Ladder

Abstract

Ladder 10 comprising first 16, 18 and second 22, 24 pairs of side rails joined by a pivot connection, with rungs rigidly attached to each rail of the first pair, with rungs arranged transverse to the

Description

FIELD The present invention relates to ladders and access platforms. BACKGROUND Conventional stepladders, tripod ladders and access platforms comprise left side and right-side rails and a plurality of rungs rigidly attached between the side rails. Ladders that are used in connection with activities such as hedge trimming, and tree pruning are often positioned on uneven ground. This poses a substantial risk of serious injury. Certain ladder types have been developed such that the base of the ladder is wider than the top of the ladder. This provides increased stability at the base without increasing the size of the rest of the ladder. While ladders of this type are somewhat effective at increasing stability, it is at the cost of a small space envelope. The wider ladder base requires more storage space than a conventional ladder with parallel rails along their length. Furthermore, the wider ladder base may prove difficult to fit through tight spaces and it may not be possible to use the ladder in certain locations. In addition, many ladders still have a fixed base that has no, or limited, adjustability. This can still result in instability where the ladder is to be used on a slope or rough terrain. It is against this background that the present invention has arisen. SUMMARY In one aspect of the invention a ladder comprises a first pair of side rails spaced apart in a parallel arrangement by a plurality of rungs arranged transverse to the first pair of side rails, each end of each of the plurality of rungs being rigidly attached to a respective on of the first pair of side rails; a second pair of side rails spaced apart in a parallel arrangement by a plurality of rungs arranged transverse to the second pair of side rails, each end of each of the plurality of rungs being rigidly attached to a respective one of the second pair of side rails; a pair of pivot connections joining the first pair of side rails and second pair of side rails together and permitting the first pair of side rails and second pair of side rails to pivot relative from one another between a first configuration in which the ladder is stowed and a second configuration in which the ladder is deployed; and a guardrail sat atop the first pair of side rails, the guardrail comprising a tubular member that is configured to fold substantially flat against the first pair of side rails when the ladder is in the stowed configuration and to be orientated substantially horizontally when the ladder is the deployed configuration, the guard rail being lockable relative to the first pair of side rails by a locking mechanism, the locking mechanism being configured to allow movement of the guard rail relative to the first pair of side rails when the locking mechanism is released and to prevent movement of the guard rail relative to the first pair of side rails when the locking mechanism is engaged. The novel guardrail of the claimed invention provides a number of advantages over the prior art. Space-saving: When the ladder is in the stowed configuration, the guard rail can fold against the side rails, which means that the ladder takes up less space. This is particularly useful for people who have limited storage space and need to store the ladder in a small area. Safety: The guard rail provides an added level of safety for the user when the ladder is in the deployed configuration. It acts as a barrier, preventing the user from accidentally falling off the ladder. It also helps to keep the user from overreaching and losing balance. Convenience: The guard rail is lockable relative to the first pair of side rails by a locking mechanism, this provides ease of use and it can be locked into place quickly and easily. Stability: The guard rail is designed to be orientated substantially horizontally when the ladder is deployed, this increases the stability and makes the ladder more secure when in use. In one embodiment, the guardrail comprises a tubular member that extends generally in a ‘U’ shape with a single open face, the single open face having a pair of sprung loaded barrier members attached perpendicularly thereto and facing inwardly toward one another and defining a gap therebetween, the sprung loaded barrier members being configured such that they may be pivoted inwardly relative to the tubular member to allow access by a person into a space bounded by the guardrail and to resist pivoting outwardly and as an extension of the guardrail when a person is in a position bounded by the guardrail. The sprung loaded barrier members provide an added level of safety by making it more difficult for the user to fall off the ladder. The barrier members are designed to resist pivoting outwardly when a person is in a position bounded by the ‘U” shaped guardrail. In one embodiment, the locking mechanism comprises a handle mounting a pin that is held captive to the ladder and biased in a lock position by a spring, wherein the locking mechanism is released by pulling the handled outwardly to overcome the spring resistance. The locking mechanism provides several advantages. Safety: The locking mechanism is designed to keep the guard rail secure in place and prevent it from moving when the ladder is in use, this increases the safety of the ladder and reduces the risk of accidents. Easy to use: The locking mechanism comprises a handle that is easy to grip and manipulate, this allows the user to quickly and easily release the guard rail when it is needed. Durable: The locking mechanism is made up of a handle mounting a pin that is held captive to the ladder and biased in a lock position by a spring, this design ensures the locking mechanism is durable and long lasting. Convenience: The locking mechanism is designed to be released by pulling the handle outwardly to overcome the spring resistance, this allows the user to open the guard rail with one hand, which can be very convenient in certain situations. Smooth operation: The spring bias in the lock position ensures that the lock mechanism operates smoothly and provides a consistent locking experience. Ease of maintenance: The locking mechanism is designed to be simple and easy to maintain, this makes it less likely to break or malfunction, thus reducing the need for maintenance and repairs. In one embodiment, the ladder further comprises a platform pivotally attached to the first ladder section and supported by the second ladder section when the ladder is in a deployed configuration, and a platform support frame positioned above the platform, the platform support frame configured to enable folding of the platform upwardly against the first ladder section when the ladder is in a stowed configuration. The platform provides several advantages: Increased versatility: The addition of a platform pivotally attached to the ladder allows the user to perform tasks at a higher level and makes the ladder more versatile, enabling a wider range of tasks to be performed. Improved stability: The platform is supported by the second ladder section when the ladder is in a deployed configuration, this provides added stability to the ladder and increases safety while working on the platform. Space-saving: The platform support frame is configured to enable folding of the platform upwardly against the first ladder section when the ladder is in a stowed configuration, this allows the ladder to take up less space when not in use, making it more convenient to store. In one embodiment, the platform support frame is pivotably attached at a first end thereof to the first ladder section and, in use, is supported by the second ladder section when the ladder is in a deployed configuration, the platform support frame being further attached to a midpoint of the platform by a first support member and the midpoint of the platform is also pivotably attached to the second ladder section by a second support member. Improved stability: The platform support frame is pivotably attached at a first end thereof to the first ladder section and supported by the second ladder section when the ladder is in a deployed configuration. This design allows for the platform support frame to be securely attached to both ladder sections, providing added stability to the ladder and increasing safety while working on the platform. Improved safety: The platform support frame is attached to both ladder sections and the platform, this design reduces the chances of the platform and support frame separating from the ladder and increasing safety for the user. In one embodiment, the ladder further comprises a ground engaging member associated with each side rail of the first pair of side rails and second pair of side rails, at least some of the ground engaging members comprising a spigot and a foot maintained in a fixed angular orientation relative to one another, the foot being extendible and retractable relative to the spigot by way of an adjustment wheel that may be rotated in a first direction to extend the foot and in a second direction to retract the foot. Ground engaging members according to embodiments of the invention provide several advantages: Stability: The ground engaging members ensure that the ladder is stable and remains upright when in use. This is especially important when working at height. Adjustability: The adjustment wheel allows the user to adjust the length of the foot, which can be useful for uneven ground or for achieving the desired height for the ladder. Durability: The spigot and foot being maintained in a fixed angular orientation relative to one another, allows the ladder to remain stable and prevents twisting or bending of the ladder which can cause damage over time. Convenience: The adjustment wheel allows the user to easily extend or retract the foot, which can be convenient when setting up or taking down the ladder. Safety: Extendable and retractable feet increase the ladder's stability, which can help prevent accidents and improve safety when working at height. In one embodiment, the ladder further comprises a supporting splay configured to move between a stowed configuration in which the supporting splay is folded substantially flat against the second pair of side rails and a deployed configuration in which the supporting splay is deployed laterally relative to the second pair of side rails to provide increased width of the second pair of side rails, the supporting splay comprising a pair of splay members, each splay member being pivotally connected at one end thereof to a respective one of the second pair of side rails at a fixed location and slidably connected at the other end thereof to a respective one of the second pair of side rails at a second location positioned below the fixed location of the pivot connection, wherein sliding a splay member upwardly relative to a respective one of the second pair of side rails permits the splay member to be folded into the stowed configuration. The advantages of having a supporting splay that can be moved between a stowed and deployed configuration include: Increased stability: the supporting splay provides a wider base for the ladder, which increases its stability when in use, especially in scenarios where the ladder is placed on uneven or soft ground. Increased safety: the increased width of the ladder in the deployed configuration can provide a larger and more secure working area for the user, reducing the risk of falls or other accidents. Convenience: The ladder can be easily adjusted to different widths depending on the task at hand, which can be beneficial for various applications, for example when working in a confined space, or when working with large tools. Flexibility: The ladder's ability to fold into a stowed configuration allows for easy transport and storage, making it more versatile and convenient to use in different situations. The ladder is designed in a way that the supporting splay members are pivotally connected at one end to the second pair of side rails at a fixed location, this allows the ladder to be more stable in the deployed configuration while still allowing the splay members to be folded into the stowed configuration. The ladder is also designed in a way that the splay members are slidably connected at the other end to the second pair of side rails at a second location positioned below the fixed location of the pivot connection. This allows for a smooth folding and deploying of the splay members, which can enhance the user experience. In one embodiment, the splay member further comprises a lever and a slider, the lever being pivotally attached at a first end to the splay member and at a second end to the slider. The inclusion of a lever and slider in the splay member allows for easy and convenient adjustment of the splay member between its stowed and deployed configurations. The lever provides a mechanical advantage, making it easier to move the splay member from one configuration to the other. The slider allows for a smooth and controlled movement of the splay member, which can prevent damage to the ladder or injury to the user. Additionally, this design can also provide for more fine-tuned adjustments of the width of the ladder, allowing for more stability and support when in the deployed configuration. In one embodiment, one or both of the pair of side rails of the first ladder section or second ladder section comprises a channelled profile configured to receive a leg extension member. The inclusion of a channelled profile in one or both of the pair of side rails of the first ladder section or second ladder section allows for the ladder to be easily extended by inserting leg extension members into the channel. This feature increases the overall height of the ladder, making it more versatile and suitable for a variety of tasks that require a taller ladder. Additionally, the ability to add or remove leg extension members as needed allows for the ladder to be adjusted to the specific needs of a task, rather than having to use a ladder that is too tall or too short. In one embodiment, the ladder further comprises at least one pair of leg extension members, each leg extension member being received by a channelled profile, the first and / or second ladder sections further comprising a locking mechanism associated with each side rail to selectively lock the position of the leg extension member relative to the first ladder section or second ladder section. The benefit of having a channelled profile on one or both of the ladder sections, and the use of leg extension members that can be received by this profile, is that it allows for the ladder to be adjusted to different lengths. The locking mechanism associated with each side rail ensures that the position of the leg extension member is securely locked in place, providing stability and safety for the user. Additionally, this feature allows the ladder to be extended or shortened to suit the needs of the user, and to reach different heights, which can be useful in different work environments or tasks that require varying ladder lengths. In another aspect of the invention, a ladder comprising a first pair of side rails spaced apart in a parallel arrangement by a plurality of rungs arranged transverse to the first pair of side rails, each end of each of the plurality of rungs being rigidly attached to a respective on of the first pair of side rails; a second pair of side rails spaced apart in a parallel arrangement by a plurality of rungs arranged transverse to the second pair of side rails, each end of each of the plurality of rungs being rigidly attached to a respective one of the second pair of side rails; a pair of pivot connections joining the first pair of side rails and second pair of side rails together and permitting the first pair of side rails and second pair of side rails to pivot relative from one another between a first configuration in which the ladder is stowed and a second configuration in which the ladder is deployed; and a guardrail sat atop the first pair of side rails, the guardrail comprising a tubular member that extends generally in a ‘U’ shape with a single open face, the single open face having a pair of sprung loaded barrier members attached perpendicularly thereto and facing inwardly toward one another and defining a gap therebetween, the sprung loaded barrier members being configured such that they may be pivoted inwardly relative to the tubular member to allow access by a person into a space bounded by the guardrail and to resist pivoting outwardly and as a an extension of the guardrail when a person is in a position bounded by the guardrail. The ladder is equipped with a guardrail which sits atop the first pair of side rails. This guardrail is designed to provide an extra layer of safety for the user by preventing them from falling off the ladder. The guardrail is tubular in shape, with a pair of sprung loaded barrier members that are attached perpendicularly and facing inwardly. These barrier members can be pivoted inwardly to allow access by a person into a space bounded by the guardrail and resist pivoting outwardly, providing a secure and stable barrier. Overall, these features of ladder make it safe and versatile, providing extra safety and stability for the user in different working conditions. Another aspect of the invention provides a ladder comprising a first pair of side rails spaced apart in a parallel arrangement by a plurality of rungs arranged transverse to the first pair of side rails, each end of each of the plurality of rungs being rigidly attached to a respective on of the first pair of side rails; a second pair of side rails spaced apart in a parallel arrangement by a plurality of rungs arranged transverse to the second pair of side rails, each end of each of the plurality of rungs being rigidly attached to a respective one of the second pair of side rails; a pair of pivot connections joining the first pair of side rails and second pair of side rails together and permitting the first pair of side rails and second pair of side rails to pivot relative from one another between a first configuration in which the ladder is stowed and a second configuration in which the ladder is deployed; a ground engaging member associated with each side rail of the first pair of side rails and second pair of side rails, at least some of the ground engaging members comprising a spigot and a foot maintained in a fixed angular orientation relative to one another, the foot being extendible and retractable relative to the spigot by way of an adjustment wheel that may be rotated in a first direction to extend the foot and in a second direction to retract the foot. The ladder according to aspect of the invention has several advantages: The ground engaging member with a spigot and foot allows the ladder to have a stable base, and the ability to adjust the foot's position relative to the spigot using an adjustment wheel provides added stability and versatility. The fixed angular orientation of the foot to the spigot allows the ladder to maintain a consistent and secure footing, reducing the risk of accidents. The use of an adjustment wheel to extend and retract the foot allows for easy and safe adjustments to the ladder's height and stability on uneven surfaces. Another aspect of the invention provides a ladder comprising a first pair of side rails spaced apart in a parallel arrangement by a plurality of rungs arranged transverse to the first pair of side rails, each end of each of the plurality of rungs being rigidly attached to a respective on of the first pair of side rails; a second pair of side rails spaced apart in a parallel arrangement by a plurality of rungs arranged transverse to the second pair of side rails, each end of each of the plurality of rungs being rigidly attached to a respective one of the second pair of side rails; a pair of pivot connections joining the first pair of side rails and second pair of side rails together and permitting the first pair of side rails and second pair of side rails to pivot relative from one another between a first configuration in which the ladder is stowed and a second configuration in which the ladder is deployed; and a supporting splay configured to move between a stowed configuration in which the supporting splay is folded substantially flat against the second pair of side rails and a deployed configuration in which the supporting splay is deployed laterally relative to the second pair of side rails to provide increased width of the second pair of side rails, the supporting splay comprising a pair of splay members, each splay member being pivotally connected at one end thereof to a respective one of the second pair of side rails at a fixed location and slidably connected at the other end thereof to a respective one of the second pair of side rails at a second location positioned below the fixed location of the pivot connection, wherein sliding a splay member upwardly relative to a respective one of the second pair of side rails permits the splay member to be folded into the stowed configuration. The ladder according to this aspect of the invention has several advantages including a supporting splay that provides increased width to the ladder when in use. Additionally, the supporting splay can be folded flat against the ladder when not in use, making it more compact and convenient to store. The ladder also includes a pair of splay members that can be slid and pivotally connected to the second pair of side rails, which allows for easy movement between the stowed and deployed configurations. This improves the stability of the ladder and provides a greater surface area for the user. Further areas of applicability of the present invention will become apparent from the detailed description provided hereinafter. The detailed description and specific examples, while indicating the preferred embodiment of the invention, are intended to be given by way of example only. FIGURES Aspects and embodiments of the invention will now be described by way of reference to the following figures. FIG. 1 illustrates an isometric view of a first embodiment of ladder in a deployed configuration according to the present disclosure. FIG. 2 illustrates an isometric view of the ladder of FIG. 1 in a stowed configuration. FIG. 3 illustrates a first adjustable foot as utilised by embodiments of the invention. FIG. 4 illustrates a second adjustable foot as utilised by embodiments of the invention. FIG. 5 illustrates a secondary support splay mechanism as utilised by embodiments of the invention. FIG. 6 illustrates a platform as utilised by embodiments of the invention. FIG. 7 illustrates a guardrail as utilised by embodiments of the invention. FIG. 8 illustrates a locking mechanism as utilised by embodiments of the invention. FIG. 9 illustrates an isometric view of a second embodiment of ladder in a deployed configuration according to the present disclosure. FIG. 10 illustrates an isometric view of the ladder of FIG. 9 in a stowed configuration. FIG. 11 illustrates an isometric view of a third embodiment of ladder in a deployed configuration according to the present disclosure. FIG. 12 illustrates an isometric view of the ladder of FIG. 11 in a stowed configuration. FIG. 13 illustrates an isometric view of the ladder of FIGS. 11 and 12 in a deployed and extended configuration. FIG. 14 illustrates an isometric view of a fourth embodiment of ladder in a deployed configuration according to the present disclosure. FIG. 15 illustrate an isometric view of the ladder of FIG. 14 in a stowed configuration. FIG. 16 illustrates an isometric view of the ladder of FIGs, 14 and 15 in a deployed and extended configuration. DESCRIPTION The following description of the preferred embodiment(s) is merely exemplary in nature and is no way intended to limit the invention, its application, or uses. The description of illustrative embodiments according to principles of the present invention is intended to be read in connection with the accompanying drawings, which are to be considered part of the entire written description. In the description of embodiments of the invention disclosed herein, any reference to direction or orientation is merely intended for convenience of description and is not intended in any way to limit the scope of the present invention. Relative terms such as “lower,” “upper,” “horizontal,” “vertical,” “above,” “below,” “up,” “down,” “top” and “bottom” as well as derivatives thereof (e.g., “horizontally,” “downwardly,” “upwardly,” etc.) should be construed to refer to the orientation as then described or as shown in the drawing under discussion. These relative terms are for convenience of description only and do not require that the apparatus be constructed or operated in a particular orientation unless explicitly indicated as such. Terms such as “attached,” “affixed,” “connected,” “coupled,” “interconnected,” and similar refer to a relationship wherein structures are secured or attached to one another either directly or indirectly through intervening structures, as well as both movable or rigid attachments or relationships, unless expressly described otherwise. Moreover, the features and benefits of the invention are illustrated by reference to the exemplified embodiments. Accordingly, the invention expressly should not be limited to such exemplary embodiments illustrating some possible non-limiting combination of features that may exist alone or in other combinations of features; the scope of the invention being defined by the claims appended hereto. A first aspect of ladder (10) is shown in FIGs. 1 and 2. The ladder (10) comprises a first ladder section (12) and second ladder section (14). The first ladder section (12) comprises a first side rail (16) and second side rail (18) and a plurality of rungs (20) extending between the side rails (16, 18). The second ladder section (14) comprises a first side rail (22) and second side rail (24) with at least one brace (26) extending between the first and second side rails (22, 24). The first ladder section (12) and second ladder section (14) are hingedly attached at an upper end thereof such that the first ladder section (12) and second ladder section (14) are hinged and moveable relative to one another between a first, deployed configuration and a second, stowed configuration. The ladder (10) is lockable in the stowed and / or deployed configuration by a pair of locking mechanisms (28) between respective pairs of first side rails (16, 22) and second side rails (18, 24) of the first ladder section (12) and second ladder section (14) respectively. The first and second side rails (16, 18) of the first ladder section (12) further comprise individual feet (30), as shown in FIGs. 3 and 4, slidably moveable relative to the first or second side rail (16, 18) respectively. Each foot (30) is slidable within a guide member (32) fixed to an outer face of respective side rails (16, 18). Each foot comprises an insert (34) that is received within the guide member (32) and rotationally fixed. The guide member (32) receives a captive nut (38) that is engaged by an adjustment bolt (40). The adjustment bolt (40) is fixed to a foot cover (42) by way of a mounting bracket (44). An adjustment wheel (46) is fixed to the adjustment bolt (40) by way of a speed nut (48). Rotation of the adjustment wheel (46) in a first direction causes the adjustment bolt (40) to extend from the captive nut (38) and the foot (30) and the insert (34) to be moved longitudinally downwardly and away from the guide member (32). Rotation of the adjustment wheel (46) in a second direction causes the adjustment bolt (42) to retract into the captive nut (38) and the foot (30) and the insert (34) to be moved longitudinally upwards and towards the guide member (32). A safety sticker (50) may be applied to the insert (34). The safety sticker (50) may comprise a single colour or pattern which signifies to a user that the foot (30) is extended to either a safe or unsafe extent. In some embodiments, a first colour may be used to signify to a user that the foot (30) is extended to a safe extent and a second colour may be used to signify to a user that the foot (30) is extended to an unsafe extent. The foot (30) may be of fixed orientation as per FIG. 3. In other embodiments, as shown in FIG. 4, the foot (30) may comprise a substantially planar base with ribs (52) transitioning from the edge of the foot (30) to a pivotal connection point (54). The pivotal connection point (54) joins the foot (30) to the insert (34) such that the angle of the foot (30) may be adjusted to provide a stable base on uneven ground. The foot (30) may be formed from metal, plastic, or any other suitable material. The second ladder section (14) further comprises a pair of extensible secondary support legs (56), or splays, as shown in detail in FIG. 5, that are pivotally attached to the side rails (22, 24) of the second ladder section (14). Each secondary support leg (56) defines a pivotal connection (58) at a first end thereof. The pivotal connection (58) of each secondary support leg (56) connects to an attachment point on a respective side rail (22, 24). A second end of each support leg (56) defines a lever (60) mounted between the secondary support leg (56) and a respective side rail (22, 24) of the second ladder section (14). The mounting connection between the lever (60) and secondary support leg (56) is in the form of a pivot. The mounting connection between the lever (60) and the side rail (22. 24) is in the form of a slider (62) pivotally connected to the second end of the lever (60). In use, the lever (60) is extended substantially horizontally, and the slider is positioned in a first longitudinal position towards the lower end of a side rail (22, 24) when the secondary support leg (56) is extended. To stow the secondary support leg (56), the slider (62) is movable along a respective side rail (22, 24) between the first position and a second longitudinal position above the first longitudinal position. The action of moving the slider (62) upwardly causes the lever to pivot with respect to both the secondary support leg (56) and slider (62) such that the secondary support leg (56) is stowed against a side rail (22, 24). A platform (64), as illustrated in FIG. 6, spans between the first ladder section (12) and second ladder section (14) when the ladder (10) is in use. The platform (64) is pivotally connected to the first and second side rails (16, 18) of the first ladder section (12) and supported by a platform support (66) forming part of the first and second side rails (22, 24) of the second ladder section (14). In some embodiments, the platform (64) is further supported by a folding mechanism (68) comprising a frame (70) that is pivotally connected to the first and second side rails (16, 18) of the first ladder section (12). The frame (70) is positioned above the platform (64) and comprises a support member (72) that connects the frame (70) to a midpoint of the side of the platform (64). A further support member (74) connects the same midpoint of the platform (64) to one of the first and second side rails (22, 24) of the second ladder section (14). The frame (70) is supported by the second ladder section (14) by a pair of support formations (76). When the ladder (10) is stowed, lifting of the platform (64) away from the second ladder section (14) causes the platform (64) and the frame (70) to pivot relative to the first ladder section (12). The support member (72) pivots relative to both the frame (70) and platform (64). The support member (74) pivots relative to both the platform and the second ladder section (14). A support structure (80), or guardrail, as illustrated in FIG. 7, is provided at the top of the ladder (10) and is defined by a series of tubes forming a generally square or rectangular shape. The support structure has three closed faces (82) and a fourth partially open face (84). The partially open face (84) comprises a pair of sprung loaded barrier members (86) configured to provide a barrier across the partially open face (84) in use. The sprung loaded barrier members (86) are configured to enable a user to push them inwardly to provide access to the platform (64). Once the user is positioned on the platform, the sprung loaded barrier members (86) are configured to revert to their natural position and provide a barrier against the user falling off the platform (64). The support structure (80) is rotatably mounted to the ladder (10) and lockable in both stowed and extended configurations by way of a locking mechanism (28). The locking mechanism (28), as illustrated in FIG. 8, comprises a twist-lock handle (87) having a pin (88) formed from a first part (90) having a first outer diameter and a second part (92) having a second outer diameter, greater than the first outer diameter. A spring (94) surrounds the pin (88) and is compressed between a shoulder (96) defined between the first part (90) and second part (92) of the pin (88) and a part of the ladder (10). The twist-lock handle (87) is attached to the outward facing end of the pin (88). The spring (94) biases the pin (88) in an engaged position such that it is normally engaged with a locking hole of the ladder (10). The twist-lock handle (87) may be rotated through ninety degrees to facilitate releasing of the locking mechanism (28) by the user pulling the handle toward himself / herself. This act causes the strength of the spring (94) to be overcome and the pin (88) moving out of engagement with a locking hole of the ladder (10). Releasing the twist-lock handle (87), causes the pin (88) to move back into engagement with a locking hole of the ladder (10). Multiple locking mechanisms (28) may be provided to allow selective locking and unlocking of certain parts of the ladder (10). The handle (87) is secured to the pin (88) by way of a bolt (95) engaging both the handle (87) and locking pin (88). A second embodiment of ladder (100) is shown at FIGs. 9 and 10. A leg extension (102) is positioned within the guide member (32). A locking mechanism (28) facilitates extension and retraction of the leg extension (102). The foot (30) is mounted to the end of the leg extension (102). A third embodiment of ladder (200) is shown at FIGs. 11-13. The first ladder section (12) comprises an outer channel (202) and an inner shaft (204) defining each of the first and second side rails (12,14). The second ladder section (14) comprises an outer channel (206) and an inner shaft (208) defining each of the first and second side rails (16, 18). The inner shaft (204, 208) of each of the first and second side rails (12, 14 and 16, 18) are configured to slide within respective outer channels between an extended configuration in which the height of the ladder (200) is maximised and the stowed configuration. The relative height of the ladder (200) is controlled by a locking mechanism (28) positioned between the outer channel (202,206) and inner shaft (204, 208) of each side rail (12, 14, 16, 18). A fourth embodiment of ladder (300) is shown at FIGs. 14-16. The first ladder section (12) comprises an outer channel (302) and an inner shaft (304) defining each of the first and second side rails (12,14). The second ladder section (14) comprises an outer channel (306) and an inner shaft (308) defining each of the first and second side rails (16, 18). The inner shaft (304, 308) of each of the first and second side rails (12, 14 and 16, 18) are configured to slide within respective outer channels between an extended configuration in which the height of the ladder (300) is maximised and the stowed configuration. The relative height of the ladder (300) is controlled by a locking mechanism (28) positioned between the outer channel (302,306) and inner shaft (304, 208) of each side rail (12, 14, 16, 18). A leg extension (310) is positioned within the guide member (32). A locking mechanism (28) facilitates extension and retraction of the leg extension (310). The foot (30) is mounted to the end of the leg extension (310). The above embodiments are exemplary only, and other possibilities and alternatives within the scope of the appended claims will be apparent to those skilled in the art. For example, the described embodiments of ladders may each utilise features that are common across the embodiments. This is more clearly depicted in the figures.

Claims

1. A ladder comprising a first pair of side rails spaced apart in a parallel arrangement by a plurality of rungs arranged transverse to the first pair of side rails, each end of each of the plurality of rungs being rigidly attached to a respective on of the first pair of side rails; a second pair of side rails spaced apart in a parallel arrangement by a plurality of rungs arranged transverse to the second pair of side rails, each end of each of the plurality of rungs being rigidly attached to a respective one of the second pair of side rails; a pair of pivot connections joining the first pair of side rails and second pair of side rails together and permitting the first pair of side rails and second pair of side rails to pivot relative from one another between a first configuration in which the ladder is stowed and a second configuration in which the ladder is deployed; and a guardrail sat atop the first pair of side rails, the guardrail comprising a tubular member that is configured to fold substantially flat against the first pair of side rails when the ladder is in the stowed configuration and to be orientated substantially horizontally when the ladder is the deployed configuration, the guard rail being lockable relative to the first pair of side rails by a locking mechanism, the locking mechanism being configured to allow movement of the guard rail relative to the first pair of side rails when the locking mechanism is released and to prevent movement of the guard rail relative to the first pair of side rails when the locking mechanism is engaged.

2. A ladder according to claim 1 further comprising a guardrail sat atop the first pair of side rails, the guardrail comprising a tubular member that extends generally in a ‘U’ shape with a single open face, the single open face having a pair of sprung loaded barrier members attached perpendicularly thereto and facing inwardly toward one another and defining a gap therebetween, the sprung loaded barrier members being configured such that they may be pivoted inwardly relative to the tubular member to allow access by a person into a space bounded by the guardrail and to resist pivoting outwardly and as an extension of the guardrail when a person is in a position bounded by the guardrail.

3. A ladder according to claim 2, wherein the locking mechanism comprises a handle mounting a pin that is held captive to the ladder and biased in a lock position by a spring, wherein the locking mechanism is released by pulling the handled outwardly to overcome the spring resistance.

4. A ladder according to any of claims 1 to 3 further comprising a platform pivotally attached to the first ladder section and supported by the second ladder section when the ladder is in a deployed configuration, and a platform support frame positioned above the platform, the platform support frame configured to enable folding of the platform upwardly against the first ladder section when the ladder is in a stowed configuration.

5. A ladder according to claim 4, wherein the platform support frame is pivotably attached at a first end thereof to the first ladder section and, in use, is supported by the second ladder section when the ladder is in a deployed configuration, the platform support frame being further attached to a midpoint of the platform by a first support member and the midpoint of the platform is also pivotably attached to the second ladder section by a second support member.

6. A ladder according to any of claims 1 to 5, further comprising a ground engaging member associated with each side rail of the first pair of side rails and second pair of side rails, at least some of the ground engaging members comprising a spigot and a foot maintained in a fixed angular orientation relative to one another, the foot being extendible and retractable relative to the spigot by way of an adjustment wheel that may be rotated in a first direction to extend the foot and in a second direction to retract the foot.

7. A ladder according to any of claims 1 to 6, further comprising a supporting splay configured to move between a stowed configuration in which the supporting splay is folded substantially flat against the second pair of side rails and a deployed configuration in which the supporting splay is deployed laterally relative to the second pair of side rails to provide increased width of the second pair of side rails, the supporting splay comprising a pair of splay members, each splay member being pivotally connected at one end thereof to a respective one of the second pair of side rails at a fixed location and slidably connected at the other end thereof to a respective one of the second pair of side rails at a second location positioned below the fixed location of the pivot connection, wherein sliding a splay member upwardly relative to a respective one of the second pair of side rails permits the splay member to be folded into the stowed configuration.

8. A ladder according to claim 7, wherein the splay member further comprises a lever and a slider, the lever being pivotally attached at a first end to the splay member and at a second end to the slider.

9. A ladder according to any of claims 1 to 8, wherein one or both of the pair of side rails of the first ladder section or second ladder section comprises a channelled profile configured to receive a leg extension member.

10. A ladder according to claim 9 comprising at least one pair of leg extension members, each leg extension member being received by a channelled profile, the first and / or second ladder sections further comprising a locking mechanism associated with each side rail to selectively lock the position of the leg extension member relative to the first ladder section or second ladder section.

11. A ladder comprising a first pair of side rails spaced apart in a parallel arrangement by a plurality of rungs arranged transverse to the first pair of side rails, each end of each of the plurality of rungs being rigidly attached to a respective on of the first pair of side rails; a second pair of side rails spaced apart in a parallel arrangement by a plurality of rungs arranged transverse to the second pair of side rails, each end of each of the plurality of rungs being rigidly attached to a respective one of the second pair of side rails; a pair of pivot connections joining the first pair of side rails and second pair of side rails together and permitting the first pair of side rails and second pair of side rails to pivot relative from one another between a first configuration in which the ladder is stowed and a second configuration in which the ladder is deployed; and a guardrail sat atop the first pair of side rails, the guardrail comprising a tubular member that extends generally in a ‘U’ shape with a single open face, the single open face having a pair of sprung loaded barrier members attached perpendicularly thereto and facing inwardly toward one another and defining a gap therebetween, the sprung loaded barrier members being configured such that they may be pivoted inwardly relative to the tubular member to allow access by a person into a space bounded by the guardrail and to resist pivoting outwardly and as a an extension of the guardrail when a person is in a position bounded by the guardrail.

12. A ladder comprising a first pair of side rails spaced apart in a parallel arrangementby a plurality of rungs arranged transverse to the first pair of side rails, each end of each of the plurality of rungs being rigidly attached to a respective on of the first pair of side rails; a second pair of side rails spaced apart in a parallel arrangement by a plurality of rungs arranged transverse to the second pair of side rails, each end of each of the plurality of rungs being rigidly attached to a respective one of the second pair of side rails; a pair of pivot connections joining the first pair of side rails and second pair of side rails together and permitting the first pair of side rails and second pair of side rails to pivot relative from one another between a first configuration in which the ladder is stowed and a second configuration in which the ladder is deployed; a ground engaging member associated with each side rail of the first pair of side rails and second pair of side rails, at least some of the ground engaging members comprising a spigot and a foot maintained in a fixed angular orientation relative to one another, the foot being extendible and retractable relative to the spigot by way of an adjustment wheel that may be rotated in a first direction to extend the foot and in a second direction to retract the foot.

13. A ladder comprising a first pair of side rails spaced apart in a parallel arrangement by a plurality of rungs arranged transverse to the first pair of side rails, each end of each of the plurality of rungs being rigidly attached to a respective on of the first pair of side rails; a second pair of side rails spaced apart in a parallel arrangement by a plurality of rungs arranged transverse to the second pair of side rails, each end of each of the plurality of rungs being rigidly attached to a respective one of the second pair of side rails; a pair of pivot connections joining the first pair of side rails and second pair of side rails together and permitting the first pair of side rails and second pair of side rails to pivot relative from one another between a first configuration in which the ladder is stowed and a second configuration in which the ladder is deployed; and a supporting splay configured to move between a stowed configuration in which the supporting splay is folded substantially flat against the second pair of side rails and a deployed configuration in which the supporting splay is deployed laterally relative to the second pair of side rails to provide increased width of the second pair of side rails, the supporting splay comprising a pair of splay members, each splay member being pivotally connected at one end thereof to a respective one of the second pair of side rails at a fixed location and slidably connected at the other end thereof to a respective one of the second pair of side rails at a second location positioned below the fixedlocation of the pivot connection, wherein sliding a splay member upwardly relative to a respective one of the second pair of side rails permits the splay member to be folded into the stowed configuration.

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