Abstract: A positioning joint for a folding ladder comprising a first joint member, a second joint member, an operating lever pivotably connected to the first joint member and U-shaped members acting as a control means. The U-shaped member has a sustaining portion and two bolt receiving portions each with a central bore which is embodied in the shape of an ellipse. The joint members, lever and U-shaped member are pivotably interconnected permitting engagement and disengagement of spring and pawl units with the U-shaped member for thereby locking and unlocking the joint.