Product overview

The Fundi Folding Aluminium Ladder FFL42 is the smallest and most popular size in the Fundi multipurpose folding range (FFL42, FFL43, FFL44, FFL45, FFL46). The code reads simply: FFL for Fundi Folding Ladder, 4 for the four hinged sections, and 2 for the number of steps in each section — eight steps in total.

Four heavy-duty multi-position hinges join the sections. Each hinge carries a pair of spring-loaded locking pins that hold the joint rigid at 0°, 90° and 180°, which is what gives the ladder its four working shapes. Because everything is built from anti-rust aluminium alloy, the complete ladder weighs roughly 8 kg — light enough for one person to carry up a staircase, strong enough for a 150 kg working load.

It is the right size for homes, shops, offices, salons, churches, schools, hotels and site fit-out work in and around Nairobi: standard 2.4–3 m ceilings, gypsum and ceiling boards, curtain rails, CCTV cameras and alarms, bulb and fluorescent-tube changes, signage, cleaning, painting and general maintenance. If you regularly work on double-storey walls or high godown ceilings, step up to the FFL43 or FFL44.

Full technical specifications

Confirm the exact figures printed on the carton or hinge label of the batch you have in stock before publishing final dimensions — the 150 kg rating, the 4×2 configuration and the aluminium construction are manufacturer-stated; lengths and weight are nominal for this class of ladder.

Fundi folding ladder size guide (FFL42 vs FFL43, FFL44, FFL45)

Four working positions

A low working platform can be formed by bridging two ladders with a certified scaffold plank. Only do this with a rated plank, on level ground, at a low height, and never with the ladder in the A-frame position.

How to use the Fundi FFL42 safely

1. Inspect before every use. Look over the rails, rungs, rivets, hinge pins and rubber feet. A bent rail, a missing foot or a pin that does not spring back means the ladder is out of service until it is repaired.
2. Choose your position. Decide on A-frame, straight, L-shape or stair position before you open anything — changing position while standing on the ladder is the most common cause of accidents.
3. Release the hinge. Pull both locking pins on the hinge outwards at the same time and swing the section to the angle you want. Keep your fingers clear of the hinge plates as they close.
4. Confirm the lock. Release the pins and push them home, then flex the joint by hand. Every hinge must click fully into place with the pins seated flush before anyone climbs.
5. Set it on firm, level ground. All four feet must touch dry, solid ground. Never stand the ladder on loose murram, wet tiles, a table, a drum or a stack of blocks.
6. Get the angle right when leaning. Use the 4:1 rule — the base sits one metre out from the wall for every four metres of height. Extend the top about a metre past a roof edge you intend to step onto.
7. Climb correctly. Face the ladder, keep three points of contact, keep your hips between the rails, carry tools in a belt or pouch, and never stand on the top two steps of the A-frame.
8. One person at a time. The 150 kg limit covers the user plus tools. Have a second person foot the ladder on windy or busy sites rather than climb with you.
9. Fold, clean and store. Release the hinges, fold the sections together, wipe off paint, cement or oil, and store the ladder flat or hanging in a dry place away from direct sunlight and chemicals.

Where the FFL42 is used

Care and maintenance

Frequently asked questions

Buy the Fundi FFL42 ladder at Shabbiri Hardware

Both branches stock the Fundi folding ladder range. Walk in and open one up before you buy — we will show you every position and the correct way to lock the hinges.