an access panel is shown in the present invention to provide easy and safe access to an attic space or elevated structure . the access panel is fully automatic . during opening , the access panel only uses gravitational forces for opening a cover . only during closing is the access panel motorized . the gravitational forces are used to both open the cover and extend the ladder sections , while the motor is only used to retract the latter sections and close the cover . a stow latch keeps the cover closed during non - use . a safety switch keeps the access panel from accidentally opening and the ladder sections from lowering if the stow latch is released . a mechanical lock keeps the cover open when the ladder sections have been lowered .