Professional step ladder or stool: how to choose the right height

For working at low height in a warehouse, workshop or shop, choose a step ladder with a platform and guardrails if you will be up there for a long time; a stool with a few steps is fine for quick reaches. Look at the working height: in the data it equals the platform height plus about 2 m, so with a platform at 0.40 m you can work at around 2.40 m. The stated load capacity is 120-150 kg, and you must also count the weight of the tools you carry with you.

The types

• Step ladders with platform and guardrails: you work standing on the platform, protected at the sides. Examples are the Mega step ladder with guardrails and, with a larger platform, the Mega with enlarged platform and guardrails.
• Fibreglass step ladders and ladders: for example the Punto Fibra fibreglass step ladder. Fibreglass does not conduct electricity, which is useful for those working near electrical installations; for live work always follow the manufacturer's instructions.
• Industrial step ladders and Saliscendi: for example the Saliscendi series, also with a guardrail kit, and the ESRD0015CK industrial step ladder.
• Work stools: models with one or a few steps, such as the Edilizia or Ikaro stools.
• Household ladders: for occasional use and light loads.

How to choose by job

The right question is not how tall the ladder is, but how high you need to reach and how long you will stay up there. A job of a few seconds tolerates a stool; a half-hour job with both hands occupied requires a platform with guardrails.

The features to look at

• Platform height: from 0.24 to 1.20 m in the collection. Some models give a range (for example 0.40-1.00 m).
• Working height: from 2.24 to 3.00 m. It is what decides what you can reach with your arms raised.
• Load capacity: 120, 130 or 150 kg. Allow for your own weight plus tools and materials.
• Material: aluminium (light and rust-resistant), steel (sturdy), fibreglass (insulating), polypropylene (light).
• Weight: from 2 to over 15 kg. The lighter it is, the more easily it moves; the heavier it is, the more stable.
• Standards: the data sheets cite EN 14183 (step stools), EN 131 (ladders) and D.Lgs. 81/08, art. 113. Always check which one applies to the model and to your use.
• Warranty: 2 or 5 years, depending on the model.

Common mistakes

• Looking at the platform height and forgetting the working height, then having to overreach.
• Not counting the weight of the tools in the load capacity.
• Using the step ladder on an uneven floor or with the castors unlocked.
• Leaning out sideways instead of climbing down and moving it.
• Choosing an aluminium model for work near electrical installations.

Frequently asked questions

Stool or step ladder with guardrails?

If you have to stay up for more than a few minutes, the step ladder with guardrails. The stool is fine for quick reaches and low heights.

How do I work out the height I need?

Start from the working height: in the data it equals the platform plus about 2 m. Choose the model that reaches just above the point you need to get to.

Does it need checking during use?

Yes: the non-slip steps, feet and locking devices should be checked from time to time, and the ladder must be fully opened before climbing.

How much does a professional step ladder weigh?

In the data the weights range from about 2 to 15 kg. If you move it all day, choose the lightest model that carries your load; if it stays mostly in one place, stability matters more.

Is fibreglass heavier?

Often yes, compared with aluminium. Look at the weight on the data sheet and choose according to how much you move it.

See all the models in the professional step stools collection: for advice on the right model or for a quote, write to the AMES technicians.