Home OSH Answers Safety Hazards Ladders Inspection When should you inspect ladders? What should you look for when inspecting any ladder? What other things should I look for when inspecting stepladders? What should you look for when inspecting extension ladders? What should you do after inspecting any ladder? What are some things you should not do after inspecting ladders? When should you inspect ladders? Inspect new ladders promptly upon receipt. Inspect ladders before each use. Check the condition of ladders that have been dropped or have fallen before using them again. What should you look for when inspecting any ladder? missing or loose steps or rungs (they are loose if you can move them by hand) damaged or worn non-slip feet loose nails, screws, bolts or nuts loose or faulty spreaders, locks, and other metal parts in poor repair rot, decay or warped rails in wooden ladders cracks and exposed fibreglass in fibreglass ladders cracked, split, worn or broken rails, braces, steps or rungs sharp edges on rails and rungs rough or splintered surfaces corrosion, rust, oxidization and excessive wear, especially on treads twisted or distorted rails. Check ladders for distortion by sighting along the rails. Using a twisted or bowed ladder is hazardous. missing identification labels What other things should I look for when inspecting stepladders? wobble loose or bent hinges and hinge spreaders broken stop on a hinge spreader What should you look for when inspecting extension ladders? loose, broken or missing extension locks defective locks that do not seat properly when ladder is extended sufficient lubrication of working parts defective cords, chains and ropes missing or defective pads or sleeves What should you do after inspecting any ladder? Tag any defective ladders and take them out of service. Clean fibreglass ladders every three months. Spray lightly with a clear lacquer or paste wax. Protect wooden ladders with a clear sealer or wood preservative. Replace worn or frayed ropes on extension ladders. Lubricate pulleys on extension ladders regularly. What are some things you should not do after inspecting ladders? Do not make temporary or makeshift repairs. Do not try to straighten or use bent or bowed ladders. Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety www.ccohs.ca Important Notices and Disclaimers: http://www.ccohs.ca/ccohs/important.html Inquiries and Client Services inquiries@ccohs.ca 1-800-668-4284 905-570-8094 Fax: 905-572-4500 135 Hunter Street East, Hamilton Ontario L8N 1M5 Document confirmed current on May 25, 2005 Document last updated on April 8, 1999 Copyright ©1997-2010 Canadian Centre for Occupational Health & Safety