Is it safe to place a stepladder on boxes or barrels for additional height?

Placing a stepladder on boxes or barrels is unsafe due to the heightened risk of instability and potential collapse. Ladders are designed to be used on stable, level surfaces to ensure that they can support the weight of the user and any tools or materials being handled safely. By using uneven or makeshift platforms, such as boxes or barrels, you significantly increase the chance of the ladder tipping or sliding, which can lead to severe falls and injuries.

Safety guidelines emphasize the importance of adhering to manufacturer instructions and using ladders only on solid ground. This principle is in place to protect users from accidents that can occur when safety measures are compromised by improper ladder setups. Therefore, the choice indicating that it is unsafe to place stepladders on unstable surfaces reflects the essential safety protocols necessary for ladder use.