A case documented in Portugal shows a telescopic loader with a provisionally attached ladder as a means of access to height – a dangerous improvisation that violates fundamental workplace safety regulations. For such applications, approved work platforms are required, such as those offered by Haulotte, JLG or Genie as attachments for telescopic loaders. The incident makes it clear: time pressure and lack of availability of suitable equipment repeatedly lead to life-threatening makeshift solutions on construction sites. Fleet managers should check whether sufficient certified personnel work platforms are available – retrofitting a telescopic loader with an approved work platform costs from €8,000 and quickly pays for itself through its versatility.