Health & Safety Hub

Handy guide for the best ladders for electricians to use. Compare fibreglass steps, combination & extension ladders — safe, EN131 certified & UK made.

Many users are unaware of one crucial detail that could compromise their safety on a step ladder: which tread you're allowed to stand on. Read Lyte's safety tips!

When it comes to working at height in electrical environments, safety is absolutely critical. That’s where glassfibre ladders – often referred to as fibre glass ladders – come into their own. Known for their non-conductive properties, glassfibre ladders have become the trusted choice for electricians, utilities, and facilities maintenance teams across the UK. However, it's important to recognise that not all glassfibre ladders offer the same level of electrical protection .

Working at height is a daily reality for trade professionals, from scaffolders and roofers to facilities managers and contractors. While these tasks are essential, they come with significant risks! Falls from height remain one of the leading causes of work-related injuries in the UK. So, how can you ensure safety, compliance, and efficiency on the job? It starts with using the right access equipment, understanding safety standards, and following best practices to protect yourself and your team. In this guide, we’ll share actionable safety tips, explore industry standards, and explain why choosing high-quality access solutions, like those manufactured by Lyte Ladders, is key to working safely at height. Understanding UK Ladder Safety Standards When working at height, using equipment that meets industry standards isn’t just important, it’s an essential safety requirement. Here are the key UK standards you need to know: EN131 : The European standard for ladders, covering professional and non-professional use ( BS EN131 is the British version which came into force from 2019). Ladders compliant with EN131 are rigorously tested for strength, stability, and durability. BS2037/BS1129 : Now withdrawn and replaced by EN131, however, these standards are still trusted in certain trade applications. PASMA : Ensures the safe use of mobile towers through training and certification. HSE Guidance : Outlines best practices for ladder use and fall protection when working at height. Before starting a job, always check that your ladder or access equipment is compliant with these standards — your safety depends on it. Choosing the Right Access Equipment for the Job Using the right ladder or access solution for your specific task is critical for safety and efficiency. Here’s how to choose wisely: Step Ladders - Ideal for jobs that require stable, low-level access, such as maintenance or indoor tasks. Tip : Calculate your working height requirement to assess how many treads you need on your step ladder, excluding the top 3 treads. Extension Ladders - Perfect for jobs requiring access to greater heights, such as roofing and exterior work. Tip : Ensure the ladder is set at the correct angle (1:4 ratio) and extends at least 1 metre above the landing point for safe use. Roof Ladders - Specifically designed for safe access to pitched roofs with hooks and reinforced stiles for added security. Tip : Always secure roof ladders before use and avoid overloading them. Mobile Towers - A safe solution for tasks requiring extended periods of access at height, such as construction or refurbishment projects. Tip : Ensure proper assembly and always follow PASMA guidance for safe use. By selecting the correct equipment, you reduce risks and improve efficiency on-site. Safety Tips for Working at Height Here are practical steps to ensure your safety when working with ladders and access equipment: ✅ Inspect Your Ladder Before Use: Check for visible damage like cracks, worn feet, or bent rungs. Ensure all components, including hinges and locks, are functioning properly. ✅ Follow the Three-Point Contact Rule: Always keep two hands and one foot (or two feet and one hand) on the ladder at all times. ✅ Secure the Ladder: Tie off ladders to a secure point or use stabilisers to prevent slipping or movement. ✅ Set Up on a Stable Surface: Avoid soft or uneven ground, and never use ladders in adverse weather conditions. ✅ Don’t Overreach: Keep your belt buckle between the stiles, and reposition the ladder if needed. ✅ Use the Right Weight Load: Ensure the ladder you’re using can safely carry your weight, tools, and materials. ✅ Stay Trained and Informed: Invest in training, like The Ladder Association or PASMA -certified courses, to understand safe working practices at height. By following these steps, you can significantly reduce the risk of accidents and create a safer work environment. Why Lyte Ladders Are the Trade Professional’s Choice At Lyte Ladders, we’ve been manufacturing high-quality access equipment in the UK for over 75 years, supporting trade professionals with products they can trust. Here’s why our ladders stand out: ✔️ Built for Professionals : Our ladders and towers are designed specifically for trade and industrial use, combining strength, durability, and reliability. ✔️ Fully Compliant: Lyte products adhere to relevant safety standards, ensuring you can work with confidence. ✔️ UK-Made Quality: Manufactured in our Swansea-based factory, our products are tested rigorously to withstand daily professional use. ✔️ Sustainability Focus: We’ve introduced green aluminium and sustainable practices, ensuring our products are not only strong but eco-friendly. When it comes to working at height, don’t settle for less—choose Lyte for access solutions that prioritise your safety and efficiency. Safety Starts with the Right Equipment For trade professionals, working at height safely requires preparation, the right equipment, and an understanding of industry standards. By choosing high-quality, compliant ladders and following safety best practices, you can protect yourself and your team while getting the job done efficiently. At Lyte Ladders, we’re here to support you with access solutions built for the demands of professional use. 👉 Explore our range of professional ladders and towers here . Your safety is our priority — let’s keep you working at height confidently and securely.

Working at height brings inherent risks, especially on sloped surfaces like roofs. To minimise these risks, it’s vital to use the correct access equipment. For roofing tasks, a dedicated roof ladder, such as Lyte’s market-leading TRL range, offers safety, efficiency, and protection for both the worker and the roof itself. While it may be tempting to use accessories like ridge hooks to convert a standard extension ladder into a roof ladder, this practice introduces significant hazards. As Chris Loynes, Lyte’s Health & Safety expert, explains: “A roof ladder should be a standalone product specifically designed for roof work. Accessories cannot replicate the safety and functionality of a purpose-built roof ladder.” Here’s why using the right access equipment matters and how roof ladders provide unmatched safety and reliability. Roof Ladders are Designed with Safety in Mind Roof ladders are purpose-built to tackle the unique challenges of working on sloped surfaces. Features like bearer bars, round ridged rungs, and ridge hooks are essential for: Protecting Roof Tiles: Roof ladders feature bearer bars with rubber or foam-coated stand-offs. These bars create a gap between the roof and the ladder, distributing weight evenly and protecting tiles from damage. Conversion kits for extension ladders lack this feature, which increases the risk of broken tiles. Ensuring Secure Footing: Roof ladders have round ridged rungs, designed to provide maximum grip on sloped roofs with angles between 25-60 degrees. In contrast, standard extension ladders with square or angled rungs are not designed for this purpose and can compromise footing. Preventing Ladder Movement: A robust ridge hook is critical for securing the ladder to the roof ridge. Roof ladders include heavy-duty hooks with large rubber-sleeved end bars, ensuring stability and preventing the ladder from slipping. According to The Ladder Association and HSE , using the right ladder for the task is essential for reducing fall risks and ensuring safe working conditions. Why Accessories Fall Short Conversion kits that attach ridge hooks to standard extension ladders may seem like a cost-effective solution, but they introduce serious limitations: No Weight Distribution: Standard ladders lack bearer bars, putting excessive pressure on roof tiles, leading to potential breakage. Restricted Footing: Accessories don’t account for the gap between the ladder and the roof, forcing users to rely on narrow toe holds rather than stable footing. Safety Hazards: Without proper design elements like ridge hooks and angled rungs, converted ladders are prone to slippage and instability. Choosing the Right Roof Ladder for the Job Dedicated roof ladders, like Lyte’s TRL Trade Roof Ladders , come in various sizes to suit specific tasks. Here are key features to look for: Lightweight and Durable Materials: Aluminium roof ladders, such as the TRL range, are lightweight for easy positioning without compromising strength. Heavy-Duty Ridge Hooks: Look for a large, rubber-coated end bar to secure the ladder safely to the roof. Size Options: Roof ladders come in different lengths to ensure the perfect fit for various roof designs and angles. Choosing the right ladder ensures you can complete roofing projects efficiently, safely, and without risking damage to property. Best Practices for Working Safely at Height To further reduce risks when working on roofs, follow these best practices, as outlined by HSE and The Ladder Association: Inspect Your Equipment: Check your roof ladder for any damage or wear before use. Ensure ridge hooks and bearer bars are intact and functioning properly. Position the Ladder Correctly: Place the roof ladder securely, ensuring the ridge hook is firmly attached and the bearer bars are properly aligned with the roof tiles. Maintain Three Points of Contact: Always keep two hands and one foot, or two feet and one hand, in contact with the ladder while climbing or working. Use Fall Protection: For extended work at height, consider using fall arrest systems, as recommended by HSE. Roof work demands the right tools to ensure safety and efficiency. Dedicated roof ladders, like Lyte’s TRL Trade Roof Ladders, provide features that accessories and conversion kits simply cannot replicate. By investing in purpose-built access equipment, you protect not only yourself but also the property you’re working on. When it comes to safety at height, shortcuts are never worth the risk. Choose a roof ladder designed for the job and work with confidence. 👉 Explore Lyte’s TRL Trade Roof Ladders here: TRL Trade Roof Ladders #LadderSafety #WorkAtHeight #RoofLadders #LyteLadders #HSEGuidelines

We are ensuring sustainability is at the heart of our operations at Lyte Ladders, and we’re proud to use Recycled Low-Carbon Aluminium 4.0 in the rungs of our ladders and treads of our steps. However, the sustainability benefits of aluminium don’t stop there. Aluminium is one of the most recyclable materials in the world, making ladders made from this versatile metal a smart choice for environmentally conscious businesses and individuals alike. Why Aluminium is a Sustainable Choice Aluminium is often referred to as the “green metal” because of its unique properties: • Infinite Recyclability: Unlike many other materials, aluminium can be recycled indefinitely without losing its strength or durability. This means old aluminium can be reprocessed to create new products, including ladders, with no compromise on quality. • Energy Savings: Recycling aluminium uses 95% less energy than producing it from raw materials. This drastic energy saving translates to a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions. • Circular Economy: Recycling aluminium supports a circular economy where materials are reused, not wasted. This reduces the demand for mining new raw materials, conserving natural resources for future generations. Recycling Aluminium Ladders in the UK The UK is well-equipped to recycle aluminium ladders, with facilities across the country capable of handling this versatile material. Here’s how it works: • Community Recycling Centres: Many local recycling centres accept aluminium items, including ladders. Simply check with your local council for drop-off points in your area. • Scrap Metal Facilities: Specialist scrap yards actively purchase aluminium scrap for recycling. Aluminium ladders can be taken to these facilities, where they’re processed into raw materials for new products. By taking your ladder to the right facility, you can help reduce waste and contribute to a more sustainable recycling process. How to Prepare Aluminium Ladders for Recycling To ensure your ladder is recycled efficiently, some preparation is required. Here’s a quick guide: • Remove Non-Aluminium Components: Any plastic or rubber feet and caps, plus steel bolts should be removed before recycling. These components can often be recycled separately. • Peel Off Labels: Remove adhesive labels, stickers, and any other non-aluminium material that could contaminate the recycling process. • Check with the Facility: If in doubt, check with your chosen recycling centre or scrap yard for specific preparation requirements. Some facilities are equipped to handle minor contaminants. Proper preparation not only ensures the recycling process is smoother but also improves the quality of the recycled aluminium, making it easier to reuse. The Benefits of Recycling Aluminium Ladders Recycling aluminium ladders isn’t just good for the environment — it’s also a win for businesses and individuals alike: • Lower Carbon Footprint: Recycling saves energy and reduces emissions, helping both individuals and organisations meet their sustainability goals. • Cost-Effective: Aluminium’s recyclability helps keep raw material costs down, ensuring sustainable products remain affordable. • Support for the UK Economy: By recycling in the UK, we reduce reliance on imported materials and support local recycling facilities, jobs, and industries. A Commitment to Sustainability at Lyte Ladders From using Recycled Low-Carbon Aluminium 4.0 in our rungs and treads to ensuring our products are repairable, we’re focused on reducing waste and minimising our environmental impact. By choosing aluminium ladders, you’re investing in a product that’s not only built to last but also built to be part of a sustainable future. Join Us in Building a Greener Future By recycling your old ladders and choosing products made from sustainable materials, you can play a vital role in reducing waste and conserving resources. Together, we can make a difference — one ladder at a time. If you’re interested in learning more about our sustainable products, get in touch with the Lyte team today. Let’s take steps toward a greener, more sustainable future.

Choosing Lyte Ladders means choosing a lower carbon footprint. Our UK-made products save on the emissions generated by long-distance shipping from the Far East. It’s a win for quality and the environment! Imported ladders typically travel thousands of miles before reaching the UK, generating substantial carbon emissions. In contrast, our ladders are manufactured locally, drastically reducing the emissions associated with transportation. This not only supports our commitment to sustainability but also ensures that our products are of the highest quality and reliability.  Let's take a deeper dive into the real environmental impact of these products, looking beyond just transportation emissions. By analysing the broader lifecycle of products — from raw material extraction to disposal — we can fully understand the carbon footprint of imported versus locally manufactured goods.

At Lyte Ladders, we believe that every step we take towards sustainability makes a difference — not just for our business, but for the planet. We’re proud to announce that all our ladders now feature Recycled Low-Carbon Aluminium 4.0 in their rungs, marking a significant advancement in our commitment to reducing our environmental footprint. This change reflects our ongoing drive to lead the industry in eco-friendly manufacturing practices, as outlined in our ambitious Carbon Reduction Plan. By integrating Green Aluminium into the core components of our products, we’re able to provide the same high-quality ladders you’ve come to rely on — while making a positive impact on the environment. What is Recycled Low-Carbon Aluminium 4.0? Recycled Low-Carbon Aluminium 4.0 is a cutting-edge material designed with sustainability in mind. It’s produced using a combination of recycled aluminium and renewable energy , including hydropower, which results in a significantly lower carbon footprint compared to traditional aluminium. In fact, this Green Aluminium has one of the lowest carbon footprints in the industry — just 4.0 kg CO2e per kg of aluminium , compared to the global average of 16.7 kg CO2e . This drastic reduction in emissions makes Recycled Low-Carbon Aluminium 4.0 a vital part of our efforts to create a greener future. The Environmental Benefits of Green Aluminium Reduced Carbon Footprint: The aluminium used in our rungs has a carbon footprint that’s up to 75% lower than traditional aluminium. This helps us get closer to our goal of achieving Net Zero emissions by 2050 , as outlined in our Carbon Reduction Plan. Sustainable Sourcing: Recycled Low-Carbon Aluminium 4.0 is made using post-consumer recycled materials and renewable energy. By relying on recycled aluminium, we’re reducing the need for new resources, promoting circular economy principles, and cutting down on energy use in production. High-Quality, Long-Lasting Products: While sustainability is a priority, we know that our customers expect the best from Lyte Ladders. The use of Green Aluminium in our rungs does not compromise on quality. Our products are as strong, durable, and safe as ever—now with the added benefit of being better for the environment. Why We’re Using Green Aluminium in Our Rungs At Lyte Ladders, we’ve made a deliberate decision to incorporate Recycled Low-Carbon Aluminium 4.0 into the rungs of our ladders — one of the most critical components for product performance and safety. By focusing on this essential part of our ladders, we can significantly lower the environmental impact of our products without compromising on quality, safety, or durability. Our customers can continue to trust that Lyte Ladders are built to the highest standards, all while knowing they are making a more eco-conscious choice. However, to ensure that we can consistently meet demand and maintain stock availability for our customers, we’ve opted to continue using multiple sources of premium aluminium for the stiles (the vertical parts of the ladder). This approach allows us to maintain a reliable supply chain, ensuring that our customers never face shortages or delays in receiving the high-quality products they expect. While the stiles are not yet made with Green Aluminium, this careful sourcing ensures that we can balance sustainability with the reliability and consistency our customers depend on. A Step Forward in Lyte’s Carbon Reduction Plan This transition to Green Aluminium is a key part of Lyte Ladders’ Carbon Reduction Plan , which focuses on reducing our carbon emissions across all aspects of the business. Alongside other initiatives like the installation of solar panels and electric vehicle (EV) charging stations at our facility, the use of low-carbon materials plays a major role in our journey to a more sustainable future. We are committed to continuing this journey by exploring new ways to make our products and processes even more eco-friendly. The integration of Recycled Low-Carbon Aluminium 4.0 is a major milestone, but it’s just the beginning of what we aim to achieve as a leader in sustainable manufacturing. Keep following our progress! Join Us on Our Journey By choosing Lyte Ladders, you’re not only investing in high-quality ladders that are built to last — you’re also supporting our mission to reduce carbon emissions and protect the planet for future generations. We invite you to join us on this sustainability journey. Together, we can take steps toward a greener, more responsible future. Learn more about our Carbon Reduction Plan and how we’re leading the way in sustainable manufacturing. #Sustainability #GreenAluminium #LyteLadders #CarbonReduction #EcoFriendly #GreenManufacturing #RecycledAluminium #UKManufacturing #NetZero2050

In a world where sustainability is becoming increasingly important, the concept of repairable products is gaining momentum. At Lyte Ladders, we are proud to offer a range of products that can be repaired, extending their lifespan and significantly reducing their environmental impact. By choosing products that can be repaired rather than replaced, you help reduce waste, conserve resources, and minimise your carbon footprint. Benefits of Repairable Products Extended Product Lifespan: Repairable products are designed with durability in mind. When a part wears out or breaks, it can be replaced, allowing the product to continue serving its purpose for many more years. This not only saves you money but also reduces the demand for new products, which in turn conserves resources and energy. Reduced Waste: By repairing products instead of discarding them, we significantly reduce the amount of waste that ends up in landfills. This is crucial for reducing environmental pollution and conserving landfill space, which is becoming increasingly scarce. Lower Carbon Footprint: Manufacturing new products typically involves high energy consumption and carbon emissions. By extending the life of a product through repair, you reduce the need for new manufacturing, thereby lowering your overall carbon footprint. Lyte Ladders’ Commitment to Repairability At Lyte Ladders, we believe in the importance of sustainability, which is why we offer a wide range of repairable products. Our ladders and access equipment are built to last, but when repairs are needed, we provide the necessary parts and guidance to keep your products in top condition. We’ve made it easy for our customers to maintain and repair their Lyte products with our comprehensive Lyte Repair Guide . This guide offers step-by-step instructions on how to identify and replace parts, ensuring your ladder or access equipment continues to perform reliably. How to Use the Lyte Repair Guide Our Lyte Repair Guide is designed to be user-friendly, providing clear instructions and illustrations for repairing a variety of our products. Here’s how you can make the most of it: Identify the Issue: Start by identifying the part that needs repair or replacement. The guide includes detailed diagrams and descriptions to help you pinpoint the problem. Order Replacement Parts: Once you know what needs fixing, you can order the appropriate replacement parts directly through our customer service team. Follow the Repair Instructions: The guide provides step-by-step instructions for disassembling and reassembling parts, ensuring the repair process is straightforward and stress-free. Join Us in Promoting Sustainability By choosing repairable products from Lyte Ladders, you are making a conscious decision to support sustainability and reduce your environmental impact. We encourage you to explore our Lyte Repair Guide and take advantage of the benefits that come with extending the life of your products. Let’s work together to create a more sustainable future, one repair at a time. #Sustainability #RepairableProducts #LyteLadders #EnvironmentalImpact #GreenLiving #EcoFriendly #WasteReduction #RepairGuide #UKManufacturing

As the leading manufacturer of ladders and access equipment in the UK, we recognise the importance of reducing our carbon footprint and leading by example in the industry. Two major projects currently underway at Lyte Ladders reflect this commitment: the installation of a state-of-the-art solar power system and the introduction of electric vehicle (EV) charging stations at our facility. These initiatives are not only pivotal in reducing our environmental impact but also serve as cornerstones of our long-term sustainability strategy. Harnessing Solar Power for a Greener Future One of the most significant steps we’ve taken towards a sustainable future is the installation of a 350kW solar power system at our manufacturing facility. This initiative is a game-changer in how we power our operations, drastically reducing our reliance on non-renewable energy sources. The solar power system, comprised of 814 Canadian solar panels and 3 Solis inverters, is expected to generate approximately 320mW of electricity annually. This is not just a number—this is the equivalent of reducing our CO2 emissions by a staggering 68,318 kg CO2e each year. The implementation of solar energy at Lyte Ladders is a testament to our commitment to innovative, sustainable solutions. This project is a major milestone in our journey towards achieving Net Zero emissions by 2050. Driving Towards a Sustainable Future by Supporting Electric Vehicles Sustainability doesn’t stop at how we generate energy—it extends to how we use it. In line with this, we are installing three electric vehicle (EV) charging stations at our facility. This initiative is part of our broader strategy to support green transportation options and further reduce our carbon footprint. As electric vehicles become more popular, the need for charging infrastructure is critical. By installing EV chargers, we’re not just providing a convenience for our employees and visitors—we’re encouraging the adoption of cleaner, greener modes of transport. This move aligns with our values and supports the global shift towards electric vehicles, which are essential for reducing transportation-related emissions. Join Us on Our Journey to Net Zero At Lyte Ladders, our solar power installation and EV charging stations are just two examples of how we are actively working to reduce our environmental impact and promote sustainability. These initiatives are part of a broader commitment to integrating sustainable practices into every aspect of our operations. By harnessing solar energy and supporting the transition to electric vehicles, we are not only reducing our carbon footprint but also setting a standard for sustainability in the manufacturing industry. We believe that these projects will not only benefit our business and our employees but also contribute to a healthier planet for future generations. As we continue to innovate and expand our sustainability efforts, we invite our customers, partners, and the wider community to join us on this journey towards a greener, more sustainable future. Together, we can make a significant difference. #Sustainability #SolarEnergy #ElectricVehicles #LyteLadders #GreenManufacturing #CarbonReduction #RenewableEnergy #EcoFriendly #NetZero2050 #UKManufacturing