Warehouse Step Ladders & Platforms - A Buyers Guide
Posted on 8th April 2025 at 12:51
Not every warehouse operation is the same. Your choice of platform or ladder will depend on your environment, set-up and how you’re working within it; as a result there is a vast range of ladders and platforms on the market. In this blog, we look at some of the key items you can look for when selecting your new steps for both safety and productivity.
What to look for when buying a ladder or platform
Height & racking set-up - choose a ladder that is tall enough to safely reach your highest shelf or rack without forcing someone to stretch
Workspace - The way you are working, the environment and what you are required to do will influence the choice of your ladder or platform for both
safety and efficiency
Frequency of use - how long will your team member be working at a height, if they are picking, will they be working at speed? The size of the platform,
safety features and ease of mobility, should all be considered
Load capacity - load capacity is important. Safety standards will give you an indication of total load weight e.g. 150kg for EN 131 but any set of steps
should have a specified load capacity
Function - are you picking lighter items and moving quickly around the space, then a mobile picking ladder with casters might be your best choice. If
you're working around vehicles or loading bays, then loading steps will be the better choice. If you need people to be working a wider area at
height, or they need greater stability, look for steps with platforms
Material handling - if you're handling lighter items, a lighter, mobile aluminium ladder may be all you need but for boxes or larger items you'll need
greater stability. Steel or fibreglass steps are best for this and you may want to consider additional safety features such as gates
which stop people toppling backwards when handling goods
Safety features - if you can afford to pack as many safety features into your budget as you can, it's more than worth it because with humans anything
can happen! From simple handrails to locking casters and safety gates, they all provide that extra peace of mind in a busy area
Safety standards - European and British safety standards apply to many types of ladder. See below for addiitional information.
Ladder & Platform Safety Features
There is a wide range of safety features that you choose for your steps and platforms which will depend on how you’re working in your warehouse. These standards show that your intended equipment has been designed and assessed for safety and function and help you avoid cheaper fakes that may not be up to the job.
EN 131
EN 131 and BS EN 131 are the British and European product standards applicable to all types of portable ladders. These standards came into effect in January 2019 and replace BS2037 & BS 1129, products under these standards should no longer be available. All ladders should now be designed and manufactured to comply with EN 131 and this is the standard you should look for when purchasing a new portable ladder.
EN14183
When purchasing any kind of step stool, stair-type step or dome-type steps (including foldable versions), you need to ensure your product complies with the European design and safety standard EN 14183.
Going with a known brand can also help. Phoenix Systems stocks UK brands like Climb-IT which are UK manufactured and come with a guarantee.
Other safety features to look out for include:
Safety gates & enclosed platforms
Safety locks
Anti-slip treads
Adjustable stabilisers
Non-Slip surfaces (for platforms)
Hand rails & handle bars for stability
Weight-reactive safety steps which retract castors when body weight is applied
Further information:
The HSE in the UK provides lots of advice on ladders and their safe use. Find more information on ladders, working safely at heights & safe use of ladders here.
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