Step Stool Safety Tips

Whether you need to reach a top shelf or change a lightbulb, step stools are a super useful tool for when you just need a little extra height! Although step stools are commonplace in most professional and home settings, they are not without risk of injury. This blog will go over some of our top step stool safety tips so that you can stay safe next time you need to use one.  

Before Use

Before using a step stool, there a number of different things you will want to check:

• Always thoroughly inspect your step stool before use. Look for structural damage, cracks, loose parts and defective safety features. If you spot any damages, DO NOT use the step stool.
  
  
• Make sure your step stool is the appropriate height and has an appropriate weight capacity for your task.
  
  
• Only use a step stool if your work task is of short duration and there is no suitable safer alternative.

Setting up Your Step Stool

If you have confirmed that a step stool is safe for your task and in good working condition, the following steps will help you set it up safely…

• Always make sure you are wearing appropriate footwear before using a step stool (i.e. not heels, sandals, barefoot or in shoes without grip).
  
  
• Only ever use a step stool on a firm level surface.
  
  
• Never place a step stool on top of a table, chair or other unstable object.
  
  
• Make sure that the area you are setting up in is clear of water, grease, clutter and other hazards.
  
  
• If setting up the step stool on a smooth surface like a tiled floor, ensure that the step stool has slip-resistant feet.
  
  
• Make sure there is no risk of the stool being pushed or knocked over by other hazards e.g. opening doors.
  
  
• Always fully extend/ lock the spreader bars before use.

Tips for Safe Step Stool Use

To stay safe while using a step stool, make sure you keep the following tips in mind:

• Always step in the middle of the step so that your weight is evenly distributed.
  
  
• Never twist while using a stool, make sure that it is always set up so that you are facing the work and can ascend and descend facing forward.
  
  
• Avoid overreaching, stop and reposition the stool if necessary.
  
  
• If carrying heavy or awkward items, check the stool’s weight capacity and ask for help if needed.
  
  
• Always maintain three points of contact: have two feet on the step and one hand on the stool or nearby wall for stability.
  
  
• Once you have finished using the stool, store it in a safe, dry place.

If you have any questions about step stool safety, please don’t hesitate to contact us at Ladders UK Direct. You can browse our collection of step stools by clicking the button below.

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