WAH/Access Equipment/TBT-WAH-016

Stepladder Safe Use

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Stepladder Safe Use

Toolbox Talk Record

Ref: TBT-WAH-016  |  Issue: 1  |  Date: March 2026
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What?

  • Stepladders are one of the most commonly misused pieces of access equipment on construction sites.
  • They are only suitable for short-duration, light-duty tasks that can be completed in a few minutes.
  • Falls from stepladders cause more injuries than falls from scaffolds due to widespread incorrect use.
  • The Work at Height Regulations 2005 allow stepladders only where a risk assessment justifies their use.
  • Stepladders must be fully opened with all four feet on firm, level ground and spreaders locked.
  • The top two steps must not be stood on unless the stepladder is designed with a safe platform.
  • Overreaching is the most common cause of falls; keep your belt buckle within the stile width.
  • Stepladders must be inspected before each use for damaged stiles, bent rungs, and faulty hinges.
  • A stepladder should not be used as a leaning ladder or positioned against a wall for access.
  • BS EN 131 sets the standards; only industrial-rated stepladders are suitable for construction sites.

Why?

Most common fallStepladder falls cause more workplace injuries than any other access equipment due to widespread misuse.
OverreachingWorkers lean sideways beyond the safe reach envelope, toppling the stepladder and falling onto hard surfaces.
Legal complianceThe Work at Height Regulations 2005 require a risk assessment justifying stepladder use over safer alternatives.
Do Don't
  • Open the stepladder fully and lock the spreader bars before climbing.
  • Place all four feet on firm, level ground before use.
  • Keep your belt buckle within the stile width to avoid overreaching.
  • Inspect the stepladder for damage, loose rivets, and bent steps before use.
  • Use industrial-rated stepladders complying with BS EN 131 on construction sites.
  • Maintain three points of contact when climbing up and down.
  • Face the stepladder when climbing and working; do not turn your back.
  • Use a stepladder only for short-duration tasks lasting a few minutes.
  • Choose a safer alternative such as a podium step for longer tasks.
  • Tag defective stepladders and remove them from service immediately.
  • DON'T stand on the top two steps unless there is a safe working platform.
  • DON'T lean sideways beyond the width of the stepladder stiles.
  • DON'T use a stepladder on soft, sloping, or uneven ground.
  • DON'T use a folded stepladder as a leaning ladder against a wall.
  • DON'T use domestic-rated stepladders on construction sites.
  • DON'T carry heavy tools or materials while climbing a stepladder.
  • DON'T use a stepladder near open edges, excavations, or traffic routes.
  • DON'T use a stepladder in windy conditions where it could blow over.
  • DON'T modify or repair a damaged stepladder; replace it with a new one.
  • DON'T use a stepladder for tasks that require a scaffold or MEWP.

See also: Ladder Safety | Working at Height Hierarchy of Control
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