Not A Step – Patented Ladder Safety Device

The Opportunity

Not A Step is a patented ladder safety device that eliminates OSHA top cited misuse while unlocking a high margin accessory category. Not A Step is protected by U.S. Design Patent D1,079,060 S and U.S. Utility Patent 12,467,316 B1. Patent coverage includes the top cap cover, step guard, integrated tool holders, and attachment mechanism. This is a turnkey opportunity to expand your line without R&D cost.

The Business Case

Market: 1.2B dollar U.S. ladder market; 60M plus in accessories.
Proven demand: Competing products sell 10K plus units annually with no patent protection and the market is not tapped.
Retail potential: MSRP 50 to 75 dollars; retailer margin 40 to 60 percent.

Untapped Demand and Cost of Inaction

OSHA data shows thousands of ladder injuries each year and fatalities tied to top cap misuse. Average claims exceed $60K per incident, while fines for fatalities run $50K plus with indirect costs far higher. The industry cannot ignore these risks, and Not A Step is one of the few solutions designed to address them.

Key Advantages

✔ Patent exclusivity

U.S. design patent protects against copycats and knockoffs, securing your investment.

✔ Universal fit

Works with most standard ladders. Simple, lightweight, cost effective manufacturing.

✔ OSHA alignment

Addresses one of the most frequently cited workplace safety violations.

Story Behind the Invention

Dr. Calvin Vernon, CSP is a safety and operations leader with more than 15 years of experience in manufacturing, construction, and government sectors. As a Process Engineering Manager and OSHA Special Government Employee, he has delivered multi million dollar savings through process innovation, advised Fortune 500 firms on compliance, and contributed to national safety standards.

The idea for Not A Step came directly from his work on job sites. OSHA’s Top 10 violations consistently include misuse of the ladder top cap. Despite training and signage, the unsafe practice persisted and led to thousands of injuries and fatalities. Calvin knew a physical intervention was needed.

Not A Step is the result. It is a patented device that removes the unsafe option while adding value for workers by holding tools, fasteners, and supplies. It reflects Calvin’s philosophy that true safety innovation is not just about compliance but about making the right choice the easiest choice.

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