Double-sided rung ladder GFRP

Whether you're using a step stool, platform, ladder or mobile scaffold tower – every piece of access equipment has a working height. Understand this metric and you'll choose the right product. Ignore it and you'll work too low, unsafely, or with unnecessary strain.

Standing height (S) is the distance from the ground to your standing surface – the rung, platform or podest you stand on.

Working height (A) describes how high you can work comfortably and sustainably with your arm slightly raised. Not your maximum reach – the height at which you work without fatigue.

Rule of thumb: Standing height (S) + 2 m ≈ working height (A)

Some manufacturers use the term "reach height" instead of "working height". Both mean the same thing – arm slightly raised, relaxed posture.

Measure the height you need to reach first. Then choose your equipment. Our product filter helps you do exactly that – filter directly by working height, compare, decide.

The right element for you depends entirely on how you intend to use your ladder.

• Rung (approx. 30 mm deep): The foot grips the rung rather than resting flat on it. Ideal for pure ascent and descent. Important for professional use: Under European occupational health and safety law, rung ladders may generally only be used as a means of access – not as a permanent workplace.
• Ladder step (at least 80 mm deep): The foot rests wide and securely on the non-slip step. Perfect for trade work requiring flexibility of movement. In commercial use, step ladders are the standard for safe working. Optional tread covers (e.g. clip-step, clip-step R13, clip-step relax) can increase standing comfort and safety.
• Stair tread (200–220 mm deep): Almost the entire foot surface makes contact – just like on a domestic staircase. This provides maximum standing comfort and fatigue-free working. Typical for folding steps or mobile work platforms.

Rule of thumb when buying: The longer you work on the ladder, the wider the tread surface should be.

💡 Health & safety tip for professionals (time and height rules):

When planning your work, pay attention to the standing height (the height at which your feet are positioned):

• Up to 2 metres standing height: No time limit in Germany, Austria or Switzerland.
• Between 2 and 5 metres: In Germany, max. 2 hours per shift. In Denmark, max. 30 minutes at a stretch. In the Netherlands, a daily limit of 1 hour applies regardless of height.
• From 5 metres: Mobile scaffolding and mobile elevated work platforms offer more standing area and freedom of movement – and are the better choice.
• Italy, France, Belgium, Luxembourg: The ladder is classified as a means of access. For work at height, a platform solution is recommended.