GB2568162A

GB2568162A - Ladder system

Info

Publication number: GB2568162A
Application number: GB1816515.9A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Brereton Geoff
Original assignee: Bakkavor Foods Ltd
Current assignee: Bakkavor Foods Ltd
Priority date: 2016-02-26
Filing date: 2017-02-27
Publication date: 2019-05-08
Anticipated expiration: 2037-02-27
Also published as: GB2549186B; GB201816515D0; GB2549186A; GB2568162B; GB201603410D0; GB201703135D0

Abstract

A system comprising a ladder 4, ladder guard 6 and a locking apparatus, the apparatus comprising a locking arrangement for securing the guard to the ladder at a position near a first end of the ladder, a first unlocking mechanism 14 located toward the first end comprising an actuator for locking the arrangement upon actuation, and a second unlocking mechanism 16 towards a second end of the ladder, spaced from the first, having a securing means, wherein on receipt of a key the securing means enables the locking arrangement to be unlocked, wherein the guard can move away from the ladder when the arrangement is unlocked. The locking armament may comprise an elongate rod 18 extending between the two unlocking mechanisms, the securing means at the lower end being a padlock and the actuator at the upper end being a hinged release plate. A user can open the guard from the top without a key to escape in an emergencies, but unauthorized access from the bottom is prevented by the secured guard.

Description

LADDER SYSTEM

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present disclosure relates to a locking apparatus for use with a guard, in particular a guard for preventing access to a ladder, and a ladder apparatus comprising such a locking system.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Roof voids of many buildings, in particular industrial buildings, are used to house equipment and conduits for services. Such equipment and conduits may relate, for example, to ventilation systems, air conditioning systems, heating systems, refrigeration systems, power supplies, and other supplies or systems housed in the roof void and servicing the spaces below in the main area of the building. This equipment requires inspection, maintenance, servicing and repair which necessitates access to the roof voids by maintenance personnel.

In order to provide safe working conditions, access to roof voids must be controlled such that access is restricted to authorised personnel who require access, for example to maintain equipment housed in the roof void. Such management of roof void access is, in some countries, demanded under health and safety legislation.

Access to roof voids is typically provided by ladders and use of such ladders can be restricted by a number of means. For example, the foot of the ladder can be provided within a lockable enclosure or room to restrict access to the ladder. This requires there to be sufficient space for a lockable enclosure or room. Alternatively, access to ladders at ground level can be controlled using padlocks to either release a lower portion of the ladder (which slides down to meet the ground), or release a guard which, when locked, prevents access to the rungs of the ladder.

These existing access control systems restrict access to a ladder by providing a lockable arrangement at ground level. Only users authorised to unlock these arrangements can gain access to the ladder and hence access the roof void. In the case where the roof void can be accessed via multiple ladders, this results in the problem of a user being restricted to exiting the roof void via the ladder used to access the roof void, since the other ladders will be locked. This creates a particular problem in the case of an emergency, for example a fire, where the ladder used to access the space may not be the closest for emergency egress. This arrangement is also not practical, for example, when carrying out buildings inspections.

Additionally, in existing access control systems, access to a ladder is controlled from the foot of the ladder and so inevitably the ladder must remain unlocked while the person is in the roof void. In this situation, anyone else could, without authorisation or the necessary training, use the ladder to get into the roof void, thus compromising health and safety management of the building.

For safe use of ladders, a user should maintain three points of contact with the ladder at all times (e.g. two hand and one foot, or two feet and one hand). Where a user is required to operate a lock while climbing a ladder, maintaining three points of contact is not always possible. For example, a ladder having a guard sometimes requires the user to mount the lower rungs and reach up to the locked guard. The guard will release downwards requiring the person to avoid it during its travel. In this case it is difficult for a user to maintain three points of contact.

In addition, traditional management of ladder access often requires a key for each ladder which, on larger premises can mean large bunches of keys. These are bulky and awkward to manage.

Embodiments described herein are intended to provide an improved locking apparatus to control access, for example, to a ladder.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In a first aspect, a locking apparatus for use with a ladder guard is provided, the locking apparatus comprising a first locking mechanism, a second locking mechanism, and an elongate member extending between the first and second locking mechanisms, the first locking mechanism comprising:

a locking element arranged for engagement with the elongate member such that, when the locking element and elongate member are engaged, movement of the locking element relative to the elongate member is inhibited, wherein the locking element is arranged to be operable between an open configuration and a closed configuration, wherein when in the open configuration, the locking element is disengaged from the elongate member and movement of the locking element relative to the elongate member is permitted, and when in the closed configuration and in engagement with the elongate member, movement of the locking element relative to the elongate member is inhibited;

wherein the first locking mechanism is arranged to be operable between a locked configuration and an unlocked configuration, wherein, when in the locked configuration the locking element occupies its closed configuration, and when in the unlocked configuration, the locking element occupies its open configuration; and the second locking mechanism comprising a securing mechanism arranged for engagement with the elongate member such that, when the securing mechanism engages the elongate member, movement of the elongate member out of engagement with the locking element is prevented, wherein the securing mechanism is arranged to be operable between an open configuration and a closed configuration, wherein, when in the open configuration, the securing mechanism is out of engagement with the elongate member and the elongate member is moveable out of engagement with the locking element, and when in the closed configuration, the securing mechanism engages the elongate member so that such movement of the elongate member is inhibited;

wherein the second locking mechanism is arranged to be operable between a locked configuration and an unlocked configuration, wherein, when in the locked configuration the securing mechanism occupies its closed configuration, and when in the unlocked configuration, the securing mechanism occupies its open configuration and the elongate member is disengaged from the locking element;

wherein movement of the locking element relative to the elongate member is permitted when at least one of the first and second locking mechanisms is in its unlocked configuration.

When the locking element and the elongate member are engaged, movement of the locking element relative to the elongate member is inhibited. Movement of the locking element relative to the elongate member may be achieved when at least one of the first and second locking mechanisms is in its unlocked configuration.

When the first locking mechanism is unlocked, the locking element is in its open configuration. This releases the locking element from the elongate member and so permits movement of the locking element relative to the elongate member. Movement of the elongate member is not required in order to allow movement of the locking element.

When the second locking mechanism is unlocked, the elongate member is moved out of engagement with the locking element. Movement of the elongate member out of engagement with the locking element mechanism releases the elongate member from the locking element and so permits movement of the locking element relative to the elongate member.

Therefore, when the second locking mechanism is unlocked, it is not necessary for the locking element to be in its open configuration to permit movement of the locking element relative to the elongate member.

When the second locking mechanism is in the locked configuration, movement of the elongate member is inhibited such that it is not possible to move the elongate member out of engagement with the locking element. However, when the second locking mechanism is in the locked configuration, movement of the locking element can be achieved via operation of the first locking mechanism. Although movement of the elongate member is inhibited such that the elongate member cannot be moved out of engagement with the locking element, the locking element can be operated to occupy its open configuration to permit movement of the locking element relative to the elongate member.

When the first locking mechanism is in the locked configuration, the locking element is closed and inhibits movement of the locking element relative to the elongate member. However, when the first locking mechanism is locked, movement of the locking element can be achieved via the second locking mechanism. Although the locking element is closed, the securing mechanism can be opened to release the elongate member for movement. The elongate member can then be moved out of engagement with the locking element to release the locking element for movement.

Providing two ways in which the locking element may be released for movement relative to the elongate member has the advantage that a user can release the locking element either by operating the first locking mechanism or by operating the second locking mechanism. This is particularly advantageous in the case where the first and second locking mechanisms are provided at either end of a ladder and are operable to release a ladder guard. This will now be described by way of example.

In an example, the first locking mechanism is provided at an upper end of a ladder, wherein the upper end of the ladder is provided within a roof void, and the second locking mechanism is provided at a lower end of the ladder, wherein the lower end of the ladder is provided in the main area of the building. The locking element of the first locking mechanism is coupled to a ladder guard and the elongate member is coupled to the ladder such that, when the elongate member and locking element are engaged, the ladder guard is retained in a fixed position with respect to the ladder, for example a closed position in which the ladder guard prevents access to the rungs of the ladder.

A person attempting to access the ladder from the bottom of the ladder may do so by operating the second locking mechanism to occupy its unlocked configuration. In this way, the elongate member is moved out of engagement with the locking element, releasing the locking element and hence enabling the ladder guard to be moved away from the ladder. Consequently access to the ladder is permitted.

A person attempting to access the ladder from the top may do so simply by operating the locking element to occupy its open configuration, thereby permitting movement of the locking element relative to the elongate member. Consequently, the ladder guard can be moved relative to the ladder in order to for a user to gain access to the rungs of a ladder. The ladder may therefore be accessed from either the top or bottom of the ladder. In particular, the ladder may be accessed from the top, irrespective of whether the person had entered the roof void via this ladder or another means; the user is simply required to operate the locking element. This provides an unobstructed escape route should a person be required to exit the roof void in an emergency.

When the second locking mechanism is in the locked configuration, the securing mechanism is closed and movement of the elongate member is inhibited such that it is not possible to move the elongate member out of engagement with the locking element. Accordingly, access to the ladder by movement of the elongate member is prevented. However, when the second locking mechanism is in the locked configuration, movement of the ladder guard can be achieved via the first locking mechanism. Although movement of the elongate member is inhibited such that the elongate member cannot be moved out of engagement with the locking element, the locking element can be operated to occupy its open configuration to disengage the locking element from the elongate member and permit movement of the locking element relative to the elongate member, hence permitting movement of the ladder guard away from the ladder. In this way, movement of the ladder guard is possible via the first locking mechanism irrespective of whether the second locking mechanism is in the locked or unlocked configuration.

In the context of a ladder providing access to a roof void in which the first locking mechanism is provided at top of the ladder and the second locking mechanism is provided at the bottom of the ladder, access to the ladder from the ground is restricted since a user must be able to unlock the second locking mechanism. Whereas access to the ladder at the top is possible simply by operation of the locking element, irrespective of whether the user is able to unlock the second locking mechanism. This provides an unobstructed exit from the roof void should this be required, whilst ensuring that only authorised personnel (i.e. those able to unlock the second locking mechanism) are able to access the roof void.

It will be understood that use of the locking apparatus is not limited to use with a ladder and ladder guard. The locking apparatus can be used in any arrangement in which the elongate member and locking element are coupled to separate components arranged for relative movement.

In some embodiments, the first locking mechanism comprises a release mechanism for opening and closing the locking element. In some embodiments the release mechanism is provided by the locking element e.g. the locking element may comprise a release plate having an aperture. In some embodiments, the release mechanism comprises an actuator, for example a push button, switch or other suitable actuator configured to operate the locking element between the open and closed configurations.

In some embodiments, operation of the securing mechanism from the closed to open configurations requires an access key.

In some embodiments, the elongate member comprises a longitudinal axis. In some embodiments, when the locking element and elongate member are engaged, movement of the locking element relative to the elongate member in a plane transverse to the longitudinal axis of the elongate member is inhibited, for example, a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis.

In some embodiments, operation of the first locking mechanism is independent of the second locking mechanism and vice versa.

In some embodiments, the locking element is displaceable between the closed and open configurations.

In some embodiments, the locking element comprises a resilient element configured to bias the locking element towards the closed configuration. In this way, the first locking mechanism tends towards the locked configuration. This provides a more secure locking apparatus.

In some embodiments, the locking element is configured to be manipulated to move the locking element from the closed configuration to the open configuration.

In some embodiments the locking element is moved away from the elongate member (e.g. substantially lifted away from the elongate member) as the locking element is moved from the closed configuration to the open configuration.

In some embodiments the locking element is arranged to rotate or pivot about an axis in order to disengage the elongate member and move the locking element from the closed position to the open position and vice versa. In this way, a simple means of moving the locking element between an open and closed position is provided.

In some embodiments the locking element is configured to rotate or pivot about a hinge which is substantially orthogonal to the longitudinal axis of the elongate member.

In some embodiments, the locking element comprises an aperture or recess arranged to receive the elongate member such that, when the locking element and the elongate member are engaged, the elongate member extends at least partially through the aperture or recess of the locking element. In this way a locking arrangement is provided.

In some embodiments the locking element comprises a release plate comprising the aperture or recess. In some embodiments the release plate is configured for rotation about an axis which is substantially orthogonal to a longitudinal axis of the elongate member.

In some embodiments, the locking element comprises a release plate configured for rotation about a hinge. In this way the locking element may be moved from a closed position to an open position, and vice versa, by movement of the release plate about the axis or hinge.

In some embodiments, the first locking mechanism comprises an adjustment mechanism configured to adjust the alignment of the locking element with respect to the elongate member.

In some embodiments the adjustment mechanism is arranged to adjust the distance between the release plate and a fixed portion of the first locking mechanism. This ensures effective positioning of the locking element to provide engagement and release of the elongate member from the locking element, for example the aperture of the release plate. In some embodiments, the adjustment mechanism comprises a plurality of bolts extending from the release plate to abut a fixed portion of the first locking mechanism, such that rotation of the bolts adjusts the distance between the release plate and the fixed portion.

In some embodiments the locking element comprises a ramp portion for engagement with the elongate member, wherein the ramp portion is profiled such that engagement with the elongate member causes the locking element to be moved to the open configuration.

Considering the case where the locking apparatus is used with a ladder and a ladder guard, for example, where the ramp portion is arranged for engagement with the elongate member, as the ladder guard moves to a closed position, the locking element is moved towards the elongate member. By engagement of the elongate member with the ramp portion, the locking element will automatically be moved into the open configuration. Therefore, engagement of the elongate member and the locking element is not inhibited. This facilitates retaining the ladder guard in the fixed position.

In some embodiments the elongate member is arranged for longitudinal movement such that the elongate member can be retracted out of engagement with the locking element.

In some embodiments the elongate member is retained in position between the first and second locking mechanisms by at least one support element configured to permit longitudinal movement of the elongate member, such that the elongate member can be retracted out of engagement with the locking element.

In the case where the first and second locking mechanisms are provided at either end of a ladder, the elongate member extends substantially along the length of the ladder between the locking mechanisms, for example, the elongate member may be coupled along a side rail of the ladder.

In some embodiments the access key required to release the securing mechanism is a physical key, a key code, or an RFID fob.

In some embodiments the securing mechanism comprises a fastening (e.g. a bolt) configured to engage a portion of the elongate member to restrict movement thereof.

In some embodiments the fastening is configured to intersect a portion of the elongate member.

The securing mechanism may be any suitable means for restricting movement of the elongate member, for example, a fastening or bolt configured to engage or intersect at least a portion of the elongate member, a clamp, or an electronic or magnetic locking mechanism configured to secure the elongate member against movement.

In a second aspect a ladder apparatus is provided comprising a ladder, a ladder guard and a locking apparatus as described herein, wherein the first locking mechanism is provided towards one end of the ladder and the second locking mechanism is provided towards the other end, and the elongate member extends therebetween along a length of the ladder, wherein, when the elongate member and the locking element are engaged, the ladder guard is held in a closed position to restrict access to the rungs of the ladder, and when the elongate member and the locking element are disengaged, the ladder guard is released for movement away from the ladder.

In some embodiments, the locking element is coupled to the ladder guard and the elongate member is coupled to the ladder. In some embodiments the locking element is coupled to the ladder and the elongate member is coupled to the ladder guard.

In some embodiments the first locking mechanism is provided towards the top of the ladder and the second locking mechanism is provided towards the bottom of the ladder.

In alternative embodiments, the first locking mechanism is provided towards the bottom of the ladder and the second locking mechanism is provided towards the top of the ladder. This may be particularly advantageous in the case where an unobstructed escape route is required from the bottom of the ladder to the top, for example, where the ladder extends beneath ground level.

In some embodiments, engagement of at least a portion of the elongate member with the locking element comprises a locking arrangement. In some embodiments the locking arrangement is provided at an end of the ladder or locking apparatus opposite to that at which the securing mechanism is provided.

In some embodiments the ladder guard is hinged to the ladder.

In some embodiments the elongate member is coupled to the ladder via at least one support element configured to permit longitudinal movement of the elongate member, such that the elongate member can be retracted out of engagement with the locking element.

In some embodiments, the ladder guard is biased towards the closed position. Accordingly, the ladder guard is biased towards the position in which access to the rungs of the ladder is restricted. In such embodiments, when the ladder guard is moved away from the closed position and released, it will automatically revert back to the closed position. This assists in ensuring that the ladder remains locked such that only authorised users can gain access to the ladder.

In some embodiments the ladder guard and/or ladder comprises a resilient member (e.g. the ladder and ladder guard may be coupled together by a spring hinge) configured to bias the ladder guard towards the closed position.

In some embodiments, the ladder apparatus comprises a safety cage enclosing the ladder. This provides additional safety for a user climbing the ladder.

In some embodiments the ladder apparatus comprises a safety cage enclosing the ladder, wherein the ladder apparatus further comprises a retention mechanism having a retention element configured for engagement with the safety cage to retain the ladder guard in an open position in which access to the rungs of the ladder is permitted.

In some embodiments the retention mechanism comprises an upper actuator and/or a lower actuator, wherein the retention element is released by actuation of either of the upper or lower actuators.

In some embodiments the retention mechanism is a latch mechanism and the retention element comprises a hook portion.

In some embodiments, the latch mechanism is arranged to be operated from both the top and bottom of the ladder to ensure that the ladder guard can be released from the open position from either the top or bottom of the ladder.

In some embodiments, the ladder apparatus comprises a latch mechanism for retaining the ladder guard in an open position in which access to the rungs of the ladder is permitted.

In some embodiments, the latch mechanism is arranged to engage the safety cage to retain the ladder guard in the open position.

In some embodiments the ladder guard comprises a curved profile. This provides the ladder guard with increased strength and rigidity. The safety cage may also comprise a curved profile. In this case the ladder guard mirrors the shape of the safety cage such that, when open, the space around the ladder is maximised such that the user is not impeded by the ladder guard when using the ladder.

In some embodiments, the ladder guard is hinged to the ladder such that the ladder guard is arranged to move from an open position to a closed position, and vice versa, by movement of the ladder guard about the hinge.

In some embodiments the ladder guard comprises a mesh material. This allows air flow through the door and so reduces strain on the ladder guard, for example in windy conditions or where the ladder is located outside.

In some embodiments, the ladder guard comprises a solid plate.

In a third aspect, a locking apparatus is provided for use with a ladder guard, the locking apparatus comprising a first locking mechanism, a second locking mechanism, and an elongate member extending between the first and second locking mechanisms, the first locking mechanism comprising:

a locking element arranged for engagement with the elongate member such that, when the locking element and elongate member are engaged, movement of the locking element relative to the elongate member is inhibited, and a release mechanism arranged to be operable between an open configuration and a closed configuration, wherein when in the open configuration, movement of the locking element relative to the elongate member is permitted, and when in the closed configuration, movement of the locking element relative to the elongate member is inhibited;

wherein:

the first locking mechanism is arranged to be operable between a locked configuration and an unlocked configuration, wherein, when in the locked configuration the release mechanism occupies its closed configuration to inhibit movement of the locking element relative to the elongate member, and when in the unlocked configuration, the release mechanism occupies its open configuration to permit movement of the locking element relative to the elongate member; and the second locking mechanism is arranged to be operable between a locked configuration and an unlocked configuration, wherein, when in the unlocked configuration, the elongate member is moveable out of engagement with the locking element to permit movement of the locking element relative to the elongate member, and when in the locked configuration, such movement of the elongate member is inhibited;

In some embodiments, when movement of the locking element relative to the elongate member is permitted, the locking element is free to move in a plane transverse to a longitudinal axis of the elongate member. In some embodiments, when movement of the locking element relative to the elongate member is permitted, the locking element is free to move in a plane perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the elongate member.

In some embodiments, the release mechanism is biased towards the closed configuration. In this way, the first locking mechanism tends towards the locked configuration. This provides a more secure locking apparatus.

In some embodiments the release mechanism is arranged to rotate or pivot about an axis in order to move from the closed position to the open position and vice versa. In this way, a simple means of moving the release mechanism between an open and closed position is provided.

In some embodiments the release mechanism is provided by the locking element. In such embodiments, the release mechanism may comprise a ramp portion for engagement with the elongate member, wherein the ramp portion is profiled such that engagement with the elongate member causes the release mechanism to be moved to the open configuration.

In some embodiments the release mechanism is provided by the elongate member. In such embodiments, the release mechanism may comprise a ramp portion for engagement with the locking element, wherein the ramp portion is profiled such that engagement with the locking element causes the release mechanism to be moved to the open configuration.

In some embodiments the locking element comprises an aperture or recess arranged to receive the elongate member. In such arrangements, the locking element and the elongate member are engaged when the elongate member extends through the aperture or recess of the locking element.

In some embodiments the release mechanism comprises a release plate comprising the aperture or recess. In some embodiments, the release plate is provided by the locking element. In some embodiments the release plate is configured for rotation about an axis which is substantially orthogonal to a longitudinal axis of the elongate member. For example, the release plate may be configured for rotation about a hinge. In this way the release mechanism may be moved from a closed position to an open position, and vice versa, by movement of the release plate about the axis or hinge.

In some embodiments, the release mechanism comprises an adjustment mechanism to adjust the alignment of the release mechanism with respect to the elongate member e.g. to adjust the distance between the release plate and a fixed portion of the first locking mechanism. This ensures effective positioning of the release mechanism to provide engagement and release of the elongate member from the locking element, for example the aperture of the release plate. In some embodiments, the adjustment mechanism comprises a plurality of bolts extending from the release plate to abut a fixed portion of the first locking mechanism, such that rotation of the bolts adjusts the distance between the release plate and the fixed portion.

In some embodiments the elongate member is arranged for longitudinal movement such that the elongate member can be retracted out of engagement with the locking element. In the case where the first and second locking mechanisms are provided at either end of a ladder, the elongate member extends substantially along the length of the ladder between the locking mechanisms, for example, the elongate member may be coupled along a side rail of the ladder.

In some embodiments, unlocking the second locking mechanism requires an access key, for example, a physical key, a key code, RFID tag or other suitable access key.

In some embodiments, the locking apparatus further comprises a latch mechanism arranged to retain the locking element at a predetermined position relative to the elongate member when the locking element and the elongate member are out of engagement.

For example, when used with a ladder and ladder guard, the latch mechanism may be arranged to retain the ladder guard in an open position in which access to the rungs of the ladder is provided. By means of the latch mechanism, the ladder guard may therefore be held in an open position while a person is climbing the ladder. This improves the safety of the ladder in ensuring that the person climbing the ladder is not impeded by movement of the ladder guard. The ladder guard can instead be held out of the way of the user.

In some embodiments, the elongate member is a rod.

In a fourth aspect, a ladder apparatus is provided comprising a ladder, a ladder guard and a locking apparatus as herein described, wherein the first locking mechanism is provided towards one end of the ladder and the second locking mechanism is provided towards the other end, and wherein, when the elongate member and the locking element are engaged, the ladder guard is held in a closed position to restrict access to the rungs of the ladder, and when the elongate member and the locking element are not engaged, the ladder guard is released for movement away from the ladder.

In some embodiments, the locking element is coupled to the ladder guard and the elongate member is coupled to the ladder. In this way, when the locking element and the elongate member are engaged, movement of the ladder guard relative to the ladder is inhibited.

In some embodiments, the first locking mechanism is provided towards the top of the ladder and the second locking mechanism is provided towards the bottom of the ladder.

In some embodiments, the ladder apparatus further comprises a latch mechanism for retaining the ladder guard in an open position in which access to the rungs of the ladder is permitted. In some embodiments, the latch mechanism is arranged to be operated from both the top and bottom of the ladder to ensure that the ladder guard can be released from the open position from either the top or bottom of the ladder.

In some embodiments, the ladder apparatus comprises a safety cage enclosing the ladder. This provides additional safety for a user climbing the ladder. In some embodiments, the latch mechanism is arranged to engage the safety cage to retain the ladder guard in the open position.

In some embodiments, the ladder guard comprises a solid plate.

In a fifth aspect a ladder apparatus comprising a ladder, a ladder guard and a locking apparatus is provided, the ladder apparatus comprising a first unlocking mechanism and a second unlocking mechanism, wherein the first unlocking mechanism is provided towards a first end of the ladder and the second unlocking mechanism is provided towards a second end of the ladder, wherein:

the locking apparatus further comprises a locking arrangement configured to secure the ladder guard to the ladder at a position towards the first end of the ladder, the first unlocking mechanism comprises an actuator provided towards the first end of the ladder, wherein actuation of the actuator enables the locking arrangement to be unlocked;

the second unlocking mechanism comprises a securing means provided towards the second end and configured for receipt of an access key, wherein the second unlocking mechanism is configured such that receipt of an access key by the securing means enables the locking arrangement to be unlocked, wherein movement of the ladder guard away from the ladder is permitted when the locking arrangement is unlocked.

It will be understood that the first locking mechanism described herein can be thought of as the first unlocking mechanism. Similarly, it will be understood that the second locking mechanism described herein can be thought of as the second unlocking mechanism. Accordingly, the terms first locking mechanism and first unlocking mechanism are interchangeable. Similarly, the terms second locking mechanism and second unlocking mechanism are interchangeable.

In some embodiments, the actuator comprises a release mechanism for unlocking the locking arrangement, e.g. a release plate. In some embodiments, the actuator comprises a push button, switch, or other suitable actuator.

In some embodiments, the locking arrangement comprises an elongate member and a locking element configured for receipt of at least a portion of the elongate member. In some embodiments, the locking element comprises an aperture or recess.

In some embodiments, the elongate member is coupled to the ladder and the locking element is coupled to the ladder guard. In some embodiments, the elongate member is coupled to the ladder guard and the locking element is coupled to the ladder.

In some embodiments, the actuator is provided by the locking element e.g. the release plate.

In some embodiments, the locking arrangement comprises any suitable locking arrangement, for example a mechanical locking system, an electronic or magnetic locking mechanism, or any other arrangement suitable for securing the ladder guard to the ladder at a position towards the first end of the ladder.

In a sixth aspect a locking apparatus for securing a ladder guard to a ladder is provided, the apparatus comprising a first unlocking mechanism and a second unlocking mechanism, wherein the first unlocking mechanism and the second unlocking mechanism are spaced apart such that the first unlocking mechanism is provided towards a first end of the apparatus and the second unlocking mechanism is provided towards a second end of the apparatus, wherein: the locking apparatus comprises a locking arrangement configured to secure a ladder guard to a ladder at a position towards the first end of the apparatus, the first unlocking mechanism comprises an actuator provided towards the first end of the apparatus, wherein actuation of the actuator enables the locking arrangement to be unlocked;

the second unlocking mechanism comprises a securing means provided towards the second end of the apparatus and configured for receipt of an access key, wherein the second unlocking mechanism is configured such that receipt of an access key by the securing means enables the locking arrangement to be unlocked.

In some embodiments, the locking arrangement comprises an elongate member extending between the first and second unlocking mechanisms.

In some embodiments, the locking arrangement comprises any suitable locking arrangement, for example a mechanical locking system, an electronic or magnetic locking mechanism, or any other suitable arrangement suitable.

It will be understood that optional features described herein may apply to any of the above aspects.

DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Embodiments of the invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

Figure la illustrates a side view of a ladder apparatus comprises a locking apparatus according to the invention;

Figure lb illustrates a front view of the ladder apparatus of Figure la,

Figure lc illustrates a perspective view of the ladder apparatus of Figures la and lb;

Figure 2 illustrates a perspective view of a first locking mechanism of the embodiment of figures la-c;

Figure 3 illustrates a perspective view of a second locking mechanism of the embodiment of figures la-c;

Figure 4 illustrates a lower portion of a latching mechanism of the ladder apparatus of the embodiment of figures la-c; and

Figure 5 illustrates an upper portion of a latching mechanism of the ladder apparatus of the embodiment of figures la-c.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

With reference to Figures la-c, a ladder apparatus 2 or system is provided comprising a ladder 4, a ladder guard 6 and a locking apparatus 8 (that will be described in further detail below). The ladder 4 is provided to enable a person to gain access to an upper platform 10 from the ground. The upper platform 10 may, for example, provide access to a roof void.

The ladder 4 is of a standard construction having two side rails and rungs extending therebetween. The ladder system 2 also has a safety cage 12 to provide additional safety when climbing up or down the ladder 4.

The ladder guard 6 is a solid plate which is substantially rectangular in shape and is approximately the same width as the ladder 4. The ladder guard 6 is hinged to one side rail of the ladder 4 such that it can pivot about the hinge from a closed position to an open position.

The hinge is a spring hinge configured such that the ladder guard 6 is resiliently biased towards the closed position. In the closed position the ladder guard 6 lies across the rungs of the ladder 4, from one side rail of the ladder 4 to the other, thereby preventing access to the rungs of the ladder 4. In the open position, the ladder guard 6 is spaced apart from the rungs of the ladder 4, such that a user may access the rungs of the ladder 4. The open and closed positions of the ladder guard 6 are shown in Figure lc. It will be understood that any suitable resilient element(s) may be used to bias the ladder guard 6 towards the closed position.

As can also be seen from Figure lc, the ladder guard 6 has a curved profde to correspond to the shape of the curved safety cage 12, such that the ladder guard 6 lies substantially flush with the safety cage 12 when in the open position.

The ladder guard 6 is arranged to extend from a location near the foot of the ladder 4 to a location near the top of the ladder 4. This ensures that the ladder 4 cannot be used when the ladder guard 6 is in the closed position.

The locking apparatus 8 includes a first locking mechanism 14 located near the top of the ladder 4, and a second locking mechanism 16 located near the foot of the ladder 4. Conversely, the first and second locking mechanisms can be thought of as unlocking mechanisms. An elongate member 18, e.g. an elongate bar, bolt or rod, extends between the first and second locking mechanisms 14, 16. A latching mechanism 20 is also provided and will be described in detail below. As will be apparent from the description below, the locking apparatus may be retrofitted to an existing ladder and ladder guard arrangement requiring substantially no modification or limited modification of the ladder or ladder guard.

The first locking mechanism 14 is coupled to the ladder guard 6 and the second locking mechanism 16 is coupled to the ladder 4. In an alternative embodiment, the first locking mechanism is coupled to the ladder 4 and the second locking mechanism 16 is coupled to the ladder guard 6.

The elongate bar 18 extends along the side rail of the ladder, at the opposite side to which the ladder guard 6 is hinged, and is supported in position by a series of support elements e.g. guide elements or support plates, provided along a side rail of the ladder 4 (not shown). The support elements are arranged to permit longitudinal movement of the elongate bar 18 in a direction substantially along the length of a side rail of the ladder 4, i.e. along the length of the elongate bar 18, whilst supporting the elongate bar 18 along the length of the ladder. Supporting the elongate bar 18 in this way improves the positioning of the elongate bar with respect to the locking element (which will be described below) to ensure proper engagement.

The first locking mechanism 14 comprises a locking element which is coupled to the ladder guard 6 and configured to engage the elongate bar 18. Since the elongate bar 18 is coupled to the ladder 4, engagement of the locking element with the elongate bar 18 prevents the ladder guard 6 being moved away from the ladder. In the embodiment illustrated in Figure 2, the locking element acts as a release mechanism and comprises a release plate 22 which is coupled to the ladder guard 6 by a fixing plate 26, the fixing plate 26 being attached directly to the ladder guard 6.

The release plate 22 has an aperture 24 arranged to receive the elongate bar 18 such that the elongate bar 18 can extend, at least partially, through the aperture 24. The end 18a of the elongate bar 18 is tapered to facilitate engagement of the bar with the aperture 24 of the release plate 22. It will be understood that, when the elongate bar 18 extends through the aperture 24, the elongate bar 18 and the aperture 24 are engaged.

When the elongate bar 18 and the aperture 24 are engaged, movement of the ladder guard 6 relative to the ladder 4, i.e. from the closed position to the open position, is not permitted since the release plate 22 having the aperture 24 is coupled to the ladder guard 6 and the elongate bar 18 is coupled ladder. In this way, the elongate bar 28 and the release plate 22 provide a locking arrangement. As can be seen in figures la-c, this locking arrangement is configured to secure the ladder guard 6 to the ladder 4 at a position towards the top of the ladder 4.

The release plate 22 is coupled to the fixing plate 26 by a hinge 28. The axis of the hinge 28 is provided such that it is substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the elongate bar 18. As will be apparent from Figure 2, as the release plate 22 moves about the hinge 28, the release plate 22 moves away from and towards the elongate bar 18, thereby moving the aperture 24 out of and into engagement with the elongate bar 18. In other words, the release plate 22 is displaced between an open configuration in which the release plate 22 is disengaged from the elongate bar 18, and a closed configuration in which the release plate 22 is positioned for engagement with the elongate bar 18. As will be apparent, in the embodiment illustrated in Figure 2, the release plate 22 is moved into its open configuration by moving the release plate 22 away from the elongate bar 18, in other words the release plate 22 is lifted out of engagement with the elongate bar 18. In this way no downward force is required to release the locking arrangement. It will be appreciated that, especially in an emergency, requiring a user to apply a downward force at the top of a ladder could be potentially hazardous.

As will be apparent, the first locking mechanism is operable between a locked configuration in which the release plate 22 occupies its closed position and engages the elongate bar 18, and an unlocked configuration in which the release plate 22 occupies its open configuration and is therefore out of engagement with the elongate bar 18.

The hinge 28 of the first locking mechanism is a spring hinge which is biased such that the release plate 22 is biased towards the elongate bar 18, in other words biased towards the aperture 24 being in engagement with the elongate bar 18. Put another way, the release plate 22 is biased towards its closed position. It will be appreciated that any suitable biasing means may be used.

The release plate 22 of the first locking mechanism 14 includes a ramp portion, e.g. a guide tongue 30, which is angled to extend away from the elongate rod 18. The first locking mechanism 14 also includes a guide plate 32 having a recess 34, the recess 34 being arranged to receive the elongate bar 18 and provided in alignment with the aperture 24 of the release plate 22.

In relation to the elongate bar 18, the release plate 22 is provided closer to the tapered end 18a of the elongate bar 18 than the guide plate 32. A pair of bolts 36 are provided extending through the release plate 22 to abut the guide plate 32 and thereby provide an adjustment mechanism. Rotation of the bolts 36 adjusts the distance between the guide plate 32 and the release plate 22.

The second locking mechanism 16 comprises a securing mechanism arranged to engage the elongate bar 18 such that, when the securing mechanism engages the elongate bar 18, movement of the elongate bar 18 out of engagement with the locking element is prevented.

The securing mechanism may be any suitable means for restricting movement of the elongate bar 18, for example, a fastening or bolt configured to engage or intersect at least a portion of the elongate bar 18, a clamp, or an electronic or magnetic locking mechanism configured to secure the elongate bar 18 against movement. In the embodiment of Figure 3, the securing mechanism comprises the shackle of a padlock 46 which engages the elongate bar 18 as will now be described.

Elongate bar 18 is coupled to the ladder via a fixing plate 38 (e.g. a support element) which is attached to the side rail of the ladder 4 and which has an aperture 40 through which the elongate bar 18 extends. The end of the elongate bar 18 provided nearest to the foot of the ladder 4 is bent to provide a handle 50 which a person may use to move the elongate bar 18.Towards the handle end of the elongate bar 18, a tongue 42 is provided extending from the elongate bar 18, such that the tongue 42 can extend through the aperture 40 of the fixing plate 38.

The tongue 42 has an aperture 44 through which the shackle of a padlock 46 (or other suitable locking means) can be passed. The tongue 42 of the elongate bar 18 also comprises a peg 48 extending from the tongue 42 and spaced apart from the aperture 44, such that the aperture 44 and the peg 48 can be positioned on either sides of the fixing plate 38. In this way, when the padlock 46 is in place, movement of the elongate bar 18 is prevented, hence, it is not possible to move the elongate bar 18 relative to the aperture 24 of the release plate 22 provided by the first locking mechanism.

The securing mechanism e.g. the padlock 46, can occupy an open configuration in which the securing mechanism is disengaged from the elongate bar 18. In this configuration, the elongate bar 18 is released for longitudinal movement such that it may be retracted out of engagement with the locking element. When, for example, the padlock 46 is fitted to the elongate bar 18, the securing mechanism will be understood to occupy a closed configuration in which longitudinal movement of the elongate bar is restricted to prevent the elongate bar 18 being retracted from the locking element.

It will be understood from the foregoing that the second locking mechanism can occupy a locked and an unlocked configuration. In the locked configuration, the securing mechanism is in its closed configuration, hence retraction of the elongate bar 18 from the locking element is prevented. In the unlocked configuration, the securing mechanism is in its open configuration and the elongate bar 18 is retracted from the locking element such that the elongate bar 18 and the locking element are not engaged. Thereby, movement of the ladder guard 6 away from the ladder 4 is permitted.

It will be appreciated that the elongate member and locking element are only engaged when both the first and second locking mechanisms are in their locked configurations. In this event, movement of the ladder guard 6 away from the ladder 4 is prevented. Put another way, the elongate member and the locking element are not engaged when the first locking mechanism is unlocked (i.e. the release plate is open) and/or when the second locking mechanism is unlocked (i.e. the elongate bar is retracted). Therefore, when one or both of the first and second locking mechanisms is unlocked, the ladder guard 6 can be moved away from the ladder 4.

It will also be understood from the foregoing that operation of the first locking mechanism is independent of the second locking mechanism and vice versa.

In the embodiment of Figures la-c, the securing mechanism is provided towards the bottom of the ladder 4 and the locking arrangement i.e. the point at which the elongate member and the locking element engage, is provided towards the top of the ladder i.e. at the opposite end of the ladder. In other words, the securing mechanism is provided at the opposite end of the ladder 4 to the point at which the ladder guard 6 is secured to the ladder 4 by the locking arrangement. In this way, the locking arrangement is provided spaced apart from the secure access point of the ladder e.g. the securing mechanism at the foot of the ladder 4. Consequently, the locking arrangement does not need to be housed in a secure housing to prevent manipulation of the locking arrangement, e.g. embedded in the ladder guard 6 or some other component of the ladder apparatus to guard against unauthorised access of the ladder 4 by manipulation of the locking arrangement. This is particularly beneficial where the locking apparatus is retrofitted to an existing ladder and ladder guard.

With reference to Figure 5, the locking apparatus 8 comprises a retention mechanism, e.g. a latch mechanism 20 fixed to the ladder guard 6 at the upper end of the ladder 4. The retention mechanism comprises a retention element e.g. a hook 52. The hook 52 is coupled to a latch plate 54 at a pivot point 56. The latch plate 54 is fixed directly to the ladder guard 6. A latch actuator bar 58, or upper actuator, is coupled to the hook 52 so that the hook 52 may be rotated about the pivot point 56 via movement of the latch actuator bar 58.

The latch plate 54 houses a pair of pulleys 60 about which an actuator cord 62 is provided. The actuator cord 62 is coupled to the latch actuator bar 58 at one end, and extends the length of the ladder guard 6, ending in a loop handle 64, or lower actuator, provided near the foot of the ladder 4, as shown in Figure 4. The actuator cord 62 extends the length of the ladder guard 6 through a channel 66 provided in the ladder guard 6. This prevents the actuator cord 62 becoming tangled.

The hook 52 is arranged to hook over a portion of the safety cage 12, to retain the ladder guard 6 in an open position. By pulling on the actuator cord 62 or by moving the latch actuator bar 58, the hook is moved to release it from the safety cage 12, thereby permitting movement of the ladder guard 6.

In use the ladder guard 6 can be locked in a closed position to prevent a person using the ladder 4. In this configuration, the padlock 46 provided at the second locking mechanism 16, i.e. at the foot of the ladder, engages the elongate bar 18 and inhibit longitudinal movement of the elongate bar 18. In this locked position, the elongate bar 18 extends along the side rail of the ladder 4 and through the aperture 24 of the release plate 22. The release plate 22 is biased towards its closed position and hence towards the elongate bar 18, thereby retaining the elongate bar 18 and aperture 24 in engagement. Since the elongate bar 18 is coupled to the ladder and the release plate 22 is coupled to the ladder guard 6, engagement of the elongate bar 18 and the aperture 24 prevents the ladder guard 6 being moved and so prevents access to the ladder 4. In this locked position, i.e. when both the first and second locking mechanisms are in the locked configuration, access to the platform 10 at the top of the ladder 4 is therefore restricted.

For a person at the foot of the ladder 4 wanting to gain access to the upper platform 10, the ladder guard 6 must be unlocked so that it can be moved to the open position. To do this the person must unlock the padlock 46 and remove it from the tongue 42 of the elongate bar 18 to permit movement of the elongate bar 18. Therefore, only those with a key to the padlock 46 are able to release the elongate bar 18 for movement. In alternative embodiments, other suitable securing means as described above may be used. Accordingly, the access key required to open the securing mechanism may be any suitable key, for example, a physical key, a key code, an electronic key, an RFID fob, biometric information, or any suitable access key.

Using the handle 50, the user then pulls the elongate bar 18 in the direction towards the foot of the ladder 4. In doing so, the tapered end 18a of the elongate bar 18 is retracted from the aperture 24 of the release plate 22 such that it no longer extends through the aperture 24.

Since the elongate bar 18 and the aperture 24 are no longer engaged, the ladder guard 6 is released and can be moved to the open position, thereby permitting access to the ladder 4.

The ladder guard 6 is curved to the profile of the safety cage 12 so that the space available to the user to climb the ladder 4 is maximised. Once the ladder guard 6 is in the open position against the safety cage 12, the hook 52 of the latching mechanism 20 can be hooked over the safety cage 12 (or other suitable support structure). This can either be achieved by the action of the ladder guard 6 opening, the force of which sliding the hook 52 over the safety cage 12 and into position. Alternatively, the user may pull on the loop handle 64 of the actuator cord 62 in order to move the hook 52 over the safety cage 12 and into position.

Before climbing the ladder 4, the user pushes the elongate bar 18 back towards the top of the ladder 4 into its original position. The padlock 46 is then reattached through the tongue 42 so that further longitudinal movement of the elongate bar 18 is prevented. The user then climbs the ladder 4 as normal.

It will therefore be understood, that access to the ladder 4 from the foot of the ladder is only possible if the user has an access key. It will also be appreciated that, since the second locking mechanism is provided adjacent the foot of the ladder, a user is not required to begin climbing the ladder before unlocking the ladder guard.

As the ladder guard 6 is opened, the locking element coupled to the ladder guard 6 moves relative to the elongate bar 18 i.e. away from the elongate bar. In other words, the locking element moves away from the elongate bar in a plane transverse to the longitudinal axis of the elongate bar e.g. a plane substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the elongate bar.

On reaching the upper platform 10 the user can step off the ladder 4 and use the latch actuator bar 58 to move the hook 52 out of engagement with the safety cage 12, thereby releasing the ladder guard 6 for movement. Since the ladder guard 6 is biased towards the closed position, the ladder guard 6 swings back towards the ladder 4. In doing so, the first locking mechanism 14 moves towards the elongate bar 18. As the first locking mechanism 14 approaches the elongate bar 18, the guide tongue 30 rides over the tapered end 18a of the elongate bar 18, raising the release plate 22 by rotation about the hinge 28 to the open configuration. As the ladder guard 6 continues to move towards the ladder 4, the aperture 24 of the release plate 22 is positioned over the tapered end 18a of the elongate bar 18 and the release plate 22 closes over the elongate bar 18. The release plate 22 is thereby returned to its original position in which the elongate bar 18 extends through the aperture 24. The recess 34 of the guide plate 32 locates the elongate bar 18 in alignment with the aperture 24. In this way, the ladder guard is returned to the locked (i.e. both the first and second locking mechanisms are locked) and closed position, wherein access to the ladder 4 is prevented. In this way, the locking element can be thought of as being self-locking. By self-locking it will be understood that no additional action or key is required by the user to close the locking element.

It will be appreciated that the relative positions of the elongate rod 18 and the release plate 22 are important to the operation of the locking system 8 in the embodiment illustrated in Figure 2. There must be sufficient clearance to enable the elongate bar 18 to be retracted from the aperture 24 of the release plate 22, but also the elongate bar 18 must extend a sufficient distance through the aperture 24 when locked to ensure that the ladder guard 6 is securely held in the closed position. The relative positioning of the elongate rod 18 and the release plate 22 is also important to ensure that the guide tongue 30 of the release plate 22 can ride over the elongate bar 18 when the ladder guard 6 is closed. If the relative distance is too great, the guide tongue 30 will not be able to ride over the tapered end 18a of the elongate bar 18. If the relative distance is too small, the elongate bar 18 will not extend sufficiently through the aperture 24. The bolts 36 can therefore be rotated to adjust the distance between the guide plate 32 and the release plate 22 to ensure proper functioning of the locking apparatus 8.

To descend the ladder 4, the ladder guard 6 can be moved to the open position without the need for a key. The user can simply lift the release plate 22 of the first locking mechanism, for example using the guide tongue 30. The aperture 24 is therefore lifted out of engagement with the elongate bar 18, releasing the ladder guard 6 for movement away from the ladder 4. Once released, the ladder guard 6 can be moved to its open position and held there by the latch mechanism 20 as previously described.

It will be appreciated that, since the first locking mechanism is provided near the top of the ladder, a user is not required to being climbing down the ladder before unlocking the ladder guard.

On reaching the bottom of the ladder 4, the user can pull the loop handle 64 of the actuator cord 62 in order to release the hook 52 from the safety cage 12. As described above, as the ladder guard 6 moves into the closed position, the guide tongue 30 of the first locking mechanism 14 rides over the elongate bar 18, thereby lifting the aperture 24 over the elongate bar 18 and into engagement. The padlock 46 is already in place at the second locking mechanism 16 and so no further action is required to lock the ladder guard 6 in the closed position.

As will be understood, access to the ladder 4 from the ground is restricted to only those people who are able to unlock the second locking mechanism 16, i.e. those who have a key to the securing mechanism e.g. padlock 46. Therefore access to a roof void at the top of the ladder 4 is restricted. However, access to the ladder 4 from the top, in other words by a person trying to leave the roof void is not restricted. No key or other equipment is required in order for a person to gain access to the ladder 4 from the top. A person can simply lift the release plate 22 to release the ladder guard 6 for movement. This provides an unobstructed route by which a person can leave the roof void, for example in the case of a fire. In the case where access to the roof void may be gained via any one of a plurality of ladders, it is irrelevant how the person gained access to the roof void, for example via the ladder they wish to use to exit or by another ladder. Hence, keys to gain access to all ladders which may be used are not required in order to ensure that exit from the roof void is not obstructed. Further, keys are not required to ensure ladder guards are locked following descent of a ladder since the second locking mechanism is already returned to the locked configuration before the user climbs the ladder to access the roof void. Accordingly, a safe and secure locking system is provided to restrict access to areas accessible by a ladder, e.g. a roof void.

Operation of the locking system also has the advantage that it does not compromise a user's ability to maintain three points of contact when climbing up or down the ladder.

In an alternative embodiment, the locking arrangement is provided by an electromagnetic lock positioned towards the top of the ladder, or at least spaced apart from the second unlocking mechanism. The electromagnetic lock includes a first component coupled to the ladder and a second component coupled to the ladder guard. The first component comprises an electromagnet and the second component comprises an armature plate such that, when the electromagnetic lock is activated, the first and second components are held together by magnetic force. In this way, the ladder guard is prevented from moving away from the ladder.

The electromagnetic lock is positioned towards the top of the ladder such that the ladder guard is secured to the ladder at a position towards the top of the ladder, when the electromagnetic lock is activated.

It will be understood that the locking arrangement is locked when the electromagnetic lock is activated i.e. when the first and second components are held together. Similarly, the locking arrangement is unlocked when the electromagnetic lock is deactivate i.e. when the first and second components are not held together.

The embodiment includes a first unlocking mechanism provided towards the top of the ladder and a second unlocking mechanism provided towards the bottom of the ladder.

The first unlocking mechanism includes an actuator in the form of a push button connected to the locking arrangement such that, when a user depresses the push button, the electromagnetic lock is deactivated. Hence the locking arrangement is unlocked and the ladder guard can be moved away from the ladder.

The second unlocking mechanism is provided towards the foot of the ladder, i.e. at the opposite end of the ladder to the locking arrangement. The second unlocking mechanism includes a securing means in the form of an electronic key pad. The key pad is coupled to the electromagnetic lock such that, when the correct access key i.e. code is input into the key pad, the electromagnetic lock is deactivated. In alternative embodiments, the securing means may be an RFID detector, for example.

When the correct access key, i.e. code, is input into the key pad the first and second components are released from each other, accordingly the ladder guard can be moved away from the ladder.

In this way, access is restricted at the bottom of the ladder to individuals in possession of the access key, but is not restricted at the top of the ladder.

In addition, by positioning the locking apparatus at the opposite end of the ladder to the key pad, tampering with the locking apparatus in an attempt to obtain unauthorised access to the ladder is prevented.

Although the invention has been described above with reference to one or more embodiments, it will be appreciated that various changes or modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims. For example, the locking element may be provided on the ladder and the elongate bar provided on the ladder guard.

As described above, operation of the first locking mechanism is independent of the second locking mechanism, accordingly any suitable locking means can be used to provide the first locking means provided that it is capable of engaging the elongate bar as described above. For example, the locking element may be retained in the closed position by means of a magnetic or electronic lock which is configured to be deactivated by manipulation of a release mechanism, such that when the lock is deactivated, the locking element occupies the open configuration. Such a release mechanism may be a push-button, switch or other suitable actuator.

Similarly, operation of the second locking mechanism is independent of the first locking mechanism, accordingly any suitable locking means can be used to provide the second locking means provided that it is capable of restricting movement of the elongate bar as described above. For example, a magnetic or electronic lock which is configured to secure the elongate member against movement may be used. Such a lock being deactivated using an access key.

In some embodiments, the elongate bar moves into and out of engagement with the locking element by rotational movement of the elongate bar. In such embodiments, the elongate bar may be provided with a portion which is offset from the longitudinal axis of the elongate bar, such that when the elongate bar is rotated, the offset portion moves in an arc about the longitudinal axis.

Claims

1. A ladder system comprising a ladder, a ladder guard, and a locking apparatus, the locking apparatus comprising a first unlocking mechanism and a second unlocking mechanism, wherein the first unlocking mechanism and the second unlocking mechanism are spaced apart such that the first unlocking mechanism is provided towards a first end of the ladder and the second unlocking mechanism is provided towards a second end of the ladder, wherein:

the locking apparatus comprises a locking arrangement configured to secure the ladder guard to the ladder at a position towards the first end of the ladder, the first unlocking mechanism comprises an actuator provided towards the first end of the ladder, wherein actuation of the actuator enables the locking arrangement to be unlocked;

the second unlocking mechanism comprises a securing means provided towards the second end of the ladder and configured for receipt of an access key, wherein the second unlocking mechanism is configured such that receipt of an access key by the securing means enables the locking arrangement to be unlocked, wherein movement of the ladder guard away from the ladder is permitted when the locking arrangement is unlocked.

2. A ladder system according to claim 1, wherein operation of the first unlocking mechanism is independent of the second unlocking mechanism and vice versa.

3. A ladder system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the actuator comprises a release mechanism, e.g. a release plate, push button or switch.

4. A ladder system according to any preceding claim, wherein the access key comprises a physical key, a key code or an RFID fob.

5. A ladder system according to any preceding claim, wherein the locking arrangement comprises an elongate member and a locking element configured for receipt of at least a portion of the elongate member.

6. A ladder system according to claim 5, wherein the locking element is provided by the actuator.

7. A ladder system according to claim 5 or 6, wherein the locking element is displaceable between a closed configuration in which the locking element is configured for engagement with the elongate member, and an open configuration in which the locking element is disengaged from the elongate member.

8. A ladder system according to claim 7, wherein the locking element is arranged to rotate or pivot about an axis in order to disengage the elongate member and move the locking element from the closed position to the open position and vice versa.

9. A ladder system according to claim 7 or 8, wherein the locking element comprises a resilient element configured to bias the locking element towards its closed configuration.

10. A ladder system according to any of claims 5 to 9, wherein the locking element comprises a release plate having an aperture or recess.

11. A ladder system according to any of claims 5 to 10, wherein the locking arrangement comprises an adjustment mechanism configured to adjust the alignment of the locking element with respect to the elongate member.

12. A ladder system according to any of claims 5 to 11, wherein the elongate member extends between the first unlocking mechanism and the second unlocking mechanism.

13. A ladder system according to any of claims 5 to 12, wherein the securing means comprises a fastening (e.g. a bolt) configured to engage a portion of the elongate member to restrict movement thereof.

14. A ladder system according to any of claims 5 to 13, wherein the elongate member is coupled to the ladder and the locking element is coupled to the ladder guard.

15. A ladder system according to any of claims 5 to 13, wherein the elongate member is coupled to the ladder guard and the locking element is coupled to the ladder.

16. A ladder system according to claim 14, wherein the elongate member is retained in position between the first and second unlocking mechanisms by at least one support element coupled to the ladder and configured to permit longitudinal movement of the elongate member, such that the elongate member can be retracted out of engagement with the locking element.

17. A ladder system of any preceding claim, further comprising a safety cage enclosing the ladder, and wherein the ladder apparatus further comprises a retention mechanism having a retention element configured for engagement with the safety cage to retain the ladder guard in an open position in which access to the rungs of the ladder is permitted.

18. A ladder system according to claim 17, wherein the latch mechanism comprises an upper actuator and/or a lower actuator, wherein the retention element is released by actuation of either of the upper or lower actuators.

19. A ladder system according to any of claims 1 to 4, wherein the locking arrangement comprises an electronic or magnetic locking mechanism.