Yes, there are step ladders specifically designed for use leaning against a wall, or other vertical surfaces.
Standard step ladders are self-supporting and designed only to be used in the fully open position with spreaders locked. They are not designed to be used against a wall or other surfaces; this would classify misuse, and non-compliance with safety standards.
Step ladders that can be used in a leaning position are designed and engineered for this purpose. These specific leaning ladders are manufactured and tested to applicable ANSI A14 standards and are OSHA compliant.
The WERNER® LEANSAFE® ladder is specifically constructed for leaning use, tested to ANSI performance requirements, clearly labeled for correct configuration, and constructed with features that support OSHA’s regulations for safe ladder use.
While standard step ladders cannot be used in a leaned position; LEANSAFE® provides a compliant alternative.
The WERNER LEANSAFE® ladder is one of the only purpose-built leaning ladders on the market that is engineered to meet these requirements. It is designed and tested to the ANSI A14 ladder standards, and in compliance with OSHA. Unlike a traditional step ladder, which is prohibited from being leaned against a wall, the LEANSAFE® ladder is explicitly constructed to function safely as a leaning ladder, step ladder, and for some models, a straight ladder, while remaining compliant.
From a construction and durability standpoint, LEANSAFE® ladders also incorporate high visibility safety cues and structural enhancements that support OSHA aligned safe use. Internal safety and training documents emphasize the importance of using the correct ladder for the job and clearly identifying it on the job site. The LEANSAFE® design supports this with two color rails, bright LEANSAFE® branding, and configuration labels that help prevent misuse. These identifiers reduce confusion between a standard step ladder and a leaning approved model, supporting safer, more compliant decision making onsite.
The LEANSAFE® L6200 series sell sheet outlines additional relevant construction features such as nonmarring bumper pads, full aluminum bracing, slip resistant TractionTred® steps, and nonconductive fiberglass rails for electrical environments. All of these align with expectations for ladder stability, footing, electrical safety, and material strength. These features help ensure that the ladder not only meets specific ANSI testing criteria but also supports safe, compliant behaviors required in OSHA inspections.
Bottom line: If you need a leaning ladder that meets compliance regulations, the WERNER LEANSAFE® is the professional solution engineered for safe leaning applications on real jobsites.
