Step ladders are essential in office environments. Especially if you store stationery, client files and document folders at height. But you need to choose your ladder carefully. Employers are obliged to comply with Work at Height Regulations 2005 in the UK, irrespective of how high employees need to climb to perform their daily tasks and you need to have the right equipment for the job.

Fortunately, office step ladders come in many sizes and designs to suit all professional working environments and, in this guide to the best step ladders for the office, we’ll help you find the perfect set for your workplace.

Best Office Step Ladder Categories

When choosing a step ladder for your office, you should look for EN131 or EN14183 certification. EN131 applies to all portable steps and ladders, while EN14183 applies to step stools. Any office ladders bearing these certifications are manufactured and tested to European safety standards so, you can use them with confidence in any professional setting.

There are five main options to choose from in the office step ladder category. These include:

  • Folding Step Ladders: As the name suggests, these ladders fold neatly for storage when not in use, so they are ideal for smaller office spaces. They generally have two, three or four treads, although there are models with six steps and more for offices in taller buildings.
  • Handy Steps: Handy steps remain a popular choice for busy office environments because, well, they’re handy! Many come on wheels for portability and feature handrails to provide extra support when reaching something on the top shelf.
  • Kicks Steps: Kick steps are ideal for offices where storage space is limited as they slot under desks with ease. Thanks to their sturdy construction, they can support loads of up to 150kgs, with many models mobile on caster wheels.
  • Step Stools: A cost-effective solution for home offices and smaller working environments, step stools are lightweight, practical, and provide just the right height to reach top shelves. Mostly constructed from durable plastic, they are highly portable, easy to clean, and can support loads of up to 260kg.
  • Step-Ups: Step-up ladders are just that, a step-up from ground level. While you can get models with more than one step, they generally have one tread to give you an extra lift of anywhere between 25cm and 50cm.

Best Office Step Ladders 2021

Different office steps offer various benefits. We’ve compiled our list of the best office ladders 2021 based on our best-sellers. We’re confident that you’ll find the perfect pair for your office right here:

Folding Office Steps With Foam Handle

Stylish, lightweight, and approved to EN14183, these folding steps are perfect for office environments. They feature a tubular steel framework, non-slip feet for stability on all floors and a foam covered handle, which serves as a support when reaching up high and acts as a backrest when sitting on the top step. When folded, this office ladder is just 90mm wide, allowing storage in any stock cupboard or even next to a desk.

Fort Buttress Office Steps

Ideal for larger office spaces, Fort Buttress Office Steps are available with or without a support handle. They come in four different sizes. Made from durable steel, they are slightly more industrial-looking than folding steps. But, they come with a long list of benefits including, a tilt-n-pull design, durable wheels and EN14183 certification. This is one of the best office step ladders available. 

Plastic Round Step Stool

If you are looking for lightweight, durable office steps, this round plastic step stool could be a perfect choice. Made from high-density polypropylene, it features a heavy-duty rubber bumper for stability on all floor surfaces. It has three retractable spring-loaded castor wheels for manoeuvrability. You can slide it across the floor with your foot, so there’s no need for bending or heavy lifting, and slot it under any desk for storage when not in use. A perfect step ladder for any office.

Plastic Handy Steps

Handy steps are ideal for professional office environments and medical receptions. Made from medium-density polyethene, they are highly durable and have an impressive weight load capacity of 260kg. You can wash them down with detergent or sanitiser to keep them hygienically clean, and you can slot them under your desk or reception counter when not in use. EN14183 compliant, they have anti-slip strips on each step to prevent slipping and feature integrated carry handles for easy lifting. These office steps come in various colours and sizes, and they will last for years and years. 

Steel Step Up Stool

If all you need is a little boost, this Steel Step Up Stool could be the best choice for your office. It’s durable, it has a non-slip rubber surface, and it has grooved plastic feet to prevent slipping. You can purchase this model with one or two steps and slip it under any desk for storage when not in use. Ideal for home offices and smaller working environments. This step-up stool is EN14183 compliant and can support up to 150kg. Proof that good things come in small packages; it offers exceptional value for money and is deserving of its spot on the best office step ladders money can buy.

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