Introduction
This article explains the basics of stepladder selection and key safety points for sales floor staff, VMD (Visual Merchandising) personnel, and store operations managers responsible for high-place work in retail stores. Overlooking factors like load capacity and storage suitability for tasks such as rearranging displays or changing lights—those “just out of reach” situations—increases the risk of accidents and work delays. This article, based on the requirements of TCVN 7387‑1 and ISO 14122‑3, provides a selection chart based on height, showcases examples of foldable models that fit in backyards, and offers a comprehensive guide covering safety training after implementation.
Challenges and Background
Market Data
| Metric | Value / Standard | Source |
| Average Ceiling Height in Vietnamese Retail Stores | 2.75 m | LinkedIn Article on Architectural Dimensions |
| Standard Gondola Shelving Height | 1.8–2.1 m | RedSheep |
| Reduction Rate of Serious Ladder-Related Accidents (2020–2024) | ▼21% | EHS Today |
| Stepladder Use Conditions under TCVN 7387‑1:2004 | Short distance, low frequency, single-person use | TCVN 7387‑1:2004 |
| Example of Fatal Fall Accident in a Retail Warehouse | 2024/01/25 Fatal fall from an approx. 2.4 m (8 ft) stepladder | OSHA |
As the table above indicates, the average ceiling height in urban retail stores is 2.75 m. When combined with standard shelf heights of 1.8–2.1 m, a “blind spot” of 35–60 cm is created to the top shelf. To safely and efficiently address this height, a step stool with a tread height of 300 mm or less is insufficient; an A-frame stepladder (top step 600–900 mm) is necessary.
Meanwhile, although serious ladder-related accidents decreased by ▼21% from 2020 to 2024, over 200 incidents are still reported annually. Many of these are caused by improper equipment selection or poor setup angles. Given the frequency of setting up POP (Point of Purchase) displays and organizing inventory, complacency is not an option.
Risk Presentation
- Improper Equipment Selection: TCVN 7387‑1:2004 limits stepladder use to “short distance, low frequency,” but in reality, they are often used regularly for tasks like inventory management and setting up POP displays.
- Insufficient Installation Space: Storing a steel stepladder weighing over 9 kg in a backroom less than 1 m wide can block aisles and lead to near-misses.
- Tipping and Sideways Swaying: In a fatal accident reported by OSHA in 2024, a worker fell when an approximately 2.4 m stepladder swayed sideways. This highlights the importance of models with stabilizer feet or level indicators.
- Lack of Training: Many new staff members are unaware of the “three points of contact” or the 75° angle rule, accounting for about 30% of accident causes.
These risks can only be mitigated by implementing ① equipment selection, ② maintenance and inspection, and ③ safety training as an integrated trio. The next chapter will detail how to select stepladder specifications tailored to store conditions and specific safety measures.
Sources: EHS Today / RedSheep / OSHA / LinkedIn Article on Architectural Dimensions / TCVN 7387‑1:2004
Product and Service Introduction
Features
Hasegawa’s stepladder series for retail stores, “Ashigaru Retail-Pro,” is an A-frame aluminum stepladder that combines lightness, thinness, and safety. Despite having a top step height of 0.8 m, it weighs only 4.6 kg, allowing female staff to carry it with one hand. When folded, it is only 67 mm thick, fitting into the gaps between fixtures in the backroom.
- Anti-Slip Deep Steps: The 65 mm wide ribbed steps increase the foot contact area by approximately 1.8 times, ensuring stability even when wearing heels or leather shoes.
- Double-Locking Hinge: An automatic locking mechanism that maintains a 75° opening angle and a manual safety bar reduce “sideways swaying,” a major cause of stepladder accidents, by 70%.
- Tool Tray & Magnetic Holder: The top plate features a tray that can hold up to 3 kg and a side magnetic bar, allowing for two-handed work while temporarily placing POP displays or impact drivers.
- Optional Handrails (Tool-Rail): Dual handrails, recommended by ISO 14122‑3, can be added with a single touch. Even after installation, the folded thickness remains within 90 mm.
- Conductivity-Resistant FRP Model: For sites where the risk of electric shock during lighting fixture replacement must be avoided, an FRP (Fiber-Reinforced Plastic) side rail version with an insulation resistance of 30 kV/30 cm is also available.
All models clear the “Type I (150 kg)” load capacity classification of TCVN 7387‑1:2004 and are guaranteed to have a leg length error of ±2 mm in the final inspection. A one-year post-purchase service includes free inspection stickers and complimentary replacement of anti-slip caps, helping to maintain safety while keeping maintenance costs down.
Hasegawa’s Reliability
Quality Control & Certifications
Our headquarters and the Binh Duong factory in Vietnam have acquired dual certification for ISO 9001:2015 (Quality) and ISO 45001:2018 (Occupational Health and Safety), maintaining a process non-conformance rate below 0.05% through monthly external audits. For main components, we use 6063-T6 aluminum alloy that conforms to JIS S 1121 “Portable ladders,” with a tensile strength of 230 MPa, exceeding the standard value by 18%. All products are affixed with a QC sticker with a serial number, and the following six items are 100% inspected before shipment:
- Opening angle and leg length error (±2 mm)
- Step load test (150 kg × 10,000 cycles)
- Hinge durability (20,000 opening/closing cycles)
- Anti-slip cap abrasion test (ASTM D1630)
- Surface anodized film thickness measurement (JIS H 8602)
- Dielectric strength test (30 kV/30 cm, FRP models only)
Qualified products come with a 5-year structural warranty and include a safety education manual (in Japanese, English, and Vietnamese) based on TCVN 7387‑1.
Custom Orders & Support System
- 3D Custom Service: Enter your ceiling height and aisle width online, and we will propose optimal dimensions within 48 hours, with an average delivery time of 14 days.
- Color Options: In addition to the standard silver, 5 powder-coated colors (RoHS compliant) are available to match your brand colors.
- Safety Patrol Inspections: Conducted twice a year per store, with a checklist and photo-documented report provided.
- Staff Training Sessions: A total of 1,200 people have completed our e-learning and on-site practical training.
- 10-Year Spare Parts Supply Guarantee: We ship anti-slip caps and hinges on the same day.
- 24-Hour Hotline: In the event of an accident, we provide a free loaner replacement for up to 7 days.
Thanks to this system, client stores have achieved four consecutive years of zero lost-time incidents originating from stepladders.
Conclusion
In urban retail stores with an average ceiling height of 2.75 m and shelf height of 2.1 m, a high-place “blind spot” of up to 60 cm exists. This article has outlined the decision-making criteria for selecting a stepladder to safely and efficiently eliminate that blind spot. Based on the provisions of TCVN 7387‑1 and ISO 14122‑3, and accident data that persists despite a 21% reduction, we introduced five safety mechanisms centered on the lightweight and slim Ashigaru Retail-Pro. Furthermore, we presented Hasegawa’s unique support system, including quality control compliant with ISO 9001/45001, biannual patrol inspections, and a 10-year parts supply guarantee. By promoting equipment selection, maintenance and inspection, and safety training as an integrated trio, you can enhance both workplace productivity and staff peace of mind simultaneously.