Abstract: A retractable ladder having a low coefficient of friction plastic bushing is received within a coupling that joins a ladder rung to the associated longitudinal stile. The coupling is press fitted to the bushing, compressing a portion of the bushing against the stile, slightly deforming the adjoining portion of the stile to lock the assembly together. A latch having an inwardly sloping surface locks the ladder stiles in an extended condition and cannot be withdrawn to retract the ladder when the ladder is supporting a normal load. Dampers having orifices also are mounted in some or all of the hollow stiles to regulate the flow of air from the retracting stiles and, in this way to retard the velocity with which the ladder retracts to a predetermined, safe value.