3
USER INSTRUCTIONS
Instruction shall be supplied with each step stool to which they relate.
Before use
a) Ensure that you are fit enough to use a step stool. Certain medical conditions or
medication, alcohol or drug abuse could make step stool use unsafe;
b) When transporting step stools on roof bars or in a truck, ensure they are suitably
placed to prevent damage;
c) Inspect the step stool after delivery and before first use to confirm condition and
operation of all parts;
d) Visually check the step stool is not damaged and is safe to use at the start of each
working day when the step stool is to be used;
e) For professional users regular periodic inspection is required;
f) Ensure the step stool is suitable for the task;
g) do not use a damaged step stool;
h) Remove any contamination from the step stool, such as wet paint, mud, oil or snow;
i) Before using a step stool at work, a risk assessment should be carried out
respecting the legislation in the country of use.
Positioning and erecting the step stool
a) Step stool shall be erected at the correct position, such as the correct angle for a
leaning step stool (angle of inclination
approximately 1:4) with the rungs or treads
level and complete opening of a step stool;
b) Locking devices, if fitted, shall be fully secured before use;
c) Step stool shall be on an even, level and unmoveable base;
d) Leaning step stool should lean against a flat non-fragile surface and should be
secured before use, e.g. tied or use of a suitable stability device;
e) Step stool shall never be repositioned from above;
f) When positioning the step stool take into account risk of collision with the step stool
e.g. from pedestrians, vehicles or doors. Secure doors (not fire exists) and windows
where possible in the work area;
g) Identify any electrical risks in the work area, such as overhead lines or other
exposed electrical equipment;
h) Step stool shall be stood on its feet, not the rungs or steps;
i) Step stools shall not be positioned on slippery surfaces (such as ice, shiny surfaces
or significantly contaminated solid surfaces) unless additional effective measures are
taken to prevent the step stool slipping or ensuring contaminated surfaces are
sufficiently clean.
Using the step stool
a) Do not exceed the maximum total load for the type of step stool;
b) Do not overreach; user should keep their belt buckle (navel) inside the stiles and
both feet on the same step/rung throughout the task;
c) Do not step off a leaning step stool at a higher level without additional security, such
a staying off or use of a suitable stability device;
