What Do Access Certifications Really Mean? 🪜
Posted on June 4th 2026 by Hannah Clark.
What do access certifications really mean? 🪜
When buying your perfect ladder, opting for one that has been certified is always a smart choice. Whilst certifications aren’t a legal requirement in themselves, they can go a long way in helping you meet UK law around providing safe working equipment. This gives you peace of mind that your ladder has been independently tested and proven to perform.
But deciphering what each one stands for can be a long-winded and complicated task. To simplify this process, we have put together our certification guide. Whether you are a DIY enthusiast or a trade professional, here’s everything you need to know.
Access Certifications for standard ladders 🪣🫧
EN 131 certified
EN 131 is one of the most popular certifications across the UK and Europe. It is a baseline certification and can be broken down to cater for a variety of different types of access equipment.
- EN 131 Professional (Class I): If you are looking for a ladder to use during trade and workplace jobs, you will need a Professional-rated ladder. They are made to withstand demanding conditions that come with day-to-day jobs. Their durability makes them truly robust for commercial and professional working environments, including the Climb-It Mobile Warehouse Steps with Gate.
- EN 131 Non-Professional (Class II): These ladders are ideal for light use on an occasional basis. Whilst perfect for completing at-home DIY projects and home maintenance, they are not appropriate for demanding professional use.
- BS EN 131: This is the EN 131 certification that the British have adopted. The BS abbreviation at the beginning simply means it conforms to the ‘British Standards for use.
- EN 131-4: This certification is applicable to combination ladders with one or more hinge joints included. As a result, these ladders undergo testing for use in a range of positions, including A-frame standing and leaning against a wall.
TUV GS Approved / GS Certified
The TÜV GS certification is a trust mark across a variety of safety equipment. The GS stands for ‘Geprüfte Sicherheit’, which is German for ‘Tested safety’. A variety of accredited bodies issue this certification, including TÜV.
Our Premium Steel Kick-Steps are all GS Approved. Because this access certification process goes beyond the legal minimum, you can reach those tall spots with absolute confidence. These steps are perfect for retail and stockroom environments, as they help to improve user access.
EN 2 PfG 120
This is another German testing certification, as the PfG is short for Prüfgrundsatz, meaning ‘test basis’. These certifications are found on ladders designed for electrical safety, and are a great certification to look out for when you need to use access equipment to get near live electricity.
The Climb-It Aluminium Platform is a fantastic option for this, with both EN 2 PfG Certified and TUV GS Approved. With foldable legs, these platforms are convenient for transporting around job sites using the in-built carry holes.
EN 50528
Portable ladders conforming to this European standard are perfect for use in low-voltage electrical environments. They come with adequate levels of insulation, which makes them safe for use near electrical hazards. This includes our Glassfibre Combination ladders, which have been tested up to 100,000 volts, beyond the typical testing of other electrical step ladders.
EN 1004-1 Certification for scaffold towers 🔨
EN 1004-1 is the European standard for mobile access towers. According to PASMA, the EN 1004-1 certification covers standard mobile towers which provide a working platform height between 2.5m – 8m for outdoor use, or up to 12m indoors. Scaffold towers must meet a range of strict criteria. This includes looking into the design, safety regulations and load capacities.
The Platform Scaffold Tower Combo meets this certification and is made from aluminium for a durable finish. The mobile castors on this unit lock in place using the integral brakes, a key requirement for meeting EN 1004-1. Because the maximum working height of this tower is approximately 3.6m, additional extension kits are available to increase this height, all complying with the same EN 1004-1 standard.
Heavy duty certifications for at-home ladders 🏡
Ensuring access equipment meets specific standards does not just apply to that used in professional settings. Buying equipment with the right certifications for around the house can also ensure you stay safe at height, even during speedy home maintenance jobs.
EN 14183 for step stools
This certification applies specifically to foldable step stools. Meeting this standard requires step stools to be strong, stable, and meet the safety requirements needed for both domestic and professional environments.
The Werner Handy Step Stool (3 Steps) is perfect for use around the home, helping to reach the top shelf in your kitchen or pantry. Its compact design means it can be folded to a depth of 4cm, making it easy for storage when not required.
Another EN 14183 certified step stool is the Climb-It Easy Slop Steps. With the choice of 2, 3 or 4 anti-slip steps, it is easier than ever to access your required height. Additionally, wheels sit on the back feet of these steps, allowing for a tilt and pull movement for improved transportation.
EN 14975 compliant loft ladders
This certification is designed to test the strength and durability of a variety of loft ladders. This includes those that fold, concertina, or slide for access into rooftop spaces. Unlike traditional ladders, geometry is a key factor that specialists investigate. This includes the depth and spacing of each tread, as well as the angle of the incline once it is in position.
A wide range of our Loft Ladders here at Workplace Products conforms to this certification. Because we offer a variety of options available to purchase, you can have peace of mind knowing your perfect ladder keeps you safe.
Some of these loft ladders come with a built-in hatch which conforms to EN 12207-Class 4. This means the trapdoor is fully sealed to prevent drafts and heat loss, helping to preserve energy.
Reach new heights with Workplace Products 🪜
Understanding the different access certifications does not have to be complicated. Whether you are hunting for your next everyday ladder, maintenance scaffold tower, or mobile steps, knowing what each certification means can help you to make the right, and safe, choice.
If you are still unsure of which ladder is for you, contact our sales team today! They can help to point you in the right direction and answer any additional queries you may have.
