Office Stepladder

Purpose Protecting Workers from falls and other injuries associated with the improper use of an office stepladder.
Definition The step ladder is a self-supporting portable ladder that is non-adjustable in length, with flat steps and a hinged design for ease of storage.  It is intended for use by one person.
Potential Hazards

This list of potential hazards is not comprehensive. Workers are required to complete a Hazard Assessment prior to starting this task to ensure all hazards are identified and controlled.
  • Falls
  • Trips
Protective Mechanisms
  • Manufacturers’ specifications
  • Controlled work zone as per work area environment
Work Site Supervisory Responsibility Do

  • Ensure defective devices are taken out of service following the Lock-Out, Tag-Out Safe Work Practice and are replaced immediately, if necessary.

Do not

  • Allow the use of a damaged ladder.
Worker Responsibility Do

  • Check the stepladder’s load rating and be sure it can support the weight of the Worker, including any material and tools while standing on it.
  • Ensure that the stepladder is placed on a firm, level and non-slippery surface.
  • Ensure to remove slippery substances (e.g. water, grease, oily liquids, etc.) from the rungs and footwear.
  • Fully open the stepladder’s spreaders and shelf and lock it in place.
  • Position the stepladder close to the task at hand and avoid overreaching.
  • Face the stepladder when climbing up and down, and keep your body centred between the side rails.

Do not

  • Never use a stepladder that did not pass the pre-inspection requirements and / or is tagged “deficient”.
  • Do not stand, climb, or sit on the stepladder top or pail shelf.
The information in this Safe Work Practice is intended for general use and may not apply to every circumstance. It is not a definitive guide to government regulations and does not relieve any person using this Safe Work Practice from their responsibilities under any Applicable Legislation with which they must be familiar.
 Date Created Date of Last Revision Reviewed and Accepted By
12/12/19 08/19/22 Phil Fileccia, Bill Laursen, Christian Ravary, Karoly Ban Matei, Sebastian Pop

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