This European Standard specifies the general design features, requirements and test methods for portable ladders. It does not apply to step stools or ladders for specific professional use such as firebrigade ladders, roof ladders and mobile ladders. It does not apply to ladders used for work on or near live electrical systems or installations. For this purpose EN 61478 applies. NOTE For insulating ladders for use on or near low voltage electrical installations in the range below 1000 V a.c or 1 500 V d.c. EN 50528 is under preparation. This European Standard is intended to be used in conjunction with EN 131-1. For single or multiple hinge joint ladders EN 131-4 applies.