Choosing a stepladder

​What to look for when you are buying or borrowing

Many different designs are available, from small ‘step stools’ to larger stepladders and combination designs which can be converted into extending ladders.

The type bought most often are the 4 to 7 step folding versions, as illustrated in this Guide. These are suited to many jobs around the house, but it’s very important never to use any stepladder that is the wrong height for the particular job you are doing. Some are too shortfor high work, and some - just as dangerous - are too tall for lower work. You must be able to do your work comfortably without over-reaching up, down or sideways.

All stepladders should meet the required British or European standards - check this whenever you buy, hire or borrow one.

• BS 1129:1990 (British) applies to wooden ladders.
• BS 2037:1994 (British) applies to metal ladders.
• BS EN 131:1993 (European) applies to both.
• BS 7377:1994 (British) applies to step-stools.

Is it strong enough?

New stepladders are generally marked according to their safe working load. This classification however, can vary slightly in the values given, and has caused confusion. The variation is due to the different way in which the values for safe working are expressed. In the British Standard it is “Duty rating”. These have been arrived at by taking into account the general conditions and probable frequency of use for each type. The European Standard uses “Maximum static vertical load”. To help clarify this, we have given both sets of figures.

British Standard stepladders to BS 2037 (Aluminium) or BS 1129 (Wood) or BS 7377 (Step-stools).

• Class 1 (Industrial)

  Duty rating 130kg (20 stone) - Maximum vertical static load 175kg.

• Class 3 (Domestic)

  Duty rating 95kg (15 stone) - Maximum vertical static load 125kg.

European Standard stepladders to BS/EN 131 (All types)

• (Previous Class 2)

  Duty rating 115kg (18 stone) - Maximum vertical static load 150kg.

Is it safe?

​Most stepladder accidents are caused by human error, not by ladders failing. Any equipment in poor condition is potentially dangerous, so do this quick check before each job.

• Is the stepladder generally sound? No damage to the stiles (the outside uprights) or steps or top platform? Dents, bends, cracks and splits are all hazards. If you do find any structural damage, don’t attempt to repair it - you need a new stepladder.
• Are the rubber or plastic non-slip feet all safely in position? Before you use the stepladder, any missing ones must be replaced - you can

  usually get these from the manufacturer.

• Make sure the steps are all clean and dry.

Get Set

​Avoid falls and injuries from equipment by following the points below for every job.

Getting ready

• Wear flat, firm soled shoes. Never work in high heels, bare feet or slippers.
• Check that there are no overhead hazards near where you are going to work.

Setting up

• Check that the stepladder is locked into its correct position. If it is a multi-way design, make sure it is in the right configuration for the job you are doing. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
• Rest it on a firm and level base. If you are working outside, place a large, flat board on any soft ground to make a suitable base.
• Position it front-on to the work.
• Never work sideways.

On the stepladder

• Keep a secure grip at all times.
• Never have more than one person on the stepladder at a time.
• Do not put loose tools where they could move or fall and cause an injury. Use a fixed-on work tray if necessary.
• Always have both your feet on a step. Never stand on the top handrail to gain extra height. And don’t forget….
• Never over-reach.

When the job is done

• Keep your stepladder protected from the weather in a covered, ventilated area.
• Never hang it vertically from one of its steps.
• Keep it out of the way of children.

The right way

• Meets British or European standard - BS 2037, BS 1129, BS 7377, BS EN 131 (or EN 131)
• Ladder undamaged
• Right height for the job
• Flat shoes
• Clean steps
• FOUR non-slip feet
• No over-reaching
• Good grip
• Front-on
• Firm and level base

The wrong way

• Overhead hazard
• Over reaching
• Wrong height for the job
• No grip on ladder
• Standing on top handrail
• Loose tools
• Sideways on
• Uneven soft ground, no flat board
• Damaged stiles
• Non-slip foot missing
• Damage step
• Slippery steps
• Slippers

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