Posted By Jerry Lucey Aluminium ladders are usually, if not always fitted with some sort of anti slip device/ rubber ferils at the base. If the base of the ladder is cut this will remove the anti-slip device. Even if this is refitted, I feel that chopping and refixing the rubber ferils could present a liability issue in the event of these falling off/ failing/ becoming faulty in the future, resulting in an accident. These rubber devices would certainly be more prone to failing/ becoming damaged on a ladder where the bottom had been chopped off/ altered. You should also consider the risk of sharp edges created through cutting the top or bottom of the ladder as aluminium ladders are usually a sealed unit with all edges tapered off. A ladder register is always a good idea to trace ladders and the checking regime that is in place for their maintenance.

Posted By Merv Newman Skips and waste bins seem to have rubber linings - anything remotely useful thrown into them seems to bounce right back out. Very common with bent eye-bolts and ladders. Visited a site where one ladder had been thrown in the skip three times. Finally the plant safety technician fell off and broke his leg. Advised them to cut it in half -vertically - and THEN throw it in the skip. Same goes for any damaged or worn lifting gear. I don't think any damaged/repaired/modified ladder would continue to meet British Standards.

Posted By Merv Newman Have you never seen a safety harness sown together with wire ? Or the central buckle replaced with a plastic clip ? Or with the wearers legs not inside the harness ? Or the hard hat drilled with lots of tiny holes for ventilation ? Or the safety glasses without glasses ? A bit off the subject I know, but I was feeling nostalgic and got carried away Aaaargh Merv

Posted By Merv Newman Or safety shoes with holes drilled in the bottom to let the water OUT

Posted By Mark Talbot Jane, I agree with your approach. So long as it is done properly (squarely (when opened), refitting the feet, etc) it should not materially affect the usefulness of the ladder ... except for height of course. If I cut the damaged end off a rope, I am modifying the rope - but it is still perfectly functional for the rest of its length.