Step Ladders

Step ladders, also known as platform or A-frame ladders, are essential pieces of equipment, defined by their self-supporting structure and typically featuring a top platform or rail for secure standing and tool support. Constructed commonly from aluminium or fibreglass, they offer robust support for industrial and commercial tasks in environments across Singapore. The maximum weight capacity is rigorously tested and often specified by safety standards, and these ladders are available in varying heights and number of steps to suit diverse vertical access requirements.

Types of Step Ladders

Step ladders are typically categorised based on their structural design, which dictates their functionality, and the material they are constructed from, which determines their durability and electrical safety rating.

Based on Design

• Platform Step Ladders: These feature a large, non-slip top standing area, providing a secure, elevated workspace for extended tasks.
• Swingback Step Ladders: These are traditional, A-frame step ladders that require a back section to open and lock into place for stability, offering quick, simple access for tasks.

Based on Material

• Aluminium: Lightweight, durable, and highly portable, aluminium step ladders are the most common choice for general-purpose, non-electrical work due to their ease of handling.
• Fibreglass: Preferred for electrical work, fibreglass step ladders offer non-conductive properties, enhancing user safety in industrial and high-risk environments.

Key Features and Benefits of Step Ladders

• Non-Slip Treads and Platforms: Wider, deeper, and serrated anti-slip surfaces enhance user footing and reduce fall risks.
• Safety Handrails: High guardrails or handrails provide secure three-point contact. Handrails are especially beneficial on tall step ladders and platform ladders, significantly increasing user balance and safety.
• Locking Mechanisms: Robust locking devices prevent accidental folding during use, enhancing safety.
• Integrated Tool Trays: Convenient holders keep tools at hand, reducing the need to climb with equipment or make multiple trips.
• Lightweight and Portable: Enables ease of transportation within facilities, especially for folding and swingback models.
• High Load Capacities: Tested for typical industrial ratings around 150 kg combined user and tool weight.

Platform Step Ladder Applications

The stability and extended workspace provided by the platform step ladder design make it indispensable across many professional sectors, enabling safe and efficient work at height throughout Singapore.

• Residential: For residential contractors and electricians, step ladders made from fibreglass are crucial for conducting installations and maintenance tasks safely while mitigating electrical risk.
• Commercial and Retail Settings: Folding platform ladder models are ideally suited for stock retrieval, high-level merchandising, and shelf stacking in retail environments, offering portability and secure height access.
• Construction and Renovation: Durable, heavy-duty platform ladders are essential on construction sites for tasks like painting, plastering, or ceiling fitting, where the wide platform allows for comfortable, long-duration work.
• Facilities Management: Maintenance teams utilise compact platform ladders for routine checks, bulb replacement, and repairs within office buildings and complexes, balancing easy manoeuvrability with stability during work.

How to Choose a Step Ladder

Selecting the appropriate step ladder is crucial for industrial workplace safety. Professionals must assess the working environment and task requirements against key safety specifications:

• Assess Treads and Platform: Prioritise models featuring wide, deep, non-slip treads and a stable platform step ladder surface (if applicable) to maximise foot grip during extended use.
• Evaluate Safety Rails: For access requiring significant height, select platform ladders with high safety handrails and guardrails to ensure stable three-point contact for the user.
• Verify Locking System: Always ensure the robust mechanism on a portable or folding platform ladder securely locks the frame open.
• Consider Integrated Storage: Maximise efficiency and reduce the risk of drops by choosing ladders equipped with integrated tool trays or buckets to keep components close at hand.
• Check Certification and Material: Verify compliance with international safety criteria like EN 131 and choose the correct material, fibreglass for safe electrical tasks or aluminium for general use.

Trusted Platform Step Ladder Supplier in Singapore

RS offers everything from simple step ladders and lightweight folding platform ladder models to industrial-grade platform ladders designed for heavy duty use.

Explore our catalogue to find step ladders from respected brands like Zarges, FIMM, and our very own RS PRO. Besides step ladders, we also carry a comprehensive range of vertical access equipment like scaffolding and work platforms, telescopic ladders, extension ladders, and more. To find out more about our delivery options and fees, please visit our delivery page.