Kick Stools
Kick stools and step stools are a convenient addition to any home or office. They make it easy to reach high shelves and are available in lightweight polypropylene or heavy-duty metal. For more information and guidance when choosing equipment to reach the height, visit our comprehensive guide.
What are kick stools?
Kick stools, compact and sturdy, are crafted to facilitate secure and effortless reach to items beyond your natural grasp.
Why kick stools?
Kick stools are great for getting up to those low shelves or cabinets without having to use a ladder. They're really handy for getting in and out of reach when you need to. And you can easily stash them away when you're not using them.
When are kick stools used
Ideal for various settings including kitchens, garages, offices, retail stores, classrooms, healthcare facilities, and homes, these stools provide a stable platform for accessing high shelves or cabinets. By facilitating easy access to items, kick stools enhance productivity, reduce the risk of accidents, and promote independence. Whether retrieving ingredients in the kitchen, organizing merchandise in a store, or accessing medical supplies in a healthcare facility, kick stools are versatile tools that make everyday tasks safer and more efficient. They're not intended to replace a ladder and should be used sensibly to lift lightweight items without straining to reach.
Kick stool types
The terms kick stool and step stool are often used interchangeably, however there is a difference between the two.
Kick stools are characterised by four spring-loaded castors which enable you to easily transport it. The wheels are designed to drop once weight is applied to ensure maximum safety when using.
Step stools usually have a larger platform and a folding mechanism, so they're great if you need to reach higher things. However, they might not be as compact or easy to store as kick stools. They have a more rudimentary design: comprised of plastic, they closely resemble a small step and must be carried by hand from place to place due to their four sturdy and unmovable legs.
Considerations when choosing a kick stool
• Safety - Kick stools are designed for low-risk lifting tasks at low heights and for short periods. A risk assessment should be conducted of the space to ensure that it is a kick stool and not a step ladder that's needed.
• Height: Choose a kick stool that offers the appropriate height to reach your desired objects safely. Ensure it provides stability, with sturdy construction and non-slip surfaces to prevent accidents.
• Footwear - A kick stool should be used in the correct surroundings and should not be used when wearing heels or an item of clothing that may get caught and cause a fall.
We want to make it easy for you, so here are some key terms that will help you understand the range and applications a little better.
What does the standard EN 14183:2003 mean?
The European Standard EN 14183:2003 outlines the specifications for step stools, stair-type steps, and dome-type step stools. It covers various aspects including design features, dimensions, materials, performance criteria, testing procedures, and the declaration of suitability for use.
Let's break it down...
• EN - This is the current applicable standard across Europe
• 14183 - This is the assigned legislation number
• 2003 - This is the year the safety standard for kick stools was updated
FAQs
Are kick stools safe?
If you use kick stools correctly, they're a great way to reach things that are just out of reach. They're designed for low-risk use, but it's always a good idea to do a risk assessment to make sure you're following the best practices.
Is a kick stool working at a height?
The stable and low height design of a kick stool means you don't need to do any training before you start using it.
Do kick stools need to be inspected?
Kick stools are safer than ladders as they are designed to remain stable when weight is applied. To ensure safety, it's important to follow the company's policies and perform regular checks. Make sure there are no visible faults that could lead to injury, such as checking that the rubber trim is intact for stability and ensuring that the spring-loaded castors are in good working order before use. If you need to replace the castors, Cromwell stocks them to keep your kick stools in perfect working order.
