Introduction
Ladders and stepladders are widely used in everything from daily chores to construction sites, but numerous accidents occur every year, both in Japan and abroad. With an aging population and an increase in DIY demand, the user base is expanding, and the risks of falls and getting pinched are also on the rise. Against this backdrop, safety design and quality assessment are the most crucial points when selecting a product. There is a strong demand for products with highly reliable structures and easily visible safety labels.
Safety Design and Structural Standards
Design Requirements Based on Laws and Standards
The safety design of ladders and stepladders is fundamentally based on compliance with laws and standards. The Industrial Safety and Health Act and its related ordinances in Japan clearly define requirements for strength, stability, and conditions of use. The JIS S1121:2013 standard specifies 13 test criteria and definitions for aluminum alloy ladders and stepladders. While it shares many points with the SG (Safety Goods) Mark standards, there are differences in details such as labeling requirements.
Structural Design for Enhanced Stability and Durability
By using highly durable materials, incorporating non-slip processing on the rungs, and using locking braces to maintain a stable angle, safety is improved. The use of materials resistant to corrosion and damage, along with restrictions on using the top plate or upper rungs (only the third rung from the top or lower is permitted), significantly reduces the risk of falls.
Source: Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare – Preventing Falls from Ladders and Stepladders
The Importance of Quality Assessment and Safety Labels
Methods for Assessing Load Capacity and Durability
Load capacity and durability tests are essential to ensure long-term safety. Static load tests confirm weight resistance, while dynamic load tests verify strength against impacts and shaking. Furthermore, resistance to degradation and deformation from long-term use is also evaluated, demanding products that can maintain their safety even under harsh conditions.
Safety Labels to Enhance Visibility and Understanding
Adopting intuitive warning labels compliant with ISO 7010 allows for effective warnings regardless of country or language. Combining large, easy-to-read text for the elderly, high-contrast color schemes, and illustrations to prevent misuse (e.g., “Do not stand on the top plate,” “Do not straddle”) leads to immediate understanding and accident prevention.
Source: ISO 7010 Safety Signs
Accident Analysis and Risk Reduction Measures
Main Risk Factors
Most accidents stem from predictable factors such as falls, getting pinched, and losing balance. Falls are often caused by overreaching or product failure, while pinching incidents are due to carelessness with fingers when folding the ladder. When using power tools that produce recoil, even a slight loss of posture can lead to a serious accident.
Effective Risk Reduction Measures
Using an assistant, outsourcing tasks or utilizing work volunteers, and using outriggers (leg stability aids) or stabilizers (anti-sway devices) are effective measures. Structural designs that physically prevent standing on the top plate, as seen in some international products, also prevent misuse.
Source: NITE Product Accident Information
Conditions and How to Choose the Right Ladder/Stepladder
Key Product Selection Points
In addition to compliance with standards, it is important to consider practical suitability for the specific site or home use. Check for high-durability materials, a stable frame design, and the presence of safety-assisting parts like non-slip features and stabilizer feet.
Comprehensive Information and Safety Education
Manufacturers that provide easily understandable safety labels, clear instruction manuals, and educational content such as online courses and video tutorials contribute to raising safety awareness.
Source: Hasegawa Kogyo Co., Ltd. – Safe Use of Products
Conclusion
Safety design and quality assessment are the highest priority criteria when choosing a ladder or stepladder. By selecting products that conform to laws and standards and possess durable and stable structures, the risk of accidents can be significantly reduced. Continuous improvement based on accident data is also crucial. When purchasing, confirming the “structure,” “labeling,” and “track record” of the product will lead you to a reliable manufacturer and model, ensuring you choose a product that is safe and can be used for a long time.