Safety and operating guide – Tripod ladder for orchard
Tripod ladder for orchard - 3-legged stepladder
⚠️ Mandatory Reading Before Use
🔴 1. Scope of Use
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This ladder is intended for agricultural work and orchard use. It is designed for use on soft ground (soil, grass, natural surfaces). Only one person is allowed at a time. Always strictly respect the maximum load rating. This equipment must not be modified or repaired. Designed for short-duration tasks only.
🔧 2. Pre-Use Inspection
✔️ Check before each use:
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Structural integrity (no cracks, deformation, or damaged welds)
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Stability of steps and secure foot attachments
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Proper operation of locking system and safety pin
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Safe adjustment of the third leg
⛔ Remove from service immediately if any defect is found.
⚙️ 3. Setup
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Install on a stable, firm, and suitable surface (preferably soft ground).
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Adjust the rear leg according to the terrain.
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Maintain a proper working angle (~75°).
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Ensure full deployment and secure locking.
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Position the rear leg centered.
⚠️ 4. Hazardous Environments (Prohibited)
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Hard, slippery, or unsuitable surfaces without protection
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Snow, ice, excessive mud, or unstable ground
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Adverse weather conditions (wind, storms, low visibility)
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Near electrical sources or dangerous obstacles
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Leaning against structures (walls, trees, etc.)
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Unbalanced leg positioning
👷 5. Safe Use
✔️ Required behavior:
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Always face the ladder
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Maintain 3 points of contact
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Climb and descend carefully, without rushing
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Stay centered on the steps
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Maintain stable and controlled balance
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🚫 Prohibited uses:
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Adjusting or moving the ladder while standing on it
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Carrying objects while climbing or descending
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Overreaching or working off-center
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Standing above the safe working height
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Using as a support, platform, or trestle
🧼 6. Maintenance
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Keep the ladder clean, dry, and slip-resistant.
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Remove all contaminants (oil, mud, ice, chemicals).
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Avoid any residue that may cause corrosion or slipping.
📦 7. Transport
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Do not drag on the ground.
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Handle using the main structure (avoid lifting by the rear leg alone).
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Secure properly without excessive compression.
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Stabilize all moving parts before transport.
🏠 8. Storage
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Store in a dry, clean, and protected area.
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Keep away from corrosive agents.
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Do not place any load or materials on the ladder.
⛔ 9. Removal from Service
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Any ladder showing defects must be removed from service immediately.
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No repairs are permitted.
📋 10. Compliance, Safety & Standards
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Refer to fall prevention guidelines.
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Follow safe work practices for harvesting and short-duration work at height.
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Comply with all applicable standards and regulations based on the ladder manufacturer, the tools used, and the type of work performed, as well as the requirements of competent authorities (e.g., CNESST, CSA, CCHST, Légis Québec, RSST, CST, WSPS Canada, etc.).
⚠️ 11. Equipment Selection
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Use a ladder appropriate for the height and type of work.
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Incorrect sizing reduces stability and safety.
EN 131 standard: a guarantee of quality for professional ladders
A Standard Beneficial for Both Professionals and Individuals
When working at height, safety should never be taken lightly. The EN 131 standard is now a recognized benchmark that governs the manufacturing and performance of ladders. It represents a guarantee of quality, stability, and reliability for both professional users and individuals.
What is the EN 131 Standard?
The EN 131 standard is a European regulation that defines technical requirements for various types of ladders, step ladders, and platforms. It aims to improve user safety through stricter criteria related to strength, stability, and durability.
This standard has become an important reference when selecting more reliable equipment for working at height.
Why is the EN 131 Standard a Mark of Quality?
Choosing a ladder that complies with the EN 131 standard means selecting a product designed to meet high technical requirements. This standard helps to:
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improve equipment stability
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reduce the risk of slipping or deformation
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enhance product durability
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provide a higher level of user safety
In practical terms, an EN 131 compliant ladder offers greater confidence for tasks requiring precision, balance, and consistency.
Rigorous Testing for Enhanced Safety
The EN 131 standard is based on a series of technical tests designed to evaluate ladder performance. These include:
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load resistance
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torsion strength
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slip resistance
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product endurance
These tests ensure that the equipment maintains safe performance under normal usage conditions.
A Standard for Both Professionals and Individuals
Whether for outdoor maintenance, pruning, access work, or other tasks at height, an EN 131 compliant ladder represents a safer and more reliable choice. This compliance helps users select equipment better suited to field conditions and safety expectations.
EN 131 and Risk Prevention
Falls related to working at height remain a major concern. The EN 131 standard aims to reduce these risks by requiring better-designed and thoroughly tested products. It serves as a valuable reference in a proactive approach to safety and quality equipment selection.
An Important Criterion When Choosing a Ladder
Before purchasing a ladder, it is important to verify whether the model complies with a recognized standard. EN 131 compliance can be considered a strong indicator of reliability, especially for users looking for:
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a more robust product
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improved stability
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a design validated through precise testing
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greater confidence during use
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Conclusion
The EN 131 standard is more than just a technical reference. It represents a true mark of quality for ladders used in working at height. By choosing compliant equipment, you invest in reliability, safety, and long-term durability.