Welcome to Step Aside!
We’re a proudly South African small business dedicated to designing innovative tools that make your work easier. Starting with our flagship product, the ladder jack, our mission is to provide practical solutions that help you work smarter, not harder. Stay tuned as we continue to innovate and bring more simple & efficient tools to market.
FAQ
What is a Ladder Jack?
A Ladder Jack is an adjustable triangular bracket, placed between two parallel ladders to form a work platform at heights.
Are Ladder Jacks Safe to use?
Yes, ladder jacks are safe to use when set up correctly.
They are widely used in the USA and EU, though they are relatively new to South Africa.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has reviewed this product and its concept, ensuring it meets certain safety standards. You can find more details in their fact sheet: OSHA Ladder Jack
When installed correctly, Ladder Jacks provide a stable and secure work platform.
What tasks is a Ladder Jack suitable for?
The Ladder Jack is truly "a jack for all trades." It’s perfect for a wide range of tasks, including assorts of installations, home maintenance, and light construction work.
Unlike traditional scaffolding systems, ladder jacks are lightweight, easy to handle, and provide the same functionality with far less hassle. This portability allows you to move effortlessly from job to job without the burden of heavy, bulky equipment.
Is this compatible with the step ladders I already own?
Ladder Jacks are compatible with most ladders, except for A-frame ladders with broad rungs. As long as your ladder rungs do not exceed 40mm in width, the Ladder Jack will fit your step ladder.
It has been specifically designed to adjust to the majority of ladder sizes available in the South African market.
Can I use my own platform/Plank?
Platform Usage Guidelines
Clients are welcome to use existing scaffolding planks or platforms commonly available on the South African market, provided they are between 230mm and 380mm wide to fit the Ladder Jack.
We at Step Aside are currently designing our very own platform soon to come to market.
OSHA Guidelines
When using a Ladder Jack:
- The platform must have a minimum width of 300mm.
- Ladder Jacks must not be spaced more than 2.4m apart.
- The platform overhang must be at least 150mm and no more than 300mm on either side of the Ladder Jack setup.
- Platforms must not be joined in the middle.
- The platform must support the advertised maximum load without bending or compromising safety.
- You may not separate your extension ladder and use it as a platform.
Important Safety Notice
DO NOT EXCEED THE MAXIMUM LOAD LIMIT.
Whats all in the box?
A pair of 2mm steel, powder-coated (black) Ladder Jacks with high tensile bolts and nuts.
When can I expect to receive my Ladder Jacks?
If the store indicates availability and payment is processed, delivery will take 3–4 business days.
If the store shows the item as out of stock, you can complete a purchase order to be notified when our weekly restock arrives.