A step ladder is self-supporting. The A-frame stands on its own, so you don't need a wall to lean it against. That makes it the go-to for free-standing work at lower levels: changing a light, reaching a shelf, work in the middle of a room. Its limits are height and the risk of over-reaching; a step ladder is for lower-level, shorter-duration tasks, not for gaining significant height or working from the top step.
Ladders · Selection
Which ladder do you need? Step, extension or platform
The wrong ladder is a job made harder and a risk taken needlessly. Step, extension and platform ladders each do a different job, and choosing the right one for the height, the task and the surface is the first step to working safely at height. Here is how to match the ladder to the work.
Choose a step ladder for lower-level, free-standing work where there is nothing to lean against, the classic A-frame for jobs up to a few metres. Choose an extension ladder to reach height against a structure, a wall, gutter or roof, where you need to get up and along a solid surface. Choose a platform ladder (or podium step) when you need to stand and work at height with both hands and better stability, with a proper standing platform and often a handrail, ideal for tasks that take time. Match the choice to the working height, whether there's something to lean against, and how stable and hands-free you need to be. And always choose a ladder rated for the job, see EN 131 explained.
Step Step ladders for lower, self-supporting work
Extension Extension ladders for height against a structure
Platform Platform ladders for standing and working safely
Choose Choosing by height, task and stability
Matching the ladder to the job
Step, extension and platform ladders
An extension ladder is a leaning ladder that extends to reach height against a solid structure, up to a gutter, a wall, a roofline. It's how you gain real height, but it must lean against something sound at the correct angle, be footed securely, and ideally be secured at the top. It's for access and shorter tasks at height, not for standing and working for long periods, because you have only the rungs to stand on and one hand is often holding on.
- A proper standing platform to stand on, rather than a rung.
- Often a handrail or guardrail for stability and confidence.
- Both hands free to work, with a stable base.
- Ideal for tasks that take time at height, assembly, wiring, finishing.
A platform ladder or podium step is the safer choice whenever the work at height takes more than a moment, because it gives a stable place to stand and work hands-free.
Selection
How to choose
Work through three questions: how high is the work, is there a solid structure to lean against, and do you need to stand and work with both hands for a while? Low and free-standing points to a step ladder; height against a structure to an extension ladder; standing work at height to a platform ladder. Then make sure the ladder is rated for the use, see EN 131 explained, and, for electrical work, the right material (see fibreglass or aluminium). Pat O Brien Safety supplies the full ladders and platforms range across Ireland.
Frequently asked questions
Ladder selection questions
What is the difference between a step ladder and a platform ladder?
A step ladder is a self-supporting A-frame for lower-level, free-standing work, where you stand on the steps. A platform ladder adds a proper standing platform, and often a handrail, so you can stand and work hands-free with better stability, better for tasks at height that take time.
When should I use an extension ladder?
Use an extension ladder to reach height against a solid structure, a wall, gutter or roofline, where you need access up and along a surface. It must lean against something sound at the correct angle, be footed securely, and ideally be secured at the top. It's for access, not prolonged standing work.
Which ladder is safest for working at height for a while?
A platform ladder or podium step, because it gives you a proper standing platform, often a handrail, and both hands free with a stable base. For tasks at height that take more than a moment, it's safer than standing on the rungs of a step or extension ladder.
Pat O Brien Safety
Get the right ladder from Pat O Brien Safety
Pat O Brien Safety supplies ladders, steps, platforms and access equipment for trade and industry across Ireland, alongside health and safety training.
Browse the ladders and platforms range, or talk to us about the right ladder rating and type for your work.