Ladder Inspection
What is a Ladder Inspection?
Ladder inspection is a safety-critical process that identifies visible defects, damage, or worn components on ladders before use. These inspections reduce fall risks and help teams comply with workplace safety requirements in construction, maintenance, and other high-risk industries.
Teams should inspect ladders daily and remove defective ladders promptly to prevent injury. Defects like loose or bent hinges, broken rails, frayed ropes, or missing or loose steps create immediate fall hazards. Inspecting extension ladders, step ladders, and portable ladders also involves checking hinge spreaders, ladder feet, ladder side rails, and all working parts.
What to Check During a Ladder Inspection
Inspectors must examine every ladder before it enters service. Each ladder should be checked for:
- Worn or frayed ropes
- Twisted or distorted rails
- Bent hinges
- Splintered surfaces
- Poor repair rot
- Temporary or makeshift repairs
- Loose bolts or screws
- Sharp edges on ladder rungs or rails
- Faulty spreaders or defective locks
Use sufficient lubrication on movable parts like pulleys, locks, and hinge spreaders. If you see corrosion, warped rails, or signs of excessive wear, mark the ladder for removal. Never climb a ladder that wobbles, has broken or missing safety feet, or shows signs of heat damage to metal parts.
Wooden, Fiberglass, and Aluminum Ladders
Wooden ladders require inspection for cracks, splintering, or signs of rot. Fiberglass ladders may show warped rails or delamination from exposure to excessive heat. Aluminum ladders are vulnerable to dents, corrosion, and impact damage to their metal parts. Regardless of material, if the ladder has broken rails, bent supports, or missing hardware, it should be replaced.
Common Hazards and Risks
A quick ladder inspection can prevent serious incidents. Hazards include:
- Ladders with loose parts near power lines
- Bow-shaped or bowed ladders
- Extension ladders that don’t lock properly
- Step ladders with broken hinge spreaders
- Equipment with visible cracks, exposed cords, or poor repairs
Teams should always climb using three points of contact, set up ladders at a safe angle, and work safely by confirming stability before leaving the ground.
Why Ladder Inspection Matters
Failing to inspect ladders exposes workers to fall injuries and OSHA violations. Inspections help teams detect faults early and eliminate hazards at the source. This simple step supports a culture of safety and ensures all equipment on-site is ready for the job.
Keep Your Teams Safe and Accountable
Safety Mojo makes a ladder inspection fast, accurate, and reliable. With customizable inspection forms, voice-powered inputs, and real-time dashboards, teams can identify defects, track repair actions, and work with confidence.