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From stocking and inventory management to maintenance and repairs, sometimes you need a little extra height at work.
A step ladder can be just the ticket.
Their self-supporting A-frame design makes them more versatile and often more stable than a traditional extension ladder. So, they’re ideal for accessing those hard-to-reach spots wherever they may be.
Browse our range of step ladders here at SMI to reach the stars (or just the ceiling!).
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A step ladder is a ladder with an A-frame design, which can stand freely instead of needing to lean up against a wall.
It also features flat treads instead of rungs.
In this way, a step ladder is generally more versatile, stable, and easy to climb than most traditional ladders.
A platform step ladder is like a step ladder, but it features a wide, flat surface at the top.
This provides extra stability for workers, which is ideal for prolonged work at height.
With this in mind, platform step ladders often boast additional features like handrails for extra safety or wheels to allow for easy movement.
You can buy step ladders right here at SMI.
Our range spans step ladders ranging from 2 treads to 7 treads, making it easy to find the perfect fit for your needs.
Or, browse our wider range of ladders and steps to find exactly what you’re after – whether it’s mobile warehouse steps, extension ladders, or platform steps.
It’s important to use step ladders safely, especially when in a work setting.
Here’s how:
You can learn more about using step ladders safely on the HSE website.
No, as a general rule, you shouldn’t lean a step ladder against a wall.
This is because they’re designed to stand open, so using them as a leaning ladder could cause them to slip.
However, some modern combination ladders are specially designed to function as both a step ladder and a leaning ladder. In this case, leaning it against a wall should be fine as long as you check and follow the manufacturer’s guidance.
The British Standard for step ladders is BS EN 131.
This covers all portable ladders, including step, extension, and combination ladders.
Step ladders were previously covered by British Standards BS 2037 and BS 1129, but these were replaced in 2019 because they lacked adequate requirements for slip resistance, stability, and durability.
Looking for a step ladder that’s marked with the new BS EN 131 certification will give you confidence that it meets the most up-to-date safety requirements.
That depends on what you’re planning to use it for.
Fibreglass step ladders are a must for electrical work as they’re non-conductive. They can also be a good option if you’re looking for something exceptionally durable and weather-resistant.
On the other hand, aluminium step ladders are often the better choice for general tasks that don’t involve electricity or heat. Not only do they cost less, but they’re also lightweight and therefore more portable.
We stock both fibreglass and aluminium step ladders here at SMI.
The American National Standards Institute (ANSI) groups ladders and step ladders into types based on their load capacities or duty ratings.
Type 1 ladders have a load capacity or duty rating up to 250 pounds and are suitable for heavy-duty use in industrial or construction environments.
Meanwhile, Type 2 ladders have a load capacity up to 225 pounds, making them suitable for medium-duty commercial use.
These classifications are primarily used in the US and Canada.
Although the UK used to have a similar class system, this has now been replaced by the new BS EN 131 standard.
The new standard sorts ladders into two groups based on durability and safety testing – EN 131 Professional for industrial and workplace use, and EN 131 Non-Professional for domestic and DIY use. Both must have a maximum load capacity of at least 150 kg (330 pounds).
