Patent ID: 6419047
Filing Date: 2002-07-16
Classification: E06C

Abstract:
A portable ladder having resistance to slippage on ground, which comprisesside members each having a lower end and rungs secured therebetween; a securing member which is pivotally attached to the lower ends of both side members; the securing member comprising a plate extending essentially completely between the side members and having an upper surface and a friction member on its lower surface for co-operating with the ground on which the ladder is to be mounted; the pivot being arranged so that, when the ladder is mounted on the ground, the securing member is capable of pivoting between a first position in which the upper surface of the securing member rests against the side members and a second position inward of the side members in which the friction member rests on the ground; and latching members attached to a respective one of said side members for releasably locking the securing member into the second position, each latching member comprising a ratchet mechanism on the pivot whereby action of rotating the securing member on the pivot acts against the ratchet mechanism to a latched second position from which the securing member can be released.