Step Ladder Safety: Are You Standing Too High?

When it comes to working at height, step ladders are one of the most commonly used access tools across construction, maintenance, facilities management, and beyond. But many users are unaware of one crucial detail that could compromise their safety: which tread you're allowed to stand on.

Surprised? You’re not alone.

The Top Tread Trap: What You Need to Know

According to The Ladder Association’s Code of Practice, users should never stand on the top three treads of a step ladder unless it has a built-in platform and knee rail (also known as a safety bar).

Standing too high not only puts the user at risk of losing balance or overreaching but also goes against industry-recognised safe working practices. It limits stability, reduces the user’s centre of gravity, and increases the chance of serious injury from a fall.

So, How High Can You Go?

Here’s a general rule of thumb based on Ladder Association guidelines:

Without a platform and safety bar:
 You should not stand above the third tread from the top.
With a platform and safety bar (like MagnaStep Platform or Widestep models):
 You can safely stand on the platform - as it provides the required support and guardrail for working at height.

Remember: The top tread of a step ladder or the highest part is never a standing surface - it’s there for structural integrity, not your boots!

Ladder Association Guidance on the right way and wrong way to use a step ladder

Safe Step Ladder Options from Lyte

At Lyte Ladders, safety is at the heart of everything we build. That’s why we design our step ladders to not only meet but exceed the EN131 Professional standard.

Here’s how our MagnaStep range supports safer use of step ladders:

Magnetic Tool Tray: Reduces dropped-object incidents by keeping tools and fixing securely within reach
Greater Tread Pitch (295mm): Increases working height without increasing step count, reducing strain on users
Repairable Designs – Extend lifespan and ensure continued safety through maintenance
Green Aluminium Treads – Lower-carbon, durable materials
Made in the UK – Ensures consistent manufacturing and quality control
Platform Step Ladders – Provide a large, flat working surface with knee bar protection
Widestep Ladders – Offer extra-wide platforms and 360° working access due to the built-in safety bar and handrails.

Final Tip: Training Matters

We always recommend that step ladder users complete a certified training course, like those offered by The Ladder Association, to ensure they’re aware of how to use ladders safely, check for faults, and understand best practice.

For more information, visit:
🔗 www.ladderassociation.org.uk

Need Advice on Choosing the Right Step Ladder?

Speak to our team about selecting the safest, most appropriate solution for your business:
t. 01792 796 666

e. sales@lyteladders.co.uk

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Supporting National Foodbank Day

September 5, 2025

At Lyte Ladders & Towers, we believe sustainability isn’t just about reducing environmental impact, it’s also about strengthening the communities where we live and work. That’s why on Friday 5th September 2025, we were proud to support National Foodbank Day by collecting donations for Swansea Foodbank . Why National Foodbank Day Matters Across the UK, foodbanks play a vital role in supporting families and individuals facing hardship. National Foodbank Day shines a spotlight on this work, raising awareness of the growing demand for foodbank services and encouraging businesses and communities to take action. In Swansea, the foodbank is part of the Trussell Trust network, providing emergency food parcels to those in crisis. Their work goes beyond just food, they also offer advice, support, and practical help to people navigating difficult times. Lyte’s Contribution As a UK manufacturer with deep roots in South Wales, we’re proud to give back to our local community. This year, our team came together to collect donations of non-perishable food, toiletries, and essential household items for Swansea Foodbank. Every contribution helps, from tinned goods and cereals to hygiene products, and we are grateful to our colleagues for showing such generosity. ESG in Action Supporting Swansea Foodbank is part of our wider commitment to Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) responsibility. While much of our ESG focus is on reducing environmental impact through initiatives like recycled aluminium and solar energy, we are equally committed to the “social” pillar: Supporting local charities and causes Promoting wellbeing within our workforce Giving back to the community where we manufacture How You Can Help If you’d like to support Swansea Foodbank or learn more about their work, please visit: https://swansea.foodbank.org.uk Together, we can make a difference for those who need it most. National Foodbank Day is a reminder that sustainability is about people as much as it is about products. At Lyte, we’re proud to stand alongside Swansea Foodbank and support the vital role they play in our community. We’d like to thank our team for their generosity and encourage others to consider how they can support foodbanks locally, today and every day.