Stehleitern

Stehleitern, or step ladders, are portable, self-supporting ladders consisting of two side rails connected by a series of rungs. They are designed to stand on their own without a wall contact and are used for tasks requiring access to moderate heights, such as painting, cleaning, and stock retrieval. A folding spreader mechanism locks the ladder in the open position, providing a stable base, while non-slip feet improve footing on smooth floors. Most models can be folded for compact storage.

Materials include aluminum, fiberglass, and wood. Aluminum models are lightweight and durable; fiberglass models are non-conductive and preferred for electrical work; wooden models are traditional but heavier and can suffer from moisture damage. Sizes vary from compact models around 0.8 m tall to larger ones that give standing heights roughly between 2 and 3.5 meters.

Standards and safety: In many markets, stehleitern are regulated by portable ladder standards such as EN 131-1 (general requirements) and EN 131-2 (step ladders). Units are labeled with the maximum safe working load and must include secure spreaders and slip-resistant feet. Safety guidelines advise maintaining three points of contact, not standing on the topmost steps, and avoiding use on uneven or slippery surfaces or when carrying large items.

Maintenance: Inspect before use for bent rails, cracks, loose joints, missing feet, or degraded rungs. Clean away oil and debris, and store in a dry place. Replace any ladder showing structural damage or excessive wear.