Introduction
If you're confused about the difference between podiums and podium steps, you're not alone! Podiums and podium steps are often used interchangeably, but there are some key differences between the two. In this blog post, we'll take an in-depth look at both podiums and podium steps, exploring their differences and the best uses for each.
We'll start with a quick overview of podiums and podium steps, then we'll discuss the different types available, their benefits and drawbacks, and finally, which one might be the best fit for your needs. So, whether you're looking to upgrade your event setup or just want to know more about the differences between podiums and podium steps, this blog post has you covered.
What is a podium step?
In basic terms a podium step is a low-level work platform with a maximum height of 2.5m and side protection. When purchasing a podium step it is important to ensure that it is certified to BS8620, which is the most recent safety specification for podium steps. More information on this standard and the changes from PAS 250 can be found in our blog post; The Importance of BS8620 For Podium Steps.
Why are podium steps so popular?
As health and safety progresses, we have seen an increase in the demand for podium steps on site for low level jobs. When working at height, all work that takes place above ground level is classified as working at height and companies have started to switch to podium steps over hop ups and work platforms simply due to the edge protection that podiums offer. The guardrails on a podium step are an extra measure to reduce the possibility of injury by workers falling from platforms.
What are the benefits / disadvantages of podium steps?
The main benefit of a podium step vs other means of low level access is as we’ve discussed above, the user is in an enclosed platform when working at height to reduce risk of injury from falls. When working for longer periods of time podium steps are the ideal solution for this reason. A range of our Podium steps also have castors and fold flat for storage and transportation. Podiums can also be a versatile solution and have multiple platform heights, for more information on this check out the Stepfold range from Eurotowers.
The only disadvantage of podium steps is that they are for low level access only, therefore if you require a platform height above 2.5m
What is a podium step ladder?
A podium step ladder is a standard step ladder with a wider, more comfortable platform to assist users when working at height for longer periods of time. As far as safety is concerned, there are also ranges of podium step ladders that also have an enclosed platform to again minimise the risk of falling when working at height. These ranges include the Little Giant Safety Cage Step and Boss Teleguard. Our range of podium step ladders allow users to reach upto 3.5m, which is an added benefit of a podium step ladder over a podium step.
Which product should I choose?
When it comes to any work at height, ensure a risk assessment has been completed to analyse potential risks. Once this is complete you should have calculated the height that is required to be reached and the duration of the task in hand. Once you have this information the equipment you should choose should become clear. If you’re working at a low level for a short period of time, a hop up or work platform will suffice. If you’re working for a longer period of time a podium step ladder or podium step is the best choice, take into account the space you have and the height you need to reach, remember a podium step will only allow you access a platform height of 2.5m but a podium step ladder allows heights up to 3.5m.
If you are working for longer periods of time over the height of 3.5m it, then may be worth considering an enclosed work platform or mobile tower system.
Futher information
If you require any further information on choosing the right equipment for the job or still have any questions regarding working at height, get in touch with our expert team. We can be contacted on 01204 590 232 or via our contact form on our website.