, so users should exercise due diligence and ensure they research the product they’re looking to buy, making sure it’s manufactured by a trusted brand and meets the relevant safety guidelines. This is vital even when purchasing from well-known, trusted websites or recognised retailers. Research shows us that more than three-quarters of these products are unsafe. Always prioritise safety, trusted brand reputation, and verified testing standards over price when choosing a ladder.”
