Understanding Ladder Load Ratings
Steel ladder load ratings are specified by the applicable standard and the intended use. This reference explains the standard load categories and when each applies. For project-specific structural calculations, our engineering team provides wind load, rung loading, and bracket spacing analysis with every quotation.
Standard Load Ratings by Application
| Load Rating | Standard | Typical Application | Dengtai Model |
|---|---|---|---|
| 150 kg (330 lbs) | OSHA / EN / AS | General industrial access, roof access | CL-S10, FL-S10 |
| 200 kg (440 lbs) | EN / AS | Heavy maintenance, multi-section tall ladders | CL-M10, FL-H10 |
| 250 kg (550 lbs) | Custom / Project | Heavy industrial, personnel with tools | CL-HDG-HD |
| 300+ kg (660+ lbs) | Offshore Class | Offshore platforms, FPSO, drilling rigs | Custom Engineering |
What the Load Rating Means
The load rating is the concentrated load per rung — the maximum weight applied at the centre of a single rung. It is not the total ladder capacity. The ladder structure as a whole supports significantly more total distributed weight.
Additional Structural Factors
Wind Loading
For exterior ladders, wind load can be the governing design case. A ladder on a 40-storey building experiences 3-5x the wind pressure of a ground-level installation. Dengtai calculates wind loads per ASCE 7 (US) or EN 1991-1-4 (EU) for every exterior project.
Bracket Spacing
Standard bracket spacing is 2.0m maximum. For high-wind locations, heavy-load applications, or structures with unusual vibration, bracket spacing may be reduced to 1.5m or 1.0m.
Wall Substrate
Structural concrete (minimum C20/25) and structural steel provide the highest anchor capacities. Brick and block walls require specific anchor types and may have lower load ratings.