When selecting a reliable step ladder, one of the key marks of quality and safety is compliance with the EN131 Step Ladders standard. This European standard covers portable step-ladders as well as extension and combination types, and it’s essential if you’re looking to purchase from a specialist supplier such as Aluminium Scaffold Towers in the UK.
What is EN 131?
EN 131 replaced the older British standards (such as BS 2037 and BS 1129) and applies to portable ladders, including stepladders. The key aims of EN 131 are to ensure ladders are wider, stronger and sturdier than older models. Under EN 131:
All ladders must support a minimum static load of 150 kg (including user, tools and materials).
Ladders are classified into Professional (for trade, industrial or work-at-height settings) and Non-Professional (for domestic/DIY use) categories.
In short, when you see a “step ladder EN 131” you’re looking at a product that meets current safety and performance expectations for portable ladders in the UK/Europe.
Why choose an EN 131 step ladder?
There are several good reasons:
Safety assurance: The EN 131 standard requires rigorous testing of ladders — bend tests, torsion tests, lateral deflection, durability tests and more.
Consistency: Whether for home use or professional use, EN 131 gives you a consistent baseline of design and performance.
Future-proofing: Older ladder standards are now withdrawn—if you need to replace a ladder, buying one to the current standard makes sense.
Versatility and reliability: Many modern aluminium stepladders feature lightweight design yet strong load capacity, making them suitable for both trade and serious DIY. For example, one supplier shows aluminium step ladders with EN 131 compliance, non-slip feet and foldable design.
What to look for when buying at Aluminium Scaffold Towers
When browsing the range of step ladders under the product category “Step Ladders / Telescopic Multi-Purpose Ladder” on Aluminium Scaffold Towers, you’ll want to check:
The ladder is explicitly marked EN 131 certified (or EN 131 Professional/Non-Professional as applicable).
The load rating (150 kg or more is the standard minimum under EN 131).
The material: aluminium is common, offering strength with manageable weight (many trade aluminium stepladders meet EN 131).
The platform height, tread design and stabiliser features — especially if you’ll be using the ladder at height or on uneven surfaces.
Whether the ladder is for “domestic/DIY” or “trade/professional” use: If you use it in a work environment you’ll want the Professional category.
Storage and transport: Collapsible, foldable or telescopic ladders offer flexibility especially if your site or home has limited storage. (The product category mentions “Telescopic Multi-Purpose Ladder” which suggests adjustable-length features.)
Final thoughts
Investing in a step ladder that meets EN 131 ensures you’re choosing a product built to modern safety and performance standards. Whether you’re a tradesperson, facility manager or DIY aficionado, an EN 131-compliant ladder from a reputable supplier like Aluminium Scaffold Towers really makes a difference. Before purchase, check the standard label, the use-case (professional vs domestic), and the build quality of the ladder you’re considering.
For more info, visit here:- Telescopic Multi Purpose Ladders