DIN 18799-1: Germany’s updated fixed ladder standards
Did you know Germany implemented new fixed ladder regulations in 2019?
Every year, workers face severe injuries or worse because ladders safety isn’t always ensured. Moreover, despite advances in workplace safety, accidents continue to happen, which clearly highlights the need for stronger measures.
In response to these ongoing risks, Germany updated its ladder regulations, introducing the amended standard current version DIN 18799-1:2019-06. Published in June 2019, this update specifically focuses on fixed ladders with two uprights, aiming to improve safety in everyday use.
Understanding DIN 18799 Standard
DIN 18799 is a series of Germany´s standards that defines safety requirements and testing criteria for fixed ladder systems in construction. The standard is divided into three parts, each covering specific ladder systems and components:
- Part 1: Applies to a fixed ladder with two uprights
- Part 2: Applies to a fixed ladder with one upright
- Part 3: Applies to accessories and associated safety equipment
For this news article, the focus is Part 1, which covers fixed ladders with two uprights.
Key changes to the current version of DIN 18799-1:2019-06
Compared to the 2009 edition, the 2019 amendment introduced significant updates, reflecting modern safety practices and technical requirements. Notably, key changes include:
- Round rungs are no longer permitted on vertical ladders, as they do not provide a secure footing.
- Vertical ladders on buildings must be equipped with safety railing (back protection or fall protection) for total fall heights over 3.0 m (previously over 5.0 m).
- The score of the application extended by additional requirements for vertical ladder systems on chimneys and antenna support structures.
Because these three points have the most direct effect on ladder safety, design, and regulatory compliance, companies across Germany now face the challenge of not only meeting the standards but also ensuring ladders used in daily operations provide maximum safety. In practice, this means that ladders must be reviewed — and, where necessary, upgraded—to meet the updated amendments.
For a detailed overview of the changes, you can refer to the MUNK Group’s detailed explanation here: DIN-18799-1:2019-06.
Upgrade Ladder Safety with Our Solutions
Since the amendment in 2019, round rungs on stationary ladders have been classified as a safety risk. To address these challenges, Real Safety offers practical and effective solutions to upgrade existing ladders without full replacement.
With our innovative approach, our anti-slip U-profile ladder rung covers, convert existing round rungs on vertical ladders into a square and slip-resistant (R13) rung shape in accordance with DIN 18799-01. As a result, you can instantly upgrade ladder safety without replacing the entire ladder. Improve safety instantly – click here to watch our installation guide and see how it works.
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We will be exhibiting at A+A International Trade Fair in Düsseldorf. From November 4–7, make sure to visit us in Hall 4, Stand 4B30, where our team will be ready to welcome you. There, you’ll have the chance to see our ladder safety solutions up close and discover how they can support compliance, creating a safer workplace. And if you have any questions, please feel free to contact us.
