Step stools are portable stools that allow people to access items that are above their reach. They can provide a safe platform that is portable and lightweight.
Workplace solutions and adjustments
Double sided step ladders should only be used in a fully open ‘A’ frame position with the side braces and cross braces used for stability. Care must be taken when using single sided step stools, ensuring the top of the steps is supported and loads are carried appropriately. Some step stools have a working platform, which may have a handrail.
The selection and safe use of step stools should comply with Australian Standards.
When using step stools the following safety principles that should be considered include:
- all step stools should be placed on a secure footing
- the step stool should be placed close to the work area to prevent over reaching
- appropriate slip resistant footwear should be worn by the user.
References
Backsafe Australia 2008, Access Equipment, Backsafe Australia, Willetton, viewed 26 August 2011, http://www.backsafe-australia.com.au/products/documents/access-equip/Sect03-AccessEquipment.pdf.
Independent Living Centre NSW 2011, Wedo Safety Step Stool, Independent Living Centre NSW, Sydney, viewed, 26 August 2011, http://www.ilcnsw.asn.au/items/2441.
Standards Australia/Standards New Zealand 2000, Australian/New Zealand Standard- Portable ladders, Part 5: Selection, safe use and care, Standards Australia/Standards New Zealand, Sydney.
UNSW Occupational Health and Safety 2010, Safe manual handling tool: To assist in reducing manual handling risks in the workplace, The University of New South Wales, Sydney, viewed 26 August 2011, http://www.ohs.unsw.edu.au/ohs_policies/guides/Guide%20to%20safe%20manual%20handling(2).pdf.