AU2008229900A1

AU2008229900A1 - Ladder stabiliser

Info

Publication number: AU2008229900A1
Application number: AU2008229900A
Authority: AU
Inventors: Barrie Weatherall
Original assignee: Rojak Design Ltd
Current assignee: Rojak Design Ltd
Priority date: 2007-10-12
Filing date: 2008-10-13
Publication date: 2009-04-30
Also published as: GB2457770A; GB0818762D0

Description

AUSTRALIA Patents Act COMPLETE SPECIFICATION (ORIGINAL) Class Int. Class Application Number: Lodged: Complete Specification Lodged: Accepted: Published: Priority Related Art: Name of Applicant: Rojak Design Ltd Actual Inventor(s): Barrie Weatherall Address for Service and Correspondence: PHILLIPS ORMONDE & FITZPATRICK Patent and Trade Mark Attorneys 367 Collins Street Melbourne 3000 AUSTRALIA Invention Title: LADDER STABILISER Our Ref: 840399 POF Code: 468180/487484 The following statement is a full description of this invention, including the best method of performing it known to applicant(s): -1- PARJBA770A LADDER STABILISER This invention relates to a ladder stabiliser, particularly to a releasably securable ladder stabiliser, and to a method of stabilising a ladder. 5 Ladders are used in a wide range of applications both domestically and commercially and in many different environments as regards the ground upon which the base of the ladder is placed and the wall against which the top of the ladder rests. The ground may for example be uneven or inclined, slippery or loose for example due to ice, gravel, grass, moss, building site debris and the like, all of which may present a hazard unless due care is taken by the 10 user. Various stabilising devices have been developed to reduce the risk of such hazards arising by providing improved stability for the feet of the ladder and to enable ladders to be employed safely more widely. The wall against which the ladder rests may also present hazards. For example, the wall may be uneven, not precisely vertical or there may be obstructions such as windows and 15 drain pipes, gutters and the like. In addition, as a practical matter, the user may lean laterally of the ladder and thereby impart greater force to one side or the other of the ladder and cause the top of the ladder to move. This is particularly dangerous as once the ladder becomes unstable together with the weight of the user exacerbating the instability, serious accidents may occur. Where a ladder is used towards the end of a wall, lateral slippage 20 may cause the ladder to move beyond the end of the wall and lose support altogether with potentially major consequences. In working towards the top of a ladder for example painting or repairing work on. guttering or the like, there may be practical difficulties for the worker of being too close to the wall against which the ladder leans, The worker may find working uncomfortable and not 25 have sufficient room to carry out the work safely or without readjusting their position which may increase the risk of accidents. Ladder stiles often have rubber stops to provide improved grip between the ladder and the wall against which it is leant but this may provide only limited improvement in stability. Furthermore, ladders may also be used to gain access to roof areas or to scaffolding where the stiles of the ladder rather than the top of the ladder is in contact 30 with the structure thereby rendering the rubber stops redundant in such circumstances. Ladders must also comply with legislation regarding working at height in certain countries for example Work At Height Regulations (WAHR) in the UK based in a European Directive and employers may have a duty of care to employees to ensure equipment used in the course of employment is safe and meets all appropriate regulations. 35 Various attempts have been made to provide improved ladder stability and a stabilising device, generally known as a "stand-off", is known. A stand-off attaches to a ladder and presents a surface to the wall such that the ladder itself does not contact the wall. 1A PARJBA770A A stand-off typically comprises a framework and retention brackets or hooks for attachment to the rungs of the ladder and means for securing the stand-off to the ladder. Once assembled, the framework projects in front of the ladder and presents a surface for abutment to the wall. Stand-offs further comprising wheels attached to the frame such that the wheels 5 contact the wall are also known and may include a "V" shaped notch in the frame to allow the stand-off to be used in the corners of walls. However, where such standoffs are used against corners of walls, typically the " shaped notch rests against the corner of the wall but the wheels do not contact the walls. The use of wheels made of rubber and which are deformable into a "D" shape so as 10 to present a flat rather than curved surface of the wheel are also known. A need still exists for further improvement in ladder safety and particularly in stabilising the top end of the ladder during use, for example against a wall and for effecting egress on to a surface in the locality at the top of the ladder such as a flat roof and for positioning the ladder such that the worker has sufficient spacing from the wall to work 15 comfortably and safely. We have now found that a ladder stabiliser having two or more rotatable balls which may be mounted in a fixed manner or on two or more removable attachments which are mountable in two or more ways for contact with a surface against which the ladder is to be used provides significant improvements in ladder safety, ease and flexibility of use and 20 suitability for safe use in a range of different circumstances. According to a first aspect of the invention, there is provided a ladder stabiliser for use with a ladder positioned against a surface, for example a wall, the ladder stabiliser comprising a body, means for releasably securing the body to the ladder and two or more detachable abutments connectable to the body, each abutment having a first and second 25 contact surface and being connectable to the body to provide two or more configurations for use. The two or more detachable abutments, the abutments may be arranged in at least two configurations. Preferably, in a first configuration the abutments each present a first contact surface for abutting the wall outside the stiles of the ladder such that the distance 30 between the two first contact surfaces is greater than the width of the ladder and wherein the ladder is spaced away from the wall. Suitably, in a second configuration the abutments each present a second contact surface for abutting adjoining walls at a corner or for engaging a generally horizontal surface. The invention also provides for a kit of parts for assembly into a ladder stabiliser 35 comprising : i) a stabiliser body comprising means for releasably securing the body to a ladder; and 2 PARJBA770A ii) two or more detachable abutments connectable to the body, each abutment having a first and second contact surface and being connectable to the body to provide two or more configurations for use. The ladder stabiliser of the invention provides flexibility of use in allowing the user to 5 select a preferred configuration to provide enhanced stability in a variety of locations for example against a comer of a wall, against a flat roof or to provide a safe and convenient working position through being spaced away from the wall. Suitably, the abutments are each locatable in at least two positions on the ladder stabiliser so as to provide at least two configurations in which the ladder stabiliser may be 10 used. The abutments are securably detachable from the body of the ladder stabiliser. Each abutment suitably comprises a connecting part for connection to a complementary connecting part on the body of the ladder stabiliser, an extended spur having a first contact surface for use in a first configuration, and a second contact surface for use in a second configuration. 15 In the first configuration the at least two extended spurs are arranged such that the ladder stabiliser presents at least two first contact surfaces from the at least two abutments for engaging with a surface, for example a wall. The first contact surfaces suitably are located on or near the end of spurs which act to space the ladder away from the wall against which it is leant or may be engaged with an inclined or flat surface, for example a flat roof or 20 scaffolding level and reduce the risk of lateral movement of the ladder in use.. Preferably, in the first configuration, the abutments are mounted such that they extend in a plane parallel to the plane of the ladder and so, in use, provide an effective increase in the width at which the ladder, via the stabiliser. engages a surface thereby providing enhanced stability. Suitably, the abutments are connectable to the body such that abutment projects 25 laterally of the ladder and the extended spur projects in a direction generally perpendicular to the plane of the ladder the length of the spur protruding from the body of the ladder stabiliser may be adjusted. Suitably, the abutments are connectable to the body in a plurality of positions such that the distance between the abutment surfaces in a first configuration, may be increased or 30 decreased as appropriate. Widening the gap between the abutment surfaces will provide enhance the stability of the top of the ladder by ensuring the weight of the user is located between the abutment surfaces. In a preferred embodiment, in this configuration, the abutment surfaces are spaced at least 0.3, more preferably at least 0.5 and especially at least 1 metre apart. Suitably, the abutment surfaces are not spaced not more than 2 metres, 35 preferably not more than 1.5 m apart in use. The first contact surface is suitably a friction surface and suitably is a stop, for example a rubber stop. In a preferred embodiment, the first contact surface comprises a 3 PARJBA770A pivotally mounted stop, for example a disc. The pivotal arrangement suitably allow the first contact surface to engage with an uneven surface and allows the surface on each of the abutments to move independently of each other and so engage snugly with an uneven surface. 5 In the second configuration, the ladder stabiliser is spaced away from the wall affording the user comfortable access to the work for example when drilling or painting and allowing the user to be held away from the wall, for example to avoid leaning the ladder against a gutter whilst being able to use implements at arms length. The extended spur acts to space the ladder away from the wall to provide a more convenient working position. 10 Preferably, in a second configuration, the abutments are arranged such that the ladder stabiliser presents the two contact surfaces for engaging with a wall or surface wherein each contact surface is preferably spaced away from the plane of the ladder such that, in use, the abutments present two contact surfaces suitable for engaging adjoining walls such that the stabiliser allows the ladder to be mounted safely against the corner of two 15 adjoining walls or to present downwardly facing abutment surfaces for engaging with a generally flat surface, for example a flat roof or scaffolding planks. The second contact surface on each of abutments suitably may comprise a deformable wheel but preferably comprises a rotatable ball mounted on the abutment such that, in use in a second configuration, the deformable wheels or rotatable balls present a 20 contact surface for abutting the wall, for example adjoining walls. In the second configuration, the abutments are .suitably mounted in a direction perpendicular to the plane of the ladder so as to increase the distance between the ladder and wall, in use. The body suitably comprises complementary connecting parts for connection with the 25 at least two abutments in a first configuration and complementary connecting parts for connection with the at least two abutments in a second configuration, Preferably the connecting parts of the abutments and the body are manually connectable, for example a push-fit arrangement, and provide a rigid connection between the abutments and the body. The connection is suitably manually releasable and comprises locking means. 30 In an especially preferred embodiment the connecting parts comprise a tubular socket having holes spaced along its length and a member which is slideably insertable in the socket and which, for locking means, has a retractable, sprung notch such that on insertion of the member in the tubular socket, the notch may spring through any one of the holes thereby securing the connecting parts together. The parts may be released by 35 manually depressing the notch and removing the member, The body is suitably constructed of tubular material providing hollow ends in which the abutments may be snugly fixed and retained in a first configuration or a second configuration. 4 PARJBA770A The abutment may comprise the socket and the body may comprise the sliding member but preferably, the body comprises two pairs of sockets , a first pair for use in a first configuration and a second pair for use in a second configuration, and the abutments each comprise a slideably insertable member having locking means. Advantageously, 5 construction is simplified by requiring only one pair of locking means on the abutments rather than two pairs on the connecting parts on the body. The rotatable balls suitably provide a curved contact surface rather than a planar surface as is the case with known stabilisers or stand-offs. Advantageously, this allows the stabiliser to be used on rough or uneven walls as well as smooth walls and also permits each 10 side of the ladder to abut surfaces which are in different planes such as where there is a change in direction of the wall and the ladder is to be employed with the rails straddling the change in direction, for example a comer of adjoining walls. In this case, the tangent at the point of contact for each wall is different yet the ladder retains stability due to the use of rotatable balls to provide an abutment surface. 15 The balls are suitably mounted so they are rotatable about an axis which is preferably horizontal in use whereby the balls may roll up and down a vertical surface but not to any material degree laterally across the surface. Preferably, each ball is mounted on the body or the abutment by means of an axle which extends from the body in a direction generally parallel to the plane of the ladder. Desirably the at least two rotatable balls are mounted 20 facing each other so as to present generally facing abutment surfaces so allowing use on corners of walls. Where the contact surface comprises two or more rotatable balls, the stabiliser suitably comprises four rotatable balls, mounted in pairs. Preferably two supports extend from the body, in use, in a direction away from the ladder and spaced apart, desirably at or 25 near opposite ends of the body, a pair of axles are mounted on each support and a rotatable ball on each axle. The supports are desirably spaced apart by at least the width of the ladder with which the stabiliser is being used. The rotatable balls may be made of any suitable material to provide adequate grip on abutment with a wall. Preferred materials include rubber, plastics materials and the like. 30 In addition to the abutments, the stabiliser of the invention suitably comprise two or more friction surfaces facing downwardly at or near the projecting end of the body relative to the ladder in addition to the two or more rotatable balls. The friction surfaces are adapted to contact a generally horizontal surface, for example a flat roof or scaffolding level and reduce the risk of lateral movement of the ladder in use. The weight of the user will act to urge the 35 friction surface onto the generally horizontal surface and thereby increase the lateral force which may be borne by the ladder without slipping laterally. The friction surface may be formed on the body itself but preferably comprises a pair of stops, desirably made of rubber 5 PARJBA770A for economic reasons, which are located on the underside of the body in use and present a friction surface to a generally horizontal surface against which the ladder is to be located . The body may be solid but preferably comprises a frame. The frame suitably comprises an upper "C" shaped strut and a lower "C" shaped strut connected to each other, 5 desirably with each 'C" shaped strut having two parallel sides and a third middle side joining the two sides being perpendicular to the two parallel sides. The struts may be joined to each other at or near the tips of the "C" so the plane of the two generally "C' shaped struts are inclined relative to each other. In an alternative embodiment, the two "C" shaped struts are suitably joined together 10 by a further pair of spacing struts arranged generally perpendicular to the -C" shaped struts and connecting the C" shaped struts together at or near both their ends. In this embodiment, the "C" shaped struts are generally in parallel planes. As desired, additional struts may be employed to join the two "C" shaped struts to provide additional structural integrity and these struts may be located at any point on the "C" shaped struts and are generally parallel to the 15 spacing struts and perpendicular to the "C" shaped struts, Transportation of known stabilisers may present logistical difficulties due to their bulky and unwieldy shape. This problem is exacerbated where the stabiliser has an open frame as a large proportion of the packaging volume is taken up by the void in the open frame, significantly increasing the costs of transportation and storage. 20 We have now in a further aspect developed a stabiliser according to the invention which has a collapsible frame which greatly reduces the volume required to store the stabiliser when not in use. In a further aspect the invention provides a ladder stabiliser for use with a ladder positioned against a wall, the ladder stabiliser comprising a collapsible body, means for 25 releasably securing the body to the ladder and two or more detachable abutments connectable to the body, each abutment having a first and second contact surface and being connectable to the body to provide two or more configurations for use. Preferably, the two or more detachable abutments connectable to the body wherein, in a first configuration, the abutments each present a first contact surface for abutting the wall 30 outside the stiles of the ladder such that the distance between the two first contact surfaces is greater than the width of the ladder or for engaging a generally horizontal surface and, in a second configuration, the abutments each present a second contact surface suitable for abutting adjoining walls at a comer. The collapsible body suitably comprises a frame having an upper "C" shaped strut 35 and a lower "C" shaped strut, desirably with each "C" shaped strut having two parallel sides and a third middle side joining the two sides being perpendicular to the two parallel sides, The struts are connected to each other at or near the tips of the two struts so they are 6 PARJBA770A movable relative to each other. In a preferred embodiment the two "C" shaped struts are pivotally mounted. The detachable abutments are suitably removed when the ladder assembly is stored.In use, the planes of the two generally "C" shaped struts are inclined relative to each other and the body is collapsible to smaller volume, desirably such that the 5 planes of the two "C" shaped struts are parallel to each other in a collapsed configuration, presenting a generally planar configuration thereby allowing the stabiliser to be closely packed with other stabilisers during storage, transportation or to be stored conveniently by the user. In the operating configuration, the two struts are suitably secured in a fixed relative 10 position for safety reasons. The "C" shaped struts are suitably dimensioned so as to fit around a ladder with the side parts of the "C" extending past the outside of the two ladder rails. The releasable securing means are suitably located at or near the middle side on either and preferably both "C" shaped struts. 15 Suitably, at least one and desirably both of the "C" shaped struts has a further bracing strut which joins the two ends of the "C" shaped strut so closing the "C" and forming a box. This arrangement adds strength to the body and is particularly desirable for heavy duty applications. The bracing strut may be linear or shaped, for example V-shaped to accommodate comers, drain pipes or other protrusions on the wall against which the ladder 20 is placed. The body is preferably made of a rigid, durable light-weight material, for example aluminium. The present invention is particularly advantageous for use with ladders on corners of adjoining walls and in avoiding obstructions in the wall for example drain pipes. In an 25 especially preferred embodiment, the body comprises two connected "C" shaped struts and at least one bracing strut wherein the bracing strut is "V' shaped, The "V" of the bracing strut faces into the "C" shaped strut and is suitably dimensioned and adapted to, in use, accommodate but not be in contact with a projecting corner edge of a wall or a drainpipe or other projection away from the plane of the wall. The arrangement of the at least two balls is 30 such that when the ladder stabiliser is used on a comer of two walls, the balls are in contact with the two walls but the "V" shaped bracing strut does not contact the walls or the corners unlike known ladder stabilisers . Furthermore, the "V' shaped strut allows the ladder to be rested against narrow structures, for example, lamp posts, telegraph poles, whereby the "V" shaped brace is in 35 contact and rests against the narrow structure. Preferably the ladder stabiliser comprises fixing means which may be placed around the narrow structure to secure the ladder stabiliser against the narrow structure. 7 PARJBA77DA Suitably, the means for releasably securing the body to the ladder are easily operated manually. Whilst a mechanism requiring the use of tools may be employed, desirably the said means are manually operable without the use of tools for the convenience of the user. The securing means preferably engage with a rung and desirably two rungs of the ladder to 5 provide improved stability and retain the ladder stabiliser in fixed relation to the ladder during use. The securing means may comprise a hooked bracket extending upwardly from the body and adapted to fit over a ladder rung. The securing means may further compose means for bracing the securing means against the rungs and/or stiles of the ladder. In a preferred embodiment, the securing means preferably comprises a pivotally 10 mounted bracket which is manually moveable to engage the bracket with a rung and which may be disengaged by moved the ladder stabiliser upwards along the ladder. The bracket suitably presents an upward facing camming surface on the top of the bracket whereby as the stabiliser is moved upwardly, the camming surface contacts the next rung and pivots out of the line of the rung so the stabiliser may pass beyond to the next rung where the process 15 is repeated. In an especially preferred embodiment, the securing means comprises two pivotally mounted brackets, spaced apart so as to engage two rungs, preferably successive rungs of the ladder. The preferred pivotal mounting Is also advantageous when employed with a collapsible body as the securing means may be pivoted into a plane approaching and 20 preferably parallel with that of the body in its collapsed configuration so providing a generally planar collapsed configuration. Where a collapsible body is employed, desirably the lower mounted bracket comprises a retaining notch or shelf adapted to engage with the lower part of the body, preferably a lower "C" shaped strut, in the operating configuration. Suitably, the lower part of the body is securable to the notch or shelf in the operating configuration, for 25 example by interengaging parts, a "J" bolt or an expandable connector, Preferably the securing means is secured in place using fixing means, desirably a "J" bolt although an expandable connector, for example spring clips passed around adjacent rungs on the ladder may be used. However, the distance between adjacent rungs may be different from ladder to ladder and the fixing means suitably have a degree of "play" which 30 disadvantageously may allow the stabiliser to move along the rung. Accordingly, in a preferred embodiment, the fixing means comprises a "J" bolt which provides rigidity and reduces the risk of lateral or vertical movement of the stabiliser. Suitably, the "J" bolt is mounted on an arm which is connected to the body, preferably one of the "C" shaped struts. Suitably, the arm is pivotally mounted on the body such that the "J" bolt may be adjusted 35 - finely into position and the fixing means be stowed in a convenient manner to reduce stored volume of the stabiliser and to avoid undesirably projecting parts. Preferably, the "J bolt is pivotally mounted on the arm to provide maximum flexibility for locating the "J" bolt in use 8 PARJBA770A around a rung of the ladder. The arm suitably comprises two parallel prongs defining a channel between them and the "J" bolt is pivotally mounted at or near the end of the prongs whereby the "J" bolt may be rotated and pass through the channel. This arrangement advantageously allows the stabiliser to be used with ladders having different spacings 5 between adjacent rungs and thereby avoids the drawback of manufacturing a series of products for use with ladders with different rung spacings. The fixing means may also be employed to secure the ladder stabiliser against a narrow structure as desired. In an alternative embodiment, the fixing means comprises a ratchet belt and means 10 for engaging the belt, for example a retaining eye. The belt is suitably connected to the body of the stabiliser and in use is passed around one or more rungs and engaged at an appropriate tension or, where the ladder stabiliser comprises a V shaped bracing strut and is employed against a narrow structure, the belt may be passed around the narrow structure and fastened so securing the ladder stabiliser to the narrow structure. The belt avoids the 15 disadvantage of retaining springs as it does not require any "play" and suitably remains in tension during use thereby firmly holding the ladder stabiliser in place. The ladder stabiliser may comprise guide means to guide the location of the stabiliser on the ladder. The guide means suitably engage with the rails of the ladder on placing the stabiliser at the end of the ladder and allow the stabiliser to be slid along the rails to the 20 appropriate location at which point the stabiliser may be located in place using the fixing means. In a preferred embodiment, the invention provides a ladder stabiliser for use with a ladder positioned against a wall, the ladder stabiliser comprising a body which comprises a frame having an upper "C" shaped strut and a lower "C' shaped strut connected to each 25 other, means for releasably securing the body to the ladder which comprises a pivotally mounted bracket which in use is manually moveable to engage the bracket with a rung on the ladder and disengagable by moving the ladder stabiliser along the ladder, securing means for securing the bracket on the rung of the ladder in use and two or more detachable abutments connectable to the body, each abutment being connectable to the body wherein. 30 in use in a first configuration, the abutments each present a first contact surface for abutting the wall outside the stiles of the ladder such that the distance between the two first contact surfaces is greater than the width of the ladder or for engaging a generally horizontal surface and, in use in a second configuration, the abutments each present a second contact surface for abutting the wall. 35 In a further preferred embodiment, the frame further comprises a "V" shaped bracing strut. 9 PARJBA770A The invention also provides in a further aspect a stabilised ladder kit comprising a ladder and a ladder stabiliser according to the present invention. The ladder stabiliser of the invention may also be employed as or formed as an integral part of a ladder. 5 Accordingly, the invention provides a stabilisable ladder comprising a ladder and a ladder stabiliser according to the present invention as described herein.The invention is illustrated in a non-limiting manner by reference to the accompanying drawings in which: Figure 1 shows a perspective view of a ladder stabiliser according to the invention with detachable abutments in a first configuration: 10 Figure 2 shows a perspective view of a ladder stabiliser according to the invention with detachable abutments in a second configuration; Figure 3 shows a plan view of a part of a ladder stabiliser according to the invention in the second configuration in situ on a ladder and resting against two walls which meet at a corner edge; 15 Figure 4 shows a perspective view of an abutment, being a part of the invention; Figures 5 and 6 show a side plan view of a ladder stabiliser according to the invention having a collapsible body and being in a collapsed configuration suitable for storage; Figure 7 shows a perspective view of a of a ladder stabiliser according to the invention with detachable abutments in a first configuration and with pivotally mounted first 20 contact surfaces; Figure 8 shows a perspective view of fixing means for use with the present invention Figure 9 shows the fixing means of Figure B attached to the ladder stabiliser and engaged with a rung of a ladder Figure 10 shows a photograph of the ladder stabiliser shown in Figure 7 in a first 25 configuration; Figure 11 shows a photograph of the fixing means shown in Figures 8 and 9 attached to a ladder Figure 12 shows a photograph of the stabiliser shown in Figure 7 in use in a first configuration and securely attached to a ladder and leaning against a wall. 30 The ladder stabiliser shown in Figure 1 has a body in the form of a frame which comprises a first C shaped strut (10) and a second C shaped strut (11) joined at the ends of the "C" of each strut. A horizontal bracing strut (3) links the two ends of the "C" shaped struts together to provide additional structural rigidity and strength and is adapted to receive abutments (4) and (5). . Brackets (2) are provided to engage with the rungs of a ladder and 35 these comprise lower parts (14) to engage with the next lower rung to provide additional rigidity in fixing the stabiliser to the ladder and a notch or shelf (13) to engage with the lower strut (10) . Fixing means for example a J bolt as shown in Figure 9 (not shown) is suitably 10 PARJBA770A provided on the strut (10) and rotatably mounted which secures the ladder stabiliser to the ladder. Abutments (4) and (5) are slideably mountable on the strut (3) and have spring loaded notches (6) which engage with holes in the strut (3) so as to lock the abutments (4), (5) in place The strut (3) may be provided with a plurality of holes to provide a plurality of 5 fixing positions for the abutments (4) and (5). The abutments (4), (5) each have an extended spur (7), each of which has a first contact surface (8) which may be a rubber stop or preferably a pivotally mounted foot. The abutments (4), (5) also comprise a rotatable ball (9) which provides a second contact surface in a second configuration as shown in Figure 2. The frame comprises a lower first "C" shaped strut (10) and an upper "C" shaped strut 10 (11) connected to the lower strut (10), preferably by a pivot (12) to allow the frame to be collapsible. A bracing strut (3) provides a brace between the ends of the "C!" shaped strut and provides additional structural rigidity and strength. The stabiliser comprises means for securing the stabiliser to a ladder comprising brackets (2) and (14) adapted to engage with rungs of a ladder and notch or shelf (13) is adapted to receive the lower strut (10). Bracket 15 (2) is pivotally mounted on the upper strut (11) by rings (15) and rotatable into the plane of the upper strut (11). Part (14) abuts a lower rung (20) of a ladder and provides additional stability. Fixing means comprising for example a ratchet belt and a retaining eye or bolt, preferably a "J" bolt as shown in Figure 9 is provided which additionally secures the ladder stabiliser to the ladder and may be used to secure the lower strut (10) to the shelf (13). 20 The ladder stabiliser may be arranged in a collapsed configuration with the lower strut (10), the upper strut (11) and the means for securing the stabillser pivoted into a planar arrangement whereby the stabiliser may be conveniently, packed, stored or transported, Figure 2 shows the stabiliser of the invention illustrated in Figure 1 with the abutments (4), (5) arranged for use in a second configuration whereby the abutments extend 25 away from the ladder in use and rotatable balls (9) are arranged to contact for example adjoining walls at a corner. The "C' shaped strut (10) is adapted to receive the abutments and has holes with which the spring loaded notches (6) may engage to secure the abutments (4), (5) in fixed relation to the body, The strut (10) may comprise a plurality of notches (6) along its length on both arms of the "C" shaped strut to provide for adjustable fixing of the 30 abutments (4) and/or (5). Generally the abutments (4) and (5) would extend the same distance from the body but a plurality of holes allows the abutments (4), (5) to be employed in an offset arrangement as desired, In the second configuration, the first contact surfaces (8) extend downwardly and are adapted to contact and engage a generally flat surface thereby allowing a user to safely alight on the surface from the ladder or vice versa. 35 Figure 3 shows a part of the ladder stabiliser of the invention in use in a second configuration as shown in Figure 2 supporting a ladder against two walls meeting at a corner edge. The two balls (9) are mounted such that they face each other and engage the wall. 11 PARJBA770A The balls (9) rest against the walls and engage at non-parallel tangents. The length of the abutments (4), (5) provides a recess between the balls (9) and strut (3) such that the projecting comer edge where the walls meet may be accommodated and the ladder be used in a stable manner. 5 Figure 4 shows an abutment (4) having a spring loaded notch (6) on a portion of the abutment adapted to engage with a socket on the body of the stabiliser in a first or second configuration, The abutment (4) has an extended spur (7) with a contact surface (8) for engagement with a wall in a first configuration as shown in Figure 1 or with a generally horizontal surface in a second configuration as shown in Figure 2. 10 In Figures 5 and 6, shows the ladder stabiliser In a collapsed configuration with the lower strut (10), the upper strut (11) and the means for securing the stabiliser pivoted into a planar arrangement whereby the stabiliser may be conveniently, packed, stored or transported. The abutments are shown in a detached but proximate location ready for insertion into the frame in the 15 second configuration in Figure 5 and the first configuration in Figure 6 The ladder stabiliser shown in Figure 7 has a body in the form of a frame which comprises a first C shaped strut (10) and a second C shaped strut (11) joined at the ends of the "C" of each strut. A horizontal bracing strut (3) links the two ends of the "C" shaped struts together to provide additional structural rigidity and strength and is adapted to receive 20 abutments (4) and (5). . Brackets (2) are provided to engage with the rungs of a ladder and comprise a lower part (14) adapted to abut with a rung of the ladder so as to provide a rigid arrangement and notches (13) which engage with the strut (10), Fixing means for example a J bolt as shown in Figure 9 (not shown) is suitably provided on the strut (10) between notches (13) and rotatably mounted so the J bolt (16) may be engaged with the lower rung of 25 the ladder with which part (14) abuts and tightened to provide a secure fixing of the bolt (16) to the ladder. Abutments (4) and (5) are slideably mountable on the strut (3) and have spring loaded notches (6) which engage with holes in the strut (3) so as to lock the abutments (4), (5) in place. The abutments (4), (5) each have an extended spur (7), each of which has a 30 pivotal joint (20) and attached thereto a first contact surface (8) in the form of a foot. The abutments (4), (5) also comprise a rotatable ball (9) which provides a second contact surface in a second configuration as shown in Figure 2.The fixing means in Figure 8 includes a "J" bolt (16), suitably having a screw thread, attached to a sleeve (17). The sleeve is engagable in a pivotal manner with the frame of the ladder stabiliser. The "J" bolt may be moved 35 upwardly or downwardly by rotating an adjustment nut (18) which engages with the screw on the "J" bolt (16). 12 PARJBA770A The fixing means of Figure 8 is shown in position in Figure 9 being pivotally mounted on a lower "C" shaped strut (10) and with the "J" bolt engaged with the rung of a ladder (6). Bracket (2) and part (14) also contact the rungs of the ladder and together with the fixing means ensure that the ladder stabiliser is firmly attached to the ladder so reducing the risk of 5 lateral or vertical movement of the ladder stabiliser relative to the ladder. 13

Claims

1. A ladder stabiliser for use with a ladder positioned against a wall, the ladder stabiliser comprising a body, means for releasably securing the body to the ladder and two or more 5 two or more detachable abutments connectable to the body, each abutment having a first and second contact surface and being connectable to the body to provide two or more configurations for use.

2. A ladder stabiliser according to claim 1 comprising two or more detachable abutments 10 each abutment having a contact surface comprising a pivotally mounted foot.

3. A ladder stabiliser according to claim 1 or claim 2 which is adapted to provide an arrangement such that in use in a first configuration the abutments each present a first contact surface for abutting the wall outside the stiles of the ladder such that the distance 15 between the two first contact surfaces is greater than the width of the ladder and In a second configuration the abutments each present a second contact surface for abutting adjoining walls at a corner or for engaging a generally horizontal surface.

4. A ladder stabiliser according to any one of the preceding -claims wherein each 20 abutment comprises an extended spur having a friction surface.

5. A ladder stabiliser according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the body and abutments comprise interengaging connecting parts for manual assembly and detachment of the abutments from the body. 25

6. A ladder stabiliser according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the abutments each comprise a rotatable ball to provide a curved contact surface for the wall.

7. A ladder stabiliser according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the body 30 comprises a frame.

8. A ladder stabiliser according to claim 7 in which the frame is collapsible such that the frame in a collapsed configuration occupies less volume than when configured for use. 35

9. A ladder stabiliser according to any one of claims 7 or 8 in which the frame comprises an upper "C" shaped strut and a lower "C" shaped strut connected to each other. 14 PARJBA7TOA

10. A ladder stabiliser according to claim 9in which the "C" shaped struts are connected together or via spacing struts at or near their projecting ends.

11. A ladder stabiliser according to any one of claims 7 to loin which the frame 5 comprises an upper "C" shaped strut and a lower "C" shaped strut pivotally connected to each other at or near their projecting ends whereby the frame is collapsible.

12, A ladder stabiliser according to any one of claims 9 to 11 wherein at least one of the "C" shaped struts has a bracing strut which joins the two ends of the 'C" shaped strut so 10 closing the "C".

13. A ladder stabiliser according to claim 12 wherein the bracing strut is "V" shaped.

14. A ladder stabiliser according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the means 15 for releasably set'uring the body to the ladder are manually operable without tools

15. A ladder stabiliser according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the securing means comprises a hooked bracket for engaging with a rung of the ladder in use. 20

16. A ladder stabiliser according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the securing means comprises a pivotally mounted bracket which is manually operable so as, in use, to engage the bracket with a rung and to disengage the bracket by moving the ladder stabiliser along the ladder. 25

17. A ladder stabiliser according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the securing means comprises two pivotally mounted brackets, spaced apart so as, in use, to be engagable with two rungs.

18. A ladder stabiliser according to any one of the preceding claims in which the securing 30 means are securable using fixing means comprising an expandable connector which remains in tension during use or a bolt.

19. A ladder stabiliser according to any one of the preceding claims comprising fixing means for securing the stabiliser to a ladder. 35

20. A ladder stabiliser according to claim 19 wherein the fixing means comprises a J bolt which is adapted to be securely engageable with a rung of a ladder to which the stabiliser. in use, is to be attached. 15 PARJBA770A

21. A ladder stabiliser comprising a body which comprises a frame having an upper "C" shaped strut and a lower "C" shaped strut connected to each other, optionally pivotally, means for releasably securing the body to the ladder which comprises a bracket, fixing 5 means for securing the bracket on the rung of the ladder and two or more detachable abutments connectable to the body, each abutment having a first and second contact surface and being connectable to the body to provide two or more configurations for use.

22. A ladder stabiliser according to claim 21 comprising two or more detachable 10 abutments connectable to the body, each abutment being connectable to the body in a first configuration such that the abutments each present a first contact surface for abutting the wall outside the stiles of the ladder such that the distance between the two first contact surfaces is greater than the width of the ladder and in a second configuration such that the abutments each present a second contact surface for abutting adjoining walls at a corner or 15 for engaging a generally horizontal surface.

23. A ladder stabiliser according to claim 21 or claim 22 which is collapsible and further comprises two or more friction surfaces facing downwardly of the stabiliser in use and wherein the body comprises 2 "C" shaped struts pivotally mounted to each other and being 20 collapsible into a coplanar arrangement and wherein the bracket is pivotally mounted and collapsible into a coplanar arrangement with the "C" shaped struts.

24. A ladder stabiliser according to any one of claims 21 to 23 in which the bracket is pivotally mounted and in use is manually moveable relative to the frame to engage the 25 bracket with a rung on the ladder and disengagable by moving the ladder stabiliser along the ladder.

25. A ladder stabiliser according to any one of claims 21 to 24 wherein the fixing means comprises a "J" bolt which is pivotally mounted on the lower "C" shaped strut. 30

26. A ladder stabiliser according to any one of the preceding claims wherein the rotatable balls are made of rubber of a plastics material.

27. A stabilisable ladder assembly comprising a ladder and a ladder stabiliser comprising 35 a body and two or more detachable abutments connectable to the body, each abutment having a first and second contact surface and being connectable to the body to provide two or more configurations for use and wherein the body is integral with the ladder. 16 PARJBA770A

28. A kit of parts for assembly into a ladder stabiliser comprising: i) a stabiliser body comprising means for releasably securing the body to a ladder; and 5 ii) two or more detachable abutments connectable to the body, each abutment having a first and second contact surface and being connectable to the body to provide two or more configurations for use.

29. A stabilised ladder kit comprising a ladder and a ladder stabiliser according to any 10 one of claims 1 to 27.

30. A ladder stabiliser substantially as herein described with reference to the accompanying drawings. 15 17