Abstract: An access device for providing access between a lower level and an upper level the access device including a main body mounted for pivotal movement about a main body pivot mounting between an access position in which it enables access between the upper and lower levels and a stowed position in which a substantial part thereof is disposed above the main body pivot mounting; a drive mechanism operable to cause movement of the main body between the operative and stowed positions, the drive mechanism including a drive device and a link mechanism, the link mechanism including control link means mounted for pivotal movement about a control link pivot mounting, the control link being operatively connected to the drive device at a first connecting point, coupling link means operatively connecting the main body to the control link means, the coupling link means being connected to the main body at a second connecting point, the arrangement being such that actuation of the drive means causes the connection between the c