The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission is recalling more than 3.6 million Little Giant ladders because their height adjustment locks may not fully engage, creating a risk that the ladders could retract while in use and cause users to fall.
The recall covers 11 ladder types and more than 130 models, with prices ranging from $100 to $1,000. Affected products include the Adjustable Fortress 2.0, Conquest 2.0 and Quantum ladders. The mechanism, known as rapid locks, is designed to fit into ladder rungs to secure the selected height.
Little Giant has received 39 reports of rapid locks not working properly, including 25 reports of ladders retracting. Nineteen retraction incidents resulted in injuries. Three reports involved head injuries, including traumatic brain injury, skull fractures, concussions, vision loss, hearing loss and cognitive impairment. Sixteen other reports involved injuries such as joint or bone fractures, lacerations and bruising.
Consumers are instructed to stop using affected ladders until they receive and apply supplemental warning labels provided in a repair kit. The labels direct users to visually confirm that every rapid lock is fully engaged before climbing. The kit also includes instructions for operating and lubricating the locks.
Little Giant said it is sending repair kits to all known users who have experienced rapid lock malfunctions. Operating and maintenance guidance is also accessible through a QR code on the ladder. CPSC advises consumers to lubricate the locks and evaluate their ladders regularly.
If a lock still does not function properly after evaluation, consumers will be offered a replacement ladder of the same or an equivalent model, or a refund. Refund amounts depend on the purchase date and may reflect depreciation. Ladders purchased within the previous 12 months qualify for a refund of the full purchase price, according to the official recall notice issued by CPSC.