Working safely starts with making the right choice
Folding steps are often underestimated because they appear small in comparison to ladders, platforms or work platforms. For those in charge at work, however, it is crucial to recognise that a folding step is also a piece of work equipment that must be suited to the specific task at hand. When making a selection, therefore, it is not just the required working height that counts. Equally important are the duration of use, freedom of movement, the surface, the standing area, the load capacity and whether tools or materials need to be carried.
The new STABILO double folding steps 80, 135 and 135 XL are primarily designed for professional use where a compact, double-sided folding step with high stability is required. The STABILO double folding step 80 features an extra-wide and robust design with a very large upper standing surface measuring 420 × 300 mm. The 135 and 135 XL models place additional emphasis on particularly comfortable standing: their 135 mm deep premium D-steps offer the user significantly more standing space than classic, narrower steps, thereby supporting smoother, more ergonomic work during repetitive tasks. The upper standing surfaces are also generously proportioned. Whilst the STABILO double folding step 135 also offers 420 × 300 mm, the XL version, at 600 × 300 mm, provides even more standing space and additional freedom of movement.
This makes the new double folding steps ideal for tasks where users not only need to reach something briefly, but must work stably at a low height on a repeated basis. The combination of access from both sides, robust construction, comfortable step depths and generous upper standing surfaces makes them practical solutions for trades, assembly, cleaning, maintenance and industrial applications.
Folding stairs and professional steps: stable, compact and close to the work area
In addition to the new double folding steps, the other STABILO folding steps cater to different key applications. The folding stair without an extendable handrail is a robust, foldable aluminium ladder with large, profiled steps. It is suitable for recurring tasks in warehouses, workshops, building services, assembly or cleaning, where safe ascent and descent as well as a comfortable standing position are important.
The folding stair with an extendable handrail adds an extra element of safety and comfort to these benefits. The handrail aids stepping on, standing on and stepping off the folding stair and is particularly useful where users frequently climb up and down or require a greater sense of security whilst working. Both solutions are foldable, easy to transport and can be stored in a space-saving manner.
The professional step plays a special role. It combines a large platform with easy manoeuvrability, a folding design and an almost vertical support section, which allows the user to work close to the object. This is a significant advantage, particularly when working on machine casings, control cabinets, shelving, vehicles or built-in fixtures, as the user does not have to stand unnecessarily far from the work area and does not need to lean forward as much.
Working platforms for industrial applications
STABILO working platforms are standalone solutions for demanding industrial applications. The classic working platform is a lightweight aluminium working platform with slip-resistant steps and is suitable for workplaces where small height differences need to be regularly bridged, such as on machinery, assembly stations, test benches, production lines, storage areas or maintenance points.
Unlike a traditional folding steps, the working platform is designed less for space-saving storage and more for permanent availability in specific work areas. The folding step can be firmly integrated into the work process, thereby reducing the need to improvise with unsuitable tools.
The working platform with handrail and castors complements this approach by offering mobility and additional guidance when climbing. It is particularly useful in areas where the folding step is regularly required at different locations, such as along production lines, in maintenance, in workshops or during servicing work on larger components. For damp, dirty or oily working environments, working platforms with grating steps provide a suitable solution. Deep, slip-resistant grating steps and large platforms ensure a secure footing, whilst mobile versions with R13 steps and climbing bars offer additional flexibility.
Practical benefits for trades, cleaning and industry
In the trades, the benefits of compact access equipment are particularly evident when working at different locations. A fitter installing fittings, lights, sensors, cladding elements or small-scale installations needs equipment that is quick to set up, takes up little space and is nevertheless stable. A folding step, a folding stair or a professional step is often the more practical solution here than a larger ladder, provided the working height and task are suitable.
Building cleaners also benefit from stable solutions when skylights, partition walls, doors, glass surfaces or higher fixtures need to be cleaned regularly. It is not only the height reached that is crucial, but also the stability during the task. Wide steps, large platforms and slip-resistant foot caps or surfaces enable controlled movements and reduce physical strain during repetitive tasks.
In industrial maintenance and production, folding steps can also help to boost efficiency. Where inspection points, control panels, maintenance areas or small assembly stations need to be accessed regularly, having a sturdy step stool within easy reach saves time spent walking and reduces the need for unsafe makeshift solutions. At the same time, workstations can be organised more effectively, as a suitable folding step can be designated, inspected and its use explained for specific tasks.
Load capacity, ergonomics and safety margin
An important factor in the selection process is load capacity. In practice, only body weight is often taken into account. In reality, tool bags, measuring instruments, cleaning equipment, spare parts or personal protective equipment can add to the weight. The STABILO double folding steps 135 and 135 XL are therefore particularly suitable where a higher load capacity is required.
However, ergonomics is not solely a matter of durability or low weight. The key factors are whether the user can stand firmly, move safely and carry out their work without having to make unnecessary compensatory movements. Contoured steps, slip-resistant coatings, large platforms, climbing bars, handrails or grating steps fulfil different functions depending on the model. For businesses, this is not just a safety consideration, but also a factor in efficiency: those who work in a stable and ergonomically correct manner are more focused, more precise and usually work faster too.
A concise overview of regulations, inspections and training
In practical workplace settings, it remains important to recognise that folding steps and working platforms are technical work equipment and must be regularly inspected to ensure they are in good working order. Selection, use, visual inspection, periodic inspection and training should therefore be considered as an integrated whole. KRAUSE supports companies in this regard with suitable products as well as SafetyServices, such as on-site inspection services, seminars for “authorised persons”, and user and product training. In addition, all STABILO folding steps are equipped with a wosatec QR code ex-works. This allows the work equipment to be quickly recorded digitally, clearly assigned and integrated into structured inspection and documentation processes. In this way, STABILO folding steps combine safe use, practical organisation and digital support in everyday workplace operations.
Professional solutions for low working heights
The STABILO folding steps from KRAUSE are more than just simple aids for occasional tasks. They form a comprehensive range designed to meet the diverse demands of everyday professional use. The new 80, 135 and 135 XL double folding step offer stable solutions for compact applications where access is required from both sides. The folding steps support safe and comfortable working during repetitive tasks. The professional step allows for close-up working on a large platform. The working platforms are ideal for industrial applications where mobility, slip-resistant steps, handrails, castors, grating steps or R13 compliance may be crucial.
This makes STABILO folding steps suitable for trades, assembly, building cleaning, maintenance, warehouses and industry – wherever low heights need to be reached safely, efficiently and ergonomically. For decision-makers and planners, they offer the opportunity to standardise recurring work processes effectively. Safety officers benefit from clearly verifiable work equipment. And users receive access technology that is suited to the actual task, rather than just an improvised solution for “just a quick job”.