This document describes the BORMANN PRO Telescopic Ladder, models BHL5710 and BHL5720, designed for domestic use as a climbing aid for home, garden, and hobbies. It is not a toy and children should be supervised to prevent play with the ladder system.
Technical Specifications
The telescopic ladder is available in two models with different lengths and steps:
- BHL5710: 1.9+1.9m / 12 steps
- BHL5720: 2.2+2.2m / 14 steps
The maximum total load for this ladder is 150kg (330lbs).
The 3.8m and 3.2m ladder models are supplied with a stabiliser bar, while the 2.0m and 2.6m models do not include it. The stabiliser bar must be fitted before use for the models that include it.
Main Parts
The ladder consists of several key components:
- Top Bar: The uppermost section of the ladder.
- Storage Strap: Used to secure the ladder when collapsed for storage or transport.
- Locking Mechanisms: Steel locking pins that automatically engage to secure each rung when the ladder is extended. These mechanisms must be checked for proper function before each use.
- Hand Grips: Located on either side of each rung, used for extending and collapsing the ladder.
- Telescopic Tubes: The extendable sections of the ladder that allow for adjustable height.
- Bottom Rung: The lowest step, used for stabilisation during operation.
- Stabiliser Bar: An optional component (for specific models) that enhances stability.
Usage Features
The telescopic ladder can be used at various heights for different tasks, including fully closed, intermediate length, and full length.
Before Use:
- Fitness: Ensure you are physically fit enough to use a ladder. Medical conditions, medication, alcohol, or drug abuse can make ladder use unsafe.
- Inspection: Before each use, check that all locking mechanisms are working properly. Do not use the ladder if any mechanism is faulty. Visually inspect the ladder for damage.
- Attire: Wear tight-fitting clothing, remove jewellery, and tie back long hair. Always wear suitable footwear (flat, dry, treaded shoes with securely tied laces).
- Environment: Ensure the surface supporting the ladder can bear the combined weight of the ladder, operator, and any carried objects. Secure doors (except fire exits) and windows in the work area. Avoid distractions.
- Electrical Risks: Identify and avoid electrical risks like overhead lines or exposed equipment. This ladder does not offer electrical insulation.
- Suitability: Ensure the ladder is suitable for the task. If unsure, consult a qualified person.
Positioning and Erecting:
- Preparation: Ensure the ladder is fully collapsed, all locks are secured, and it is free from contaminants before moving it to the work area.
- Location: Erect and close the ladder only in a safe work area. Do not move the ladder when it is erect.
- Base: Position and use the ladder only on an even, level, and unmovable base.
- Angle: For leaning ladders, maintain an angle of approximately 1:4 (e.g., 1m away from the wall for every 4m climbed), with rungs level.
- Stability: Always position the ladder against a flat, non-fragile surface and secure it properly (e.g., tied down or with a stability device).
- Locking: All extended rung sections' locking mechanisms must be locked before use. Never attempt to move or reposition the ladder from above.
Using the Ladder:
- Load Limit: Do not exceed the maximum total load of 150kg/330lbs.
- One User: Only one person should use the ladder at a time.
- Duration: Use for light work of short duration.
- Safety: Maintain three points of contact with the ladder at all times (e.g., two feet on the same rung and one hand on the stiles). Use additional safety equipment if necessary.
- Working Position: Maintain a handhold while working. Do not overreach; keep your belt buckle (navel) inside the stiles and both feet on the same step/rung. Avoid sideways loads (e.g., side-on drilling).
- Climbing: Face the ladder and keep a secure grip when ascending and descending. Climb and descend with deliberate movements. Do not slide down the stiles.
- Children: Take precautions to prevent children from playing on the ladder.
- Weather: Do not use the ladder outdoors in adverse weather conditions (strong wind or rain).
- Unattended: Do not leave an extended ladder unattended.
- Tools: Do not place tools or objects on the rungs or hang anything on the ladder system. Carried equipment should be light and easy to handle.
- Top Rungs: Do not stand on the top three rungs; this can cause stability issues.
- Bridge Use: Do not use the ladder as a bridge.
- Access to Higher Levels: When used for access, extend the ladder at least 1m above the landing point. Do not step off a leaning ladder at a higher level without additional security.
- Side Stepping: Do not step off the side of the ladder.
- Breaks: Take regular breaks to avoid fatigue.
Opening the Ladder (Intermediate Length):
- Place the ladder on a firm, level surface.
- Place your foot on the Bottom Rung (6) to stabilise the ladder.
- Starting from the second rung from the bottom, grasp the Hand Grips (4) on either side of the rung with both hands and pull upwards to extend the step.
- Listen for a "click" to confirm the locking mechanisms (3) are engaged for each fully extended step.
Opening the Ladder (Full Length):
- Place the ladder on a firm, level surface.
- Place your foot on the Bottom Rung (6) to stabilise the ladder.
- Starting from the Top Bar (1), grasp the Hand Grips (4) on either side of the rung with both hands and pull upwards to extend the step.
- Listen for a "click" to confirm the locking mechanisms (3) are engaged for each fully extended step.
- Important: When opening to full length, always extend from top to bottom.
Closing the Ladder:
- Hold the ladder in an upright position.
- Place one foot on the Bottom Rung (6) to stabilise the ladder.
- Starting from the lowest extended rung, grasp the Hand Grips (4) on either side of the rung with both hands, then use your thumbs to disengage the Locking Mechanisms (3).
- To collapse the ladder to its closed position, push the Locking Mechanisms (3) together simultaneously and release.
- Close one rung at a time, taking care not to catch fingers, clothing, or hair in the mechanisms.
Maintenance Features
Storage, Care & Maintenance:
- Storage: Store the product carefully in a secure, dry place, out of reach of children. Store indoors in a dry environment, away from contaminants. Store only when dry, with the base firmly on the ground.
- Cleaning: Always clean the ladder before and after use. The Telescopic Tubes (5) must be kept clean; dirt, filings, paint, glue, etc., must be cleaned with a clean cloth after use and before closing. Clean the rungs as well.
- Stubborn Stains: For tougher stains, use a small amount of non-abrasive cleaner with a soft tissue or cloth.
- Lubrication: After cleaning, treat the telescopic tubes with a silicon spray by opening all sections, spraying, and wiping them clean with a paper towel or dry cloth.
- End Caps: The end caps must always be sealed to prevent dirt and other objects from entering the body and damaging the telescopic tubes.
- Damage: Any damage to the ladder should be repaired by a qualified person only. Do not use a damaged ladder as it poses a severe risk of accident or injury and will void your warranty.
Troubleshooting:
- Locking mechanisms will not engage: The rungs are not properly positioned. Extend to the maximum height for the rung and attempt to secure again.
- Telescopic tubes are stiff: The ladder is dirty/contaminated and must be cleaned as instructed in the 'Care & Maintenance' section.
This manual provides essential information for the safe and effective use of the BORMANN PRO Telescopic Ladder. Adherence to these guidelines is crucial for ensuring product longevity, user safety, and warranty validity.