Buyer beware: Werner urges professionals to consider the source and quality of the ladders they buy
Feb 3, 2026
What is the true cost of your life? It’s a question few trade professionals ever stop to consider – until a fall from height results in a life-changing injury. Dave Elson, Compliance Manager at leading ladders and access solutions specialist Werner, is a strong advocate of a safety-first mindset. In this article, he explains why taking shortcuts to save time or money can ultimately become the most expensive mistake of all.
Some jobs clearly carry greater risks than others. A construction site is among the most hazardous environments – even when all sensible safety measures are in place. Numerous dangers may be present, including demolition activity, heavy plant and machinery, moving vehicles, falling objects, asbestos, and electrical cables.
However, the deadliest risk remains for those working at height. Figures released by the Health and Safety Executive in July 202 revealed that 35 deaths occurred during 2024/25 directly as a result of this.
As a responsible manufacturer, Werner provides safety awareness courses as part of its ongoing commitment to saving lives and helping prevent avoidable accidents – from minor sprains through to severe injuries such as head trauma.
Buying cheap can put your life at risk
Even with every precaution taken, if a trade professional fails to use the correct equipment for the job, the likelihood of an accident increases. That risk is heightened further if the chosen ladder is poorly made or relies on low-quality materials. This may be the case when unknown UK brands - or cheap imported ones - are purchased and could lack structural integrity, weight bearing strength, or long-term durability.
Structural ladder failure can stem from several defects, including bent or twisted stiles, cracked or loose rungs, missing rivets, or damaged joints. Any of these faults can cause a ladder to break or collapse without warning, leading to sudden falls and potentially serious injuries.
Despite strict workplace safety regulations, there is no legal requirement to use certified ladders. As a result, countless low-cost, non-compliant options are widely available online, and some would fail to meet European safety benchmarks.
Imported items may seem good value, but the materials used can vary dramatically and may be unsafe from the outset or degrade within months of use. Some will lack structural integrity, weight-bearing strength, or long-term durability, putting workers at significant risk.
Buying cut-price products from unrecognised sellers is effectively playing Russian roulette with your life, and the products can fall well short of the stringent safety standards that Werner products consistently meet.
It is therefore essential for trade professionals and businesses to source access equipment from reputable manufacturers who adhere to recognised standards such as EN131 (for ladders) and BS EN 1004 (for mobile access towers).
Choosing cheap products can cost far more over time – not only through the risk of injury or death, but also through the need to repeatedly replace ladders or access equipment. Investing in long-life, repairable ladders reduces waste and minimises environmental impact.
Werner’s quest for safety
Research and development sit at the core of the Werner ethos, with significant, ongoing investment in new product design that enhances safety while supporting more efficient working.
Consider the AdjustaStepPRO® step ladder, launched in February 2025. Developed in collaboration with trade professionals, it delivers maximum versatility, adapting to uneven surfaces and demanding site conditions while prioritising user safety.
Effective equipment design must consider more than basic functionality; it must ensure ease of adjustment, stability, and comfort – all of which contribute to safer working environments. Werner’s approach ensures the company remains a market leader in access solutions, with products rigorously tested to meet the most demanding standards.
This commitment to safety by Werner is further underlined by the findings of a joint investigation by a newly published report by The Ladder Association and the Test & Research Centre. The report uncovered alarming safety failures among telescopic ladders sold in the UK, particularly those purchased online from unknown or third-party sellers.
Sales of telescopic ladders have risen thanks to their compact, lightweight and adjustable design. However, of the 18 ladders tested, only 22% passed all required safety checks. Every Werner telescopic ladder that underwent the same rigorous testing, however, was confirmed safe for use.
Training
Training should always include fall prevention, covering hazard identification, emergency response, and legal responsibilities for both workers and employers.
Werner offers a range of training options, including the Ladder Association’s Ladders & Stepladders Users Course and PASMA programs. Through Werner’s Stepping Up to Ladder Safety campaign, professionals can also access downloadable guides on ladder selection, inspection, and safe use.
By prioritising safety at every stage, design, procurement, training, and enforcement – the number of workplace accidents taking place can be significantly reduced and ensure safer conditions for all professionals working at height. To view Werner’s Ladder Safety Guides, please visit: https://www.wernerco.com/uk/ladder-safety
Media contact:
HROC PR Ltd.
T: 0121 454 9707