A construction worker leans a single ladder against a wooden beam structure.

Work safety with TRBS 2121-2

Workplace safety is our top priority: HAILO Master professional ladders have it built into their DNA.

The German Technical Rules for Operational Safety (TRBS) contain the latest standards in technology, occupational health and workplace hygiene. They bring together work science findings on the safe use of work equipment. TRBS 2121 Part 2 specifically addresses the risks to employees when using ladders.

If employers comply with these technical rules, they can be confident that requirements are met. However, alternative solutions are also allowed. With TRBS-compliant ladders by HAILO Master, both employers and employees enjoy double protection.

What is allowed?

Infographic Ladder as a traffic route

Ladders as a means of access

on steps or rungs

Ladders (stepladders and rung ladders) used to climb up to or down from elevated work areas are permitted, provided the difference in height does not exceed 5 metres.

Ladders used to climb upwards must extend at least 1 meter beyond the exit point.

Infographic Ladder as a workplace

Ladders as a work space

on a step, platform or hang-in step

Due to the risk of falling and the greater ergonomic strain, portable ladders may only be used as an elevated work space if the employee stands with both feet on a step, platform or hang-in step and their standing position on the ladder is no higher than 5 metres above the supporting surface.

When the standing height is between 2 and 5 metres, work may only be performed for up to 2 hours per work shift.

Work in compliance with TRBS 2121 with HAILO Master

Our certified HAILO Master ladders meet all TRBS 2121-2 requirements for ergonomic, efficient and, especially, safe working at any height.

TRBS 2121-2
HAILO Master D80
Aluminium double-sided folding step
2 x 2 - 2 x 3 Steps

from €199.00*
TRBS 2121-2
HAILO Master D70
Aluminium double-sided folding step
2 x 2 - 2 x 3 Steps

from €119.00*
TRBS 2121-2
HAILO Master P80
Aluminium platform ladder
5 Steps

€799.00*
TRBS 2121-2
( 25 )
HAILO Master TL100
Aluminium telescopic stepladder
5 Steps

€279.00*
TRBS 2121-2
HAILO Master M100
Aluminium multipurpose stepladder

from €488.99*
TRBS 2121-2
( 9 )
HAILO Master DTL100
Aluminium telescopic double-sided step ladder
2 x 4 - 2 x 6 Steps

€299.00*
TRBS 2121-2
HAILO Master D100
Aluminium double-sided stepladder
2 x 5 - 2 x 7 Steps

from €289.00*
TRBS 2121-2
( 3 )
HAILO Master S120
Aluminium multi-purpose ladder
3 x 12 Rungs

€698.99*
TRBS 2121-2
( 1 )
HAILO Master S110
Aluminium multi-purpose ladder
2 x 12 Rungs

€599.00*
TRBS 2121-2
HAILO Master H80
Wooden double-sided stepladder
2 x 4 - 2 x 8 Steps

from €149.00*
TRBS 2121-2
( 15 )
HAILO Master T100
Aluminium telescopic safety ladder
9-13 Steps

from €229.00*
TRBS 2121-2
HAILO Master A60
Aluminium-step lean-to ladder
9-12 Steps

from €299.00*

Frequent questions about TRBS 2121-2

TRBS 2121 Part 2 determines the safe use of ladders in the workplace. It specifies when ladders may be used as work spaces and provides guidelines for their selection, installation and regular inspection.
TRBS 2121 Part 2 stipulates ladders can be used to access work spaces, provided the difference in height does not exceed 5 meters. Ladders may be used as a work space if the employee is safely positioned with both feet on a step, platform or hang-in step. The standing position on the ladder may be a maximum of 5 metres above the supporting surface. When the standing height is between 2 and 5 metres, work may only be performed for up to 2 hours per work shift.
The limit aims to reduce the risk of falls. If employees use steps, platforms or hang-in steps, they have a significantly safer footing than on rungs.
Employers are obliged to perform a risk assessment, provide suitable ladders, train employees on safe handling and ensure regular inspections are performed.
Safety is guaranteed by manufacturing ladders based on the relevant standards, ensuring correct selection and use and having qualified individuals perform regular inspections. Ladders must be inspected at least once a year; shorter inspection intervals may be advisable for heavy use or special conditions.
Ladders are and will remain essential work equipment because they are flexible, save space and can be used instantly. The requirements specified in TRBS 2121 Part 2 make ladders safer to use without sacrificing any of their advantages.

Transforming rung ladders into a work space with a hang-in step

Using HAILO hang-in steps can transform rung ladders into a safe work space in compliance with TRBS 2121-2.

Illustration of the attachment of a suspended step
Illustration of the use of a suspended step
Illustration of the attachment of a suspended step
Illustration of the use of a suspended step
A person stands with both feet on a suspended step attached to a rung ladder