Whether you work in an office, on a construction site or at a shipping facility, you probably have used a step stool to reach places or objects slightly above your head. After all, reaching for an extension ladder or even a six-foot step ladder might not make much sense, as you may not have the clearance to use taller ladders.
Step stools are excellent height boosters for completing small work-related tasks or those in confined spaces. According to Emory University, step stools have flat steps and even might feature side rails but are no taller than 32 inches. If you do not use a step stool correctly, though, it can be quite dangerous.
Step stool placement
Before climbing onto any ladder, it is critical to place the ladder on a solid, dry and even surface. The same is true for step stools, but their small stature might encourage you to take unnecessary and unreasonable risks. Still, if your stool does not have a solid foundation, you have an increased probability of falling from the stool and sustaining a life-altering injury.
Step stool usage
With most step stools, it is acceptable to stand on the top step. This is unlike other types of ladders, of course, where stepping on the highest rung can be exceedingly risky. Nevertheless, when you stand on top of a step stool, you must be sure you can brace yourself with some support. If you cannot or do not, you might lose your balance and fall off the stool.
While you certainly can take steps to keep yourself safe when working on a step stool, you may not be able to eliminate all risks. Ultimately, if you suffer an on-the-job injury, pursuing financial compensation can be important.
