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. 

• 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. 

Browse steps and ladders in the Phoenix Systems store

• 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 additional information.

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. 

Phoenix Systems are experts in warehouse and interiors design and fit-outs.  If you're looking for more advice on how to ensure your warehouse or business unit is a safe and productive space to work in, speak to the team today: 01903 765366 or find out more here.